Entrepreneurial Spirit Shines at the 2025 East Kentucky Leadership Conference

May 01, 2025

by Photos by Les Nicholson

The 37th Annual East Kentucky Leadership Conference, held April 24–25 at the EKU Manchester Regional Campus, successfully brought together innovators, community leaders, and changemakers from across the region, all under the theme “The Entrepreneurial Mindset.” The event served as a dynamic platform for exploring ways to drive innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth in Eastern Kentucky.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear set the tone for the two-day conference with an inspiring keynote address on Thursday evening, April 24, where he emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship in shaping a brighter future for Appalachian Kentucky. His remarks resonated deeply with the crowd, which was eager to dive into the sessions, workshops, and discussions that followed.

The conference featured an impressive lineup of topics designed to address some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the region. Sessions included:

“Overcoming Barriers to Entry: Resources for Entrepreneurs” – Offering strategies and resources to help startups overcome common obstacles.

“Youth Entrepreneurship: Sowing the Seeds of Entrepreneurship” – Focusing on the next generation of innovators and ways to foster entrepreneurial skills among youth.

“Rising Waters, Rising Opportunities: Innovating Through Disaster Resilience” – A timely discussion on building resilience in the face of natural disasters.

“Social Entrepreneurship: Making an Impact” – Exploring how businesses can create social change while also thriving economically.

“Breaking Through: What’s Holding Back Entrepreneurship in Eastern Kentucky?” – A frank look at regional barriers to economic growth.

“Old Homeplace Farm – Modern Day Farm Success” – A closer look at how farming can be a model for entrepreneurial success in the modern world.

On Friday, Gayle Manchin, federal co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission, delivered a special luncheon address, where she discussed federal partnerships and the ways the region is benefiting from federal support for innovation and entrepreneurship. Later that day, Gary Schoeniger, founder of the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative, led an intensive workshop titled “The Entrepreneurial Mindset,” which explored the mindset shifts necessary for success in today’s rapidly changing economy.

One of the key highlights of the event was the WYMT-hosted East Kentucky Leadership Awards Showcase, which took place Thursday evening in the EKU Manchester auditorium. The awards recognized eight individuals and one organization for their exceptional contributions to the region. Honorees included:

Neil Middleton, long-time WYMT-TV broadcaster and businessman, who received the Tony Turner Award for his enduring efforts on behalf of the region.

Quintissa Peake, a health advocate and member of the University of Kentucky Alumni Board, who won the Carolyn Sunday Award for her extraordinary work in promoting understanding, inclusion, and social justice.

Bill Richardson, founder of Appalshop and a key figure in Appalachian arts and culture, who received the Arts and Culture Award.

Don Estep, the former publisher of the Corbin News Journal, who was honored with the Media and Technology Award.

Dr. Aaron Thompson, President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, who was recognized with the Public Individual Award.

Vanda Rice, co-founder of Stay in Clay-Project Hope, who won the Private Individual Award for her dedication to community-driven social change.

Jackson Walters, a standout student from Bell County High School, who received the Youth Leadership Award.

The Clay County Historical Society, honored with the Organization Award for its work in preserving and promoting local history.

In addition to the awards, attendees had the opportunity to network, explore the Clay County Historical Society Museum and Legend Hall, and enjoy a celebratory banquet hosted by the East Kentucky Leadership Foundation, which closed out the conference on a high note.

The 2025 East Kentucky Leadership Conference proved to be an invaluable opportunity for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. It highlighted the incredible potential of Eastern Kentucky, demonstrating that with the right entrepreneurial mindset, the region is poised for continued growth and success.