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.

2024 AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE:
Francisco Castro, JCC Insurance Group, LLC
Nicole Corbin, Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc.
April Corwin, Forcht Bank
Alicia Cox, Stock Yards Bank
Ginger Davis, Churchill McGee
Brandy Drakeford, Xooker
Vicki Evans, TOPS Marketing
Caroline Francis, University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services
Jamie Hall, Don Franklin Auto Mall  (2024 Committee Chair)
Lara Justice, VisitLEX
Trey McCallie, Realty One Group Bluegrass
Josh McCurn, Haymaker Company
Laura Mobley-Corn, Express Employment Professionals
Jeff Morrett, Parsons & Howard Insurance Group
Crystal Newton, 46Solutions
Dan Noel, Men In Kilts Lexington
Susie Patrick, WDKY FOX 56
Jessica Pfister, Heartland Payroll & HR
Alisa Rose, Nimlok-Kentucky
Mike Sypolt, LW Office Furniture Warehouse
Becky Trimble, Central Bank Center
Kelly Webb, Houchens Insurance Group
Mark Weimer, WesBanco Bank

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Laura Mobley-Corn, Express Employment Professionals

      Originally from Illinois, Laura Mobley-Corn relocated to Lexington via Michigan in 2022 when she became the owner of Express Employment Professionals, which provides a full range of employment solutions that include full-time, temporary, and part-time employment in a wide range of positions. 
      Laura said, “Helping people find jobs and supporting local businesses is at the heart of what I do, and I’m thrilled to be part of such a wonderful community.”  Her journey into staffing began by accident back in 1996, but it didn’t take long for her to discover how much she enjoyed it. “There’s nothing more rewarding than helping someone land a job they’re excited about or finding the perfect employee for a company,” she added. 
      The pandemic changed how people think about work, and Laura and her team have adapted to these shifts. She said, “Through it all, our commitment to providing excellent service remains unwavering. We’re here to make a difference, one job and one business at a time.”
       As a business owner, Laura believes it’s crucial to be involved in the community.  She added, “That’s why I’m proud to serve on Commerce Lexington’s Ambassador Committee, where I can give back and help Lexington continue to grow. It’s incredibly rewarding! My fellow ambassadors are a dynamic group of individuals, and I’m privileged to be part of this team.”
      She added, "One of my favorite aspects of Lexington is its strong sense of community, especially at events like business mixers and ribbon cuttings. There’s something truly special about coming together to celebrate new businesses and connect with other business owners."

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Francisco Castro, JCC Insurance Group

      Francisco Castro got his start in the insurance industry over 17 years ago and soon after he realized he was good at it and loved helping people. He first worked on life and health policies, and later, a friend introduced him to the world of commercial insurance. 
      In 2017, Francisco joined his twin brother’s firm, JCC Accounting Solutions, moving from Texas to Lexington to help run the office. In 2018, they moved to a new building, streamlined their processes, and increased the number of clients. Because of demand, they formed their own independent insurance agency after Francisco moved his licenses to Kentucky, and he began focusing solely on insurance. 
     The JCC Group offers accounting, insurance, and IT consulting services. The JCC Insurance Group was recently named the top independent agency with Liberty Mutual Commercial lines in Kentucky and number two in the nation under the Smart Choice umbrella. Francisco said, “We have achieved an incredible level of success serving the growing Hispanic market.”  He also said it’s important to help them understand all the different aspects of the insurance policies.
     Francisco said, “As an ambassador, we constantly meet business owners who have the same dreams and desires to see our city prosper. Commerce Lexington is a great organization where people can network, meet like-minded people, and give back to our community.”

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Ginger L. Davis, Churchill McGee

​      Ginger Davis works for Churchill McGee, a regional contractor with projects in Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Indiana. She started as the director of talent acquisition and is now transitioning to a new role as director of customer relations and business development to help support current customers, generate new business, and continue leading the marketing department. 
      The company has seen substantial growth over the last decade, adding the D9 Interiors Division in 2013 for things like metal framing, insulations, dry wall, and acoustical ceilings and then the C3 Concrete Division in 2016, which does work such as constructing foundations, flat concrete, site work, demolition, and more. Over the past 16 months, Churchill McGee has increased its employee headcount by more than 62%. In 2020, it was named Commerce Lexington’s Small Business of the Year.
     Ginger has participated in many Commerce Lexington events and programs over the years.  She said, “I believe that being involved with Commerce Lexington is beneficial on a company and individual level. As a company, it helps to enhance credibility and increase company presence in the community. As an individual, it helps with networking and professional development.”
       She said she loves the camaraderie among the members of the Ambassador Committee – not only at the scheduled events, but at other community events as well.

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Trey McCallie, Realty One Group Bluegrass

       Originally from Roanoke, Virginia, Trey McCallie has been in real estate for 20 years. He started his career in Richmond (VA), and then became a managing broker for a firm in Blacksburg (VA).  He said, “I was attracted to the real estate industry because of my entrepreneurial drive and some career testing that pointed me toward it. Realty One Group approached me about opening the first Kentucky office in 2019.  I was very impressed with their branding, marketing, ‘Coolture,’ and overall energy.  It was much different than any other real estate brand I had seen.”
      Trey is responsible for recruiting, training, compliance and being a resource for other agents. He also works in production, assisting buyers and sellers with their real estate goals.  “We are challenged every day to serve our clients and I have the additional role of serving our agents as they are my clients as well,” he added.
      Trey said he really enjoys getting together with the other ambassadors and attending ribbon cuttings. “It's exciting to see a new business launch in our community and support what they are doing.”
      He added, “I have built so many powerful relationships through Commerce Lexington, including people who are great advisors and friends.” Although Trey is new to the Ambassador Committee this year, he said, “I enjoy our group of Ambassadors. We are all becoming fast friends. They are positive go-getters that really care about the community.”

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Nicole Corbin, Davis H. Elliot Company

​      As the marketing and communications manager for Davis H. Elliot Company, Nicole Corbin oversees marketing, advertising, events, and external affairs. She said, “I am passionate about building brand awareness, event planning, and community involvement. At Elliot, I get to pursue everything I'm passionate about while maintaining excellence for the Elliot brand and its family of brands.”
     A 100-percent employee-owned company, Elliot is a comprehensive electrical contractor, focusing on overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating, and industrial/commercial services.  Over the years, Elliot has broadened its portfolio to include solar, damage prevention and reclamation, electric vehicle charging, event and video production, managed IT services, and a diverse array of businesses within the Elliot family.
      Nicole said, “Being involved with Commerce Lexington is important because of the endless networking opportunities. I love getting to know people, learning about their businesses, and helping others make meaningful connections.”  
     She said her favorite event to attend is Business Link, because of the opportunity to connect with fellow business professionals in a relaxed atmosphere. Nicole also highly recommends participating in one of the leadership development programs, citing the lasting friendships she formed as a member of the 2020-21 Leadership Central Kentucky class.

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Kelly Webb, Houchens Insurance Group

       ​Kelly Webb works as an employee benefits producer with Houchens Insurance Group (HIG). HIG strives to bring their clients and communities superior partnerships and insurance solutions so they can protect what matters most to them. With employee benefits being one of the top-line items in a company’s budget, her goal is to help minimize the cost and risk for her clients. 
       Kelly said, "In my role, I identify opportunities to engage employers and their employees in health and wellness programs and initiatives as well as offer a comprehensive benefits package for employers to help attract and retain top talent.”
       Having previously worked for a local hospital system, she understands how complex health benefits programs can be.  She added, “I chose to transition to Houchens Insurance Group to help employers and their employees navigate the health care system.”
       "I am passionate about helping others in the community,” she said. “Being an Ambassador with Commerce Lexington allows me to connect and develop relationships and partnerships with businesses and leaders in the community.”
       Kelly currently serves on the board for Bluegrass SHRM as Wellness Director and has served in various roles, most recently as president. She is a 2022 graduate of Leadership Central Kentucky and also serves on the board of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals as the Co-Programs Chair.

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Caroline Francis, UK Alumni Career Services

      As the director of the University of Kentucky Alumni Career Services, Caroline Francis is tasked with keeping abreast of employment opportunities and workplace trends, while developing career-related programming for her team to carry out. She also coaches individual career clients and writes regular columns for the UK Alumni magazine. In 2013, she co-founded the Central Kentucky Job Club, which is still going strong. 
      UK was one of the first schools in the country to offer designated alumni career counseling and related programming to help people proactively manage their careers throughout their lifespan. Her team also helps employers promote their job leads. Caroline said, “I am passionate about helping people identify their strengths, make successful career transitions, and reach their full potential.”
      A native Lexingtonian, Caroline said, “I love this city and feel vested in helping the region remain a positive place for people to work and live. I enjoy being able to support the businesses of local Commerce Lexington members.”
      She added that being involved in Commerce Lexington has allowed her to get to know more employers and leaders in the community and the relationships built will additionally benefit others that she meets in her work. “The collaboration and encouragement that I have seen between employers and business owners is impressive.”

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Mary Lynn Garrett, Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries

       Mary Lynn Garrett works for Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries, which was founded in 1984 in Lexington. It maintains one of the finest inventories of United States coinage with an emphasis on quality and value for the grade and price. Its sister company, Mid-American Ancients, offers the largest selection of wholesale ancient numismatic products in the country.  She said, "We have a wide selection from Greek, Roman and Byzantine Kingdoms and Empires. We offer free advice on the sale and disposition of estates and collections."
       Mary Lynn has worked as an administrative manager for 30 years and is responsible for overseeing sales, inventory, and daily operations. She travels all over the world attending coin shows. Currently, she is serving as a governor for the American Numismatic Association in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
       A native of Anchorage, Kentucky, Mary Lynn made her way to Lexington when she attended the University of Kentucky. Her community involvement includes the Living Arts & Science Center, Baby Health Service, and the Lexington Philharmonic.  She is married to Jeff Garrett and has one daughter and one stepson.
       As a first-year member of the Ambassador Committee, Mary Lynn said, “Being involved in Commerce Lexington has allowed me the opportunity to share the benefits the organization offers to local businesses. The network of professionals within Commerce Lexington are essential components to our community. It has been my pleasure to serve in this role.”

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Emily H. Cowles, Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs

      Emily Cowles is a Partner at Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs, and leads the firm’s Real Estate & Lending Service Team.  She has been practicing law for twenty years and specializes in commercial real estate, financing, and transactions on the buyer and seller sides, as well as on behalf of the lender. Emily has a wide range of experience in real estate and lending ranging from litigation, receiverships, loan restructurings and enforcement, to agriculture, construction, development, commercial lease transactions and short-term rentals.    
      The Wyatt firm maintains an active national practice with five offices throughout Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana, and traces its roots back more than 200 years. Emily said, “Our structure of nine service teams and industry-focused practice groups enables our lawyers to provide the most efficient and effective delivery of services for excellent value.”
      Born and raised in Nashville, Emily settled here with her husband and has now lived in Lexington for over 25 years, where they are raising two teenage sons. Emily is very involved in the Lexington community, serving on three boards and volunteering for several nonprofits. Emily said it’s imperative for her to be active in Commerce Lexington, because it supports the very people and businesses that she works with every day.  Emily is a graduate of Leadership Lexington and has attended numerous Commerce Lexington events over the years.  As a first-year Ambassador, she said serving as the personal liaison for members is both a privilege and honor.  

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Shelby Bass, The Willows at Hamburg

      Since 2017, Shelby Bass has been at The Willows at Hamburg, a Trilogy Health Services facility offering a full continuum of premier senior care.  She said, “I have always had a love for seniors and caring for the elderly, and that passion has continued to grow.”  
      As the community service representative, Shelby is responsible for fostering and maintaining relationships with physicians, other healthcare professionals, and community outreach partners that help guide seniors and families through the process of moving to The Willows. 
      A native of Johnson County in Eastern Kentucky, Shelby relocated to Lexington in 2015 when her husband’s schooling and work brought them here. She said, “My favorite thing about the Bluegrass is the love for the area and how proud people are to say where they live and work.”
      Shelby said it’s important for her to be active in Commerce Lexington for several reasons. She said her involvement helps her grow roots here, support the many great businesses Lexington has to offer, and break stereotypes about long-term care facilities. “This is my first year as an Ambassador, but so far my favorite thing is meeting new people and learning about different businesses and organizations within the Bluegrass,” she added.

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Erin Caudill, Wise Staffing Group

        Wise Staffing Group is a family-owned and operated business that started in 1987 in Tupelo, Mississippi. It has grown to be a #1 provider of staffing services due to its excellent customer service and even more impressive rates – with over 70 offices nationwide – and growing! 
       Erin Caudill has been in staffing sales for several years but was given an opportunity to open a new office in Lexington last April with the company. As the Area Sales Manager, she is responsible for overseeing the overall sales growth and daily operations of the local branches. 
      She said, “I’ve always enjoyed helping people, but in this industry I’m able to help more than ever. I can help applicants find gainful employment, while helping employers find employees that will last. We are constantly searching for new employers to partner with because our employee base is growing daily.”
      A native of Versailles who still lives there, Erin loves being involved and active with Commerce Lexington. “It has allowed me to grow the Wise Staffing name in Central Kentucky," she said. "It has also been beneficial to me personally, because of the many connections I’ve made – that have turned into friendships!”
      She added, “I have really enjoyed the opportunity to meet local business owners and visit businesses that I didn’t even know were in this area. I was recently able to help a newly-hired individual navigate the Commerce Lexington website and inform him of events locally that he wasn’t aware of but very excited about.”

AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT: Lesley Fluke, Field & Main Bank

      ​Field & Main Bank is a full service bank predominantly owned by a family foundation whose mission is to invest in the communities in which the bank is located. As the Regional President for Central Kentucky, Lesley Fluke is responsible for the daily operations of the bank’s Central Kentucky offices, including lending, deposit operations, and client services.  She also serves on the corporate leadership team and assists in the development of long-term strategic initiatives, and works closely with Advisory Board members. 
      Lesley said, “I am very fortunate that I still have the opportunity to generate new commercial loan and deposit opportunities, as well as manage a portfolio of commercial client relationships.  The most rewarding part of my position is building relationships with clients and staff over the years.  I love coaching and helping others obtain goals they thought were out of reach.” 
      Lesley said her interest in a career in finance came at an early age. She said, “I grew up in a household that struggled financially.  I realized in college that a career in banking would allow me to pursue my passion to help others while using my math skills to help individuals and business owners understand their finances and plan for their future well-being.”    
      “Volunteering as an Ambassador allows me to help business owners gain more benefit from their membership,” she added.  “Commerce Lexington provides so many opportunities to its members to promote their organizations, access valuable market research, build communities, save money with discounts, and stay informed of important local news.” 

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.”