Leadership Lexington
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ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
Leadership Lexington has been operating as the premiere leadership development program for professionals in the greater Lexington area for more than 40 years. With a competitive application and selection process, the program allows just fifty class members annually. Leadership Lexington consists of ten, informative day-sessions which are organized and hosted by local leaders. These day sessions help to broaden perspectives and provide an increased understanding of community dynamics, signature industries, and public issues. Each class completes up to four community-based projects during the duration of the program. Projects are pitched and selected by the program participants at an immersive opening retreat. |
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MISSION: The program gives participants the opportunity to better understand our city and to prepare for the challenges it faces by meeting with and learning from today’s leaders. Leadership Lexington is an educational opportunity that broadens perspectives and allows participants to gain increased understanding of community dynamics and public issues.
Applications for the 2024-2025 Leadership Lexington Class are closed.
For more information about the Leadership Lexington program check out the FAQs below or contact Tyra Harbut, Director of Leadership Development, at (859) 226-1610.
For more information about the Leadership Lexington program check out the FAQs below or contact Tyra Harbut, Director of Leadership Development, at (859) 226-1610.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be employed by firms or organizations that are active members of Commerce Lexington. Non-employed community volunteers may also apply.
What is the time commitment to participate?
Leadership Lexington is an eleven-month program that starts with an overnight Orientation Retreat in August (Tentatively scheduled for August 1-2, 2024 at Boone Tavern in Berea. The program then consists of one full-day session lasting eight hours, once a month from September until June. The Orientation retreat is mandatory.
Class participants are required to attend 80% of the day sessions in order to ‘graduate’ from the program.
Each year the class will complete up to four community projects. Project work is typically completed outside of the day sessions, which makes the Leadership Lexington experience a significant time commitment.
Class participants are required to attend 80% of the day sessions in order to ‘graduate’ from the program.
Each year the class will complete up to four community projects. Project work is typically completed outside of the day sessions, which makes the Leadership Lexington experience a significant time commitment.
What is the timeline for applications?
Applications for the 2024-2025 leadership class opened on April 15 and closed on May 15. Applicants will be notified by the end of June on acceptance.
What goes into the selection process?
Once the application window closes, a Steering Committee comprised of Leadership Lexington Alumni score the applications. The program is incredibly competitive, receiving more than 100 applications annually. Multiple steering committee members score each application based on applicant background, leadership experience, reason for participation, personal insights, and letters of support. Once all applications are scored, the committee compiles the applications in order of highest to lowest score and discuss any discrepancies in scoring. The class is selected by a combination of the scores given and the discussion that follows.
The makeup of each year’s class is intended to reflect the ethnic and cultural diversity of our city.
Typically, only one individual from each organization will be accepted per year.
The makeup of each year’s class is intended to reflect the ethnic and cultural diversity of our city.
Typically, only one individual from each organization will be accepted per year.
How much does it cost?
Program cost is $2,000.
MEMBER TESTIMONIAL: |
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Hear more about the impact Leadership Lexington from past participants.
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MEMBER TESTIMONIAL: |
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Leadership Lexington Application Tutorial
Learn from Selection Committee members about what they are looking for when they score Leadership Lexington applications. This video will provide guidance for you on each section of the application as well as answering general questions we often receive from applicants.
Learn from Selection Committee members about what they are looking for when they score Leadership Lexington applications. This video will provide guidance for you on each section of the application as well as answering general questions we often receive from applicants.
2024-25 PROGRAM SPONSORS:
PRESENTED BY:
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
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ORIENTATION SPONSOR:
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HISTORY SPONSOR:
NAME BADGE SPONSOR:
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GOLD SPONSORS:
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Attention Leadership Lexington Alums: Help Us Stay Connected to You
The Leadership Lexington Alumni Association is ramping up! In order to make this association a success, we need all alums to send in any updated contact information. If you are a graduate of Leadership Lexington, please send your updated information via e-mail to Dawn Flickinger. Find out more at www.leadershiplexingtonalumni.com.
The Leadership Lexington Alumni Association is ramping up! In order to make this association a success, we need all alums to send in any updated contact information. If you are a graduate of Leadership Lexington, please send your updated information via e-mail to Dawn Flickinger. Find out more at www.leadershiplexingtonalumni.com.
Education Day Session photo by Mahan Multimedia.
LATEST SESSION: Class Members Explore Community's Educational Opportunities
Recap by Rachel Skinner, Bluegrass Greensource
Leadership is not defined by age, but by a commitment to challenge, inspire, and serve others. The 2024-25 Leadership Lexington Education Day powerfully reaffirmed this truth. As we engaged with young leaders, they reminded us of the boundless potential that exists in the next generation. The energy and vision of these emerging leaders gave a renewed hope for the future, while reminding me that leadership transcends age.
Our day began at Frederick Douglass High School (FDHS), where Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent, Demetrus Liggins; FDHS Executive Principal, Lester Diaz; and FDHS Academy Coach, Jamie Mills, warmly welcomed us. Academy Coach Mills provided information about the various academies and pathways offered to students at FDHS. This system of intentional learning aims to make education more relevant by providing students with clear pathways to follow within specialized academies. By exposing students to real-world experiences from their very first year at school, such as visiting college campuses and seeing higher-level classes, students become empowered to discover their personal interests and begin defining their own pathways of learning. In the subsequent years, students have access to dual credit courses, Advanced Placement (AP) programs, advanced tracks, and certification opportunities, all of which prepare them for a successful future while fostering a powerful sense of community.
A noteworthy revelation during this session was that the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, including Commerce Lexington, conducted a survey to name the most viable careers for the next five years. The survey results have allowed schools to tailor their curriculums to ensure that students are well-equipped to meet the demands of the local workforce. While workforce demand may influence the content in classrooms, strong community partnerships and exposure to various industries keep students motivated to stay in the area and contribute to Lexington and its surrounding communities. After hearing from faculty and learning about the academies, student ambassadors guided us on a tour of the school, highlighting the incredible work these driven young leaders are doing in the classroom.
Following the insightful discussions with FDHS, we had the privilege of meeting representatives from Carter G. Woodson Academy. Before hearing from the students, we were introduced to Assistant Principal Tommy Johnson and Dean of Scholars, Rosz Akins, who shared the rich history of the academy. Carter G. Woodson Academy, the first all-male preparatory school in Kentucky, was created with the vision of providing young African American men with the best environment, resources, and mentors to help them succeed. Named after Carter G. Woodson, the "Father of Black History," the academy serves students in grades 6-12 and teaches a curriculum that is deeply rooted in African American history. After learning about the academy’s mission and the impactful work the academy is doing within the community, we heard from several students who shared their firsthand experiences and highlighted the lifelong relationships built among scholars. Standing before a group of 50+ adults, they recited their “Scholar Creed” with such pride and conviction that it left us in awe, with chills and even tears. Their words were more than just recitations; they were an embodiment of their commitment to excellence and the standards they hold for themselves. Interacting with these young scholars—full of hope, energy, and ambition—left me feeling deeply inspired and confident in the future.
The day continued with educational exploration sessions, where we delved deeper into the inner workings of our education system. We spoke with education leaders about topics ranging from the role of fine arts in schools to the growing interest in industry-specific programs at the University of Kentucky. We also discussed the impressive early childhood programming offered by First 5 Lex, the expansive adult education opportunities at BCTC, and experience-based learning at The Hill. Throughout these conversations, the recurring theme was intentionality in education—preparing students in a holistic, well-rounded manner for success in the future. When asked what they wished for their students, educational leaders used words like “resilient,” “joyful,” “purpose,” “civility,” and “opportunity.” It is no coincidence that we left Education Day feeling reinvigorated with purpose, empowered to face future challenges with resilience, and deeply inspired by the dedication of these educators.
The day concluded with the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, where we learned about their certificate programs and how they are preparing college students to become leaders in the spirits industry. The tour of their operation was an inspiring end to the day.
As I reflect on Education Day, I am reminded of the importance of nurturing big dreams, fostering creativity, and equipping students with tools and resources for success. I hope that the 2024-25 Leadership Lexington Class can do this by investing in our community’s educational framework and leading by example.
Leadership is not defined by age, but by a commitment to challenge, inspire, and serve others. The 2024-25 Leadership Lexington Education Day powerfully reaffirmed this truth. As we engaged with young leaders, they reminded us of the boundless potential that exists in the next generation. The energy and vision of these emerging leaders gave a renewed hope for the future, while reminding me that leadership transcends age.
Our day began at Frederick Douglass High School (FDHS), where Fayette County Public Schools Superintendent, Demetrus Liggins; FDHS Executive Principal, Lester Diaz; and FDHS Academy Coach, Jamie Mills, warmly welcomed us. Academy Coach Mills provided information about the various academies and pathways offered to students at FDHS. This system of intentional learning aims to make education more relevant by providing students with clear pathways to follow within specialized academies. By exposing students to real-world experiences from their very first year at school, such as visiting college campuses and seeing higher-level classes, students become empowered to discover their personal interests and begin defining their own pathways of learning. In the subsequent years, students have access to dual credit courses, Advanced Placement (AP) programs, advanced tracks, and certification opportunities, all of which prepare them for a successful future while fostering a powerful sense of community.
A noteworthy revelation during this session was that the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, including Commerce Lexington, conducted a survey to name the most viable careers for the next five years. The survey results have allowed schools to tailor their curriculums to ensure that students are well-equipped to meet the demands of the local workforce. While workforce demand may influence the content in classrooms, strong community partnerships and exposure to various industries keep students motivated to stay in the area and contribute to Lexington and its surrounding communities. After hearing from faculty and learning about the academies, student ambassadors guided us on a tour of the school, highlighting the incredible work these driven young leaders are doing in the classroom.
Following the insightful discussions with FDHS, we had the privilege of meeting representatives from Carter G. Woodson Academy. Before hearing from the students, we were introduced to Assistant Principal Tommy Johnson and Dean of Scholars, Rosz Akins, who shared the rich history of the academy. Carter G. Woodson Academy, the first all-male preparatory school in Kentucky, was created with the vision of providing young African American men with the best environment, resources, and mentors to help them succeed. Named after Carter G. Woodson, the "Father of Black History," the academy serves students in grades 6-12 and teaches a curriculum that is deeply rooted in African American history. After learning about the academy’s mission and the impactful work the academy is doing within the community, we heard from several students who shared their firsthand experiences and highlighted the lifelong relationships built among scholars. Standing before a group of 50+ adults, they recited their “Scholar Creed” with such pride and conviction that it left us in awe, with chills and even tears. Their words were more than just recitations; they were an embodiment of their commitment to excellence and the standards they hold for themselves. Interacting with these young scholars—full of hope, energy, and ambition—left me feeling deeply inspired and confident in the future.
The day continued with educational exploration sessions, where we delved deeper into the inner workings of our education system. We spoke with education leaders about topics ranging from the role of fine arts in schools to the growing interest in industry-specific programs at the University of Kentucky. We also discussed the impressive early childhood programming offered by First 5 Lex, the expansive adult education opportunities at BCTC, and experience-based learning at The Hill. Throughout these conversations, the recurring theme was intentionality in education—preparing students in a holistic, well-rounded manner for success in the future. When asked what they wished for their students, educational leaders used words like “resilient,” “joyful,” “purpose,” “civility,” and “opportunity.” It is no coincidence that we left Education Day feeling reinvigorated with purpose, empowered to face future challenges with resilience, and deeply inspired by the dedication of these educators.
The day concluded with the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, where we learned about their certificate programs and how they are preparing college students to become leaders in the spirits industry. The tour of their operation was an inspiring end to the day.
As I reflect on Education Day, I am reminded of the importance of nurturing big dreams, fostering creativity, and equipping students with tools and resources for success. I hope that the 2024-25 Leadership Lexington Class can do this by investing in our community’s educational framework and leading by example.
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