Be "Ready to Win" at EMERGE 2025

Commerce Lexington is excited to announce the 12th annual EMERGE Conference at Central Bank Center presented by University of Kentucky Online. 
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On March 11, like-minded emerging leaders from across Central Kentucky will come together for a full day of networking and interactive breakout sessions. Attendees have the opportunity to explore and learn ways in which they can better impact and connect with the flourishing Bluegrass Region. 

Following the event’s opening remarks, attendees will have the chance to join breakout sessions designed to foster both professional growth and community engagement. These sessions are led by industry experts and community leaders, offering insights on leadership development, innovation in business and strategies for making a positive impact in the Bluegrass Region.

Participants will not only gain valuable skills to advance their careers but also discover actionable ways to contribute to the growth and success of Central Kentucky. Whether through professional development, networking with peers or connecting with local organizations, attendees will leave EMERGE empowered to help shape the future of the region.

Meet your Keynote Speaker

EMERGE will host author, coach and speaker Matthew Mitchell as the keynote for the conference. Coach Mitchell is a three-time SEC Coach of the Year, the winningest head coach in the history of the University of Kentucky women’s basketball program and a Wall Street Journal best-selling author.

From his latest book, “Ready to Win: How Great Leaders Succeed through Preparation,” Coach Mitchell brings his principles from the Winning Tools platform to inspire attendees to take action in their personal and professional lives.

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Luncheon

Raquel Carter, Owner of Guide Realty and MC of this years EMERGE Conference will lead a conversation with Bruce Drake and Brian McCarty, Owners of Bluegrass Hospitality Group. The ‘fire side’ chat will revolve around the ‘Ready to Win’ theme as all three individuals will share their success stories and discuss how each step in their career journey has prepared them for what’s next. How do challenges prepare you to win? How much does ones mindset position you for success? This conversation over lunch will answer those questions and more!

Breakout Sessions

​Professional Development:

You Can’t Spell Improvement Without Improv

Develop quick-thinking and adaptability skills during this interactive and informative session. Build confidence and learn how to handle unexpected scenarios in a personal or professional setting. Enhance your creative problem-solving and decision-making abilities as you learn the ropes of thinking outside the box and how to not pigeonhole yourself into one area of expertise.

Developing An Authentic Leadership Style

​Participants will explore the key components of authentic leadership and learn how to cultivate a leadership style that aligns with personal values along with the mission of their organization. Through practical strategies, attendees will gain insights on how to effectively bridge the gap between their personal goals and the overarching mission of their organization.

Mentorship Matters: How To Find, Build, And Be A Great Mentor

​Learn how to build effective mentoring relationships across generations and cultures while inspiring growth, trust and success. Whether you are seeking a mentor or looking to mentor others, this session offers valuable insights to help you build impactful connections that last.

Harnessing Your Values To Fuel Your Leadership Strategy

​Learn how to influence and persuade others with integrity and empathy. Looking at the psychology behind influence and persuasion, you will learn how to use emotional intelligence to connect with others’ values and ethical persuasion in leadership and negotiation strategies.

Community Engagement:

DevelopLex Live: Driving Community Growth through Infill Redevelopment

​​The DevelopLex podcast, hosted by Ross Boggess and Weston Lockhart, is central Kentucky’s premier platform for dynamic discussions on real estate development. In this live episode event, the hosts will be joined by Chad Walker and Seth Turner, developers behind two of Lexington’s most innovative and vibrant mixed-use destinations. Their discussion will explore the unique stories behind The Warehouse Block and The Commons, highlighting the use of infill redevelopment to enhance Lexington’s rich heritage while driving its future forward.

Creating Culture

​Discover practical strategies for fostering a supportive, inclusive and engaging environment that not only attracts top talent but keeps them motivated and loyal to produce high quality work. From communication and values alignment to leadership practices, learn just how small shifts can make even larger impacts on employee morale and long-term retention in the workplace.

Minority Business Panel 

​Come and learn about Commerce Lexington’s support of minority owned businesses and the struggles that minority business owners have had in starting their businesses. Watch how leaders can empower minority employees and amplify the work of minority owned businesses in the Bluegrass.

Greater Lexington’s Strategy For Attracting And Retaining Talent-

Join us to learn about the Region's first talent attraction marketing campaign. Where we will share data insights, strategy overview and show creative aspects that contribute to the campaign. Attendees have the opportunity to participate in a creative workshop, where they will learn how they can help guide the next phase of the talent marketing strategy. 

Leadership begins at any stage, and by attending EMERGE, you are taking a key step toward setting the foundation for success. Whether just starting out, transitioning into a new role or looking to elevate your current leadership skills, our breakout sessions and Coach Mitchell are here to support you every step of the way.

EMERGE is designed to empower leaders at all levels—from early-career professionals to seasoned community leaders—by providing the confidence, insights and strategies you need to step into new opportunities and make a meaningful impact, whether it be applying for a new job or taking on a leadership role.
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To learn more, make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on breakout session speakers and other important information regarding the conference.

Register now to receive a copy of Coach Mitchells book!
​See you at EMERGE!

Register now!