EMERGE 2024 SPEAKERS

Brett Bibb is currently the Director of Marketing at Commerce Lexington. Brett is a graduate of the 2019 Leadership Lexington Class, Co-founder and Vice President of Lexington’s DiverCity Festival, and two-time Chair of the EMERGE Conference Steering Committee.

Tiffany Brown serves as the first Chief Equity and Implementation Officer for the City of Lexington charged with building out and implementing the recommendations on the Mayor's Commission on Race, Justice and Equality.

Raquel E. Carter is the principal broker and CEO of Guide Realty, Inc. She is also on the board of the Urban League of Lexington and Lexington For Everyone, a non-profit board established to promote jobs, homes and equity for all of Lexington’s residents.

Danielle Tharp Clore is the executive director/CEO of Kentucky Nonprofit Network. Danielle's current community service work includes public policy committee member, National Council of Nonprofits and advisory board member of First Nonprofits.

Almeta Dellagnolo is the creative force and owner behind Babaloo Jewelry, a fusion of indigenous tradition and contemporary design. Her commitment to eco-responsibility and ethical manufacturing has turned her pandemic-inspired hobby into a self-sustaining business.

Betsy Dexter is the Executive Director of The Business & Education Network (BEN) at Commerce Lexington. BEN’s mission is to create, attract and sustain a globally skilled workforce to meet the needs of the region's existing and target industries.

Laura Farnsworth is an event production professional with nearly 20 years of experience with public events and is currently the Director of Development & Events at Downtown Lexington Partnership.

Vince Gabbert is the President of Lexington Sporting Club. He also holds the position of Vice-President of Strategic Initiatives and Legislative Affairs for Keeneland, a significant institution in the sports industry.

Amy Glasscock is the program director for innovation and emerging issues with the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO). She has 20 years of experience in policy analysis, government relations, legislative and regulatory policy and educational management and training.

Gina Greathouse has been working in the field of economic development for over 30 years and currently serves as the Executive Vice President for Economic Development for Commerce Lexington.

Frank Hall is an entrepreneur who has led multiple business ventures. He is a partner in FMWB, LLC that owns The Social VeganTM, a restaurant and bar. Mr. Hall has a wealth of experience in pivoting, expanding businesses, branding, and marketing. He is also a mentor to many small businesses and for youth by providing them with life skills needed to be successful.

Michael Halligan serves as CEO for God’s Pantry Food Bank. He is accountable for stewardship with responsibility for leadership, management and administration to deliver the mission, vision, goals and objectives of the organization.

As a Partner and Founder of Black Mountain Management, LLC, David Helmers actively engages in artist management and event production in the dynamic music industry, notably creating the Railbird Music Festival and producing two additional boutique music festivals in Kentucky.

Dr. Amanda L. Higgins is the executive director of the Lexington History Museum.

Andi Johnson serves as the Chief Policy Officer and Director of Regional Engagement for Commerce Lexington.

Dale Morgan currently serves on the Kentucky Commission for Small Business Advocacy and Innovation. He’s the primary facilitator of the Money $mart for Small Business curriculum administered by Commerce Lexington.

Kaelyn Query is an award-winning entrepreneur, based in Lexington, KY and CEO of Lexington Event Company. She is an author, guest speaker, and lecturer and she serves on several local boards.

Toa Green is the Owner/Operator of Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream, a premium ice cream company in Lexington. Crank & Boom’s mission is to Create Joy, Ignite Laughter, and Inspire Compassion.

Jamie brings a wealth of experience and expertise as a Strategist in Accenture's Health & Public Service practice, with a 15-year career dedicated to working alongside state and local governments. She is also a past-chair of the EMERGE conference.

Co-Founder of Kismet Marketing, Emily Whitley is an advertising executive and business development professional. She has led marketing strategy and championed growth of companies for 20 years.

Ryan Worthen is the Director of Marketing and Customer Experience for Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance (KEMI). His experience spans a broad range of business functions, including advertising, business development, graphic and web design, marketing, public relations, strategic planning and video production.