Leadership Kentucky, Inc.

The sun shines bright on our old Kentucky home and it has us looking forward to kicking off the Class of 2025 this summer! Do you know a talented and engaged leader who is focused on improving our state? If so, nominate them, or yourself, at https://buff.ly/4aUwrsZ TODAY!

More from our LKY Class of 2024 on their experience with the program! Remember nominations for the Class of 2025 are open! Nominate yourself or another strong leader you know at https://buff.ly/4aUwrsZ.

Since it's raining again in Kentucky, we decided it would be the perfect time to show off pictures from the Leadership Kentucky Alumni trip to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji! The Land Down Under offered a mix of stunningly beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, unique wildlife, and rich cultural experiences and the LKY group soaked it all in. When Leadership Kentucky presented this opportunity to alumni, it was described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It certainly held true to its billing! Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji were more than just destinations—they offered an adventure filled with natural beauty, culture, friendships, and unforgettable moments. The opportunity to share this experience with members of the LKY family made it even more worthwhile and meaningful! Visit our website at https://buff.ly/41gvd89 to read more about their amazing adventure!

Since it's Valentine's Day, we want to tell you about a person who is full of love and light. Well, two people actually. Each Leadership Kentucky class has the pleasure of honoring one of their own with the Lisa Murrell Award. Dr. Murrell was a member of the LKY Class of 2008 who inspired her classmates with her compassionate, kind, and joyful spirit. Her family, friends, and classmates lost Lisa in 2011 after a valiant battle with cancer, but she is remembered each year with the presentation of this award. The 2024 Lisa Murrell Award Winner is James Evanson. We might have known that James was meant for the Lisa Murrell Award early on by looking at his bio in the class directory. It says, “You may know James for his positive attitude and motivational quotes. He aspires to incorporate as many of these qualities into his servant leadership style.” James’s bright and compassionate personality is a true testament to his life experience. Originally from South Sudan, he came to Louisville in 2003 with his wife and two young daughters after being nearly killed by his own people. When they arrived, he was emotionally and physically bruised, disoriented, and angry about being forced to start over. James ultimately found inspiration for a new outlook through community. He is committed to service and is involved with and volunteers for numerous nonprofit organizations to give back to the community that empowered his bright perspective. His LKY 2024 classmates said of James in their nomination for the Lisa Murrell Award: “James goes around speaking to everyone each month and is constantly smiling.” “He is always positive, displays enthusiasm, and pays it forward.” “James has connected with everyone and their passion for the community is unmatched.” “He has overcome so many obstacles to not only become a citizen, but a leader in his community. His positivity and endurance are inspiring. May we all be a little more like James – kind, helpful, respectful and intentional.”

Each year at the Alumni Luncheon, Leadership Kentucky recognizes an outstanding Kentuckian who bravely lights the way for others with the Flame of Excellence Award. We are thrilled to name Steven Trager as our 2024 recipient. “Leadership Kentucky is proud to honor Steven Trager with the Flame of Excellence Award for his significant work toward improving our state,” said Janice Way, President and CEO of Leadership Kentucky. “Impactful leadership comes from those who make conscious efforts to support their communities and Steve certainly exemplifies that through his work, not only with Republic Bank and the Trager Family Foundation, but also with organizations across the Commonwealth.” Read more about Steve’s commitment to service and other Flame of Excellence Award recipients on our website, www.leadershipky.org/news. You can also visit the website to purchase your tickets to the 23rd Annual Alumni Luncheon and join us to celebrate with Mr. Trager!

At Leadership Kentucky, we know that the LKY experience is impactful, thought provoking, and eye opening, but don't just take our word for it! Take a look at what the Leadership Kentucky Class of 2024 had to say about their time with us. We will be sharing their thoughts each week, so stay tuned for more of what they're saying! If you, or someone you know, would be an incredible candidate for the LKY Class of 2025, use this link to nominate a leader TODAY! https://buff.ly/4aUwrsZ

Since 1985, Leadership Kentucky has been bringing together leaders from across the Commonwealth, inspiring them to improve their state and local communities. Now, over 2,500 individuals are proud #alumni of Leadership Kentucky. Your annual membership as an alumnus is an invaluable opportunity to learn, grow, and give back. With your membership, you have continued access to community leaders while expanding your professional network to every member of the LKY family. You will be invited to motivational and enlightening events to help you deepen your roots as a community leader and encourage continued civic engagement. Renew your alumni membership TODAY! https://buff.ly/4g8TP6I

We are excited to invite you to the 23rd Annual Alumni Luncheon and Flame of Excellence Award Presentation! This engaging event offers a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with fellow members of the #bestclassever, expand your network of friends, and catch up on the latest from Leadership Kentucky. We hope you will join us! Date: March 25, 2025 Time: 11:00 am - 1:30 pm Location: Kentucky Derby Museum, Oaks Garden Terrace Please register by: March 14, 2025 Register here: https://buff.ly/4aapVh6

You are cordially invited to the 23rd Annual Leadership Kentucky Alumni Luncheon and Flame of Excellence Award presentation! Join us on March 25, 2025 at the Kentucky Derby Museum for a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with classmates and friends and be part of what's next for LKY! Purchase your tickets TODAY at https://buff.ly/4aapVh6

Do you know an exceptional leader that should be in the next "best class ever?" Leadership Kentucky is accepting nominations for the LKY Class of 2025! Visit https://buff.ly/4fIT4Bi to nominate someone today!