Leadership Kentucky Now Accepting Applications for BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026

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Leadership Kentucky Now Accepting Applications for BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026

Posted on: April 6, 2026

Leadership Kentucky is now accepting applications for the BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026. Since its launch in 2019, nearly 300 young professionals have graduated from the program that equips them to make a lasting impact on their communities and organizations.

BRIGHT Kentucky is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. This life-changing program will drive them to innovate, collaborate, and advance community and economic development. BRIGHT Kentucky engages keen, entrepreneurial minds from all backgrounds to offer non-partisan, ethical leadership training, and expanded networks designed especially for residents of the 54 Kentucky counties of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). BRIGHT Kentucky is made possible through private funding from the Whitaker Foundation, Kentucky Power Foundation, and others.

“Leadership Kentucky is pleased to have the opportunity to welcome the next BRIGHT Kentucky class this summer, developing the next generation of leaders for Kentucky’s Appalachian Region,” said Janice Way, President and CEO of Leadership Kentucky. “BRIGHT Kentucky works in collaboration with local leadership programs, chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, colleges/universities, and Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) to recruit candidates, create programming, and develop meaningful discussions. This program is not competitive with any existing programs, so BRIGHT is a win for all in the region.”

BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026 will gather in July in Berea and will travel to Adair County and Russellville in August, Ashland and Morehead in September, Pikeville in October, and Middlesboro, Pineville and Harlan in November. Five months of three-day sessions throughout the Appalachian Region provide opportunities for aspiring leaders to connect with peers, develop leadership skills, and gain inspiration to create positive impact in their communities.

The BRIGHT program is designed for young professionals who live and work in one of Kentucky’s ARC counties. Each participant is thoughtfully selected to ensure a broad representation across geographic, ethnic, and demographic sectors.

If you or someone you know is interested in being a member of the BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026, the application form is available online at leadershipky.org. All BRIGHT Kentucky Class of 2026 applications will be due on May 18.

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