Ambassador Program

This popular committee consists of volunteers of member companies that represent Commerce Lexington by helping to educate members on benefits, programs, and events, as well as serve as a liaison between Commerce Lexington and its membership. Ambassadors also represent Commerce Lexington at a variety of events, from ribbon cuttings and grand openings to networking functions and open houses.  To find out more about this committee or how to apply, contact Kristie Woodrum.

2023 AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE:
Jennifer Ambs, The Lafayette
Shelby Bass, The Willows at Hamburg
Shawn Blades, Truist
Brandy Borchers, Builders Exchange of KY
Sheila Carmack, Central Bank and Trust
Francisco Castro, JCC Insurance Group
Erin Caudill, Wise Staffing Group
Nicole Corbin, Studio46 Media
Emily Cowles, Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs
Courtney Desrochers, Marshall Pediatric Therapy
Cheryl Eadens, Bluegrass Office Systems
Vicki Evans, TOPS Marketing Group
Lesley Fluke, Field and Main Bank
Caroline Francis, UK Alumni Career Services
Mary Lynn Garrett, Mid-American Rare Coin Gallery
Lisa Gibson, Dynamic Restoration
Jamie Hall, WDKY FOX56
Melynda Jamison, CASA of Lexington
Matthew Lockaby, Lockaby PLLC
Jennifer Longworth, Bourbon Barrel Podcasting
Gina Miller, Forcht Bank
Jeff Morrett, Parsons & Howard Insurance Group  (2023 Committee Chair)
Crystal Newton, 46Solutions
Paul Peters, Rector-Hayden
Becky Trimble, Central Bank Center
Mark Wiemer, WesBanco Bank

2022 AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Crystal Newton, 46Solutions

​      Formed in 2019 when the I.T. department branched off from its parent company Davis H. Elliot, 46Solutions is a local, 100% employee-owned technology company specializing in managed I.T. services, cybersecurity, and audio/video integration. As the marketing manager, Crystal Newton is responsible for the development and execution of marketing communication plans, budgets, media, and community services.  
      Newton said, “I was drawn to the challenge and excitement of building the 46Solutions brand and lead generation campaigns from scratch. And now, almost three years later, my team is family.”
      A native of Bardstown, Crystal moved to Lexington to attend Transylvania University. “I quickly fell in love with this big town/small city and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else,” she said. “Lexington has provided me with friendships, love, and more opportunity than anyone would deserve.  It’s home.”
      As a volunteer with Commerce Lexington for many years, Crystal has seen first-hand how the organization helps local businesses.  She added, “My role as an Ambassador helps to strengthen relationships between members and the organization, to facilitate referral partnerships, and to provide a platform for business exposure within our community.”
      “Commerce Lexington is a resource, advocate, and connector for business,” Crystal said of her involvement. “What started as a way to be part of my local community has developed into a network of professional partnerships, referral opportunities,  and fantastic friendships.” 

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Shawn Blades, Vice President, Truist

​      A native of Pikeville, Kentucky, Shawn Blades moved to Lexington after attending Eastern Kentucky University. In 2005, she decided to make a career change, and that search for the perfect fit led her to Truist (formerly BB&T).  She said, “Truist fosters true commitment to its teammates and the community, and that allows me to meld my personal and professional passion of helping others to better serve our clients and communities.”
      In her role as Vice President/Cluster Leader, Shawn specializes in small business and retail lending, as well as managing two branch locations here in the Lexington market.  She also serves as the State Co-Chair for Truist’s Business Resource Group serving veterans and first responders. 
      She added, “Serving as an Ambassador is such an honor.  Not only has the program offered me the opportunity to learn about businesses and their owners here in Lexington, but it has also created a strong professional network and created lifelong friendships.  It is an honor to speak to business owners that give 110% every day to make their business and this city so successful. Sharing all that Commerce Lexington offers our businesses is a tremendous way to help our members find success in today’s fast-paced environment.  Reaching out to members one-to-one and finding ways to contribute to their success is my number one goal."