Leadership Lexington Class of 2025: Driving Community Change Through Bold Ideas

Each year, the Leadership Lexington program, presented by Community Trust Bank, empowers participants to become active changemakers in our community. One of the most meaningful components of the program is the class project—an opportunity for participants to work in teams, identify a need, and develop a sustainable solution.
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The Class of 2025 took this challenge to heart. Over the past year, they launched four dynamic projects that addressed key community needs—ranging from homelessness and sustainability to youth empowerment and workforce reentry.

Here’s a look at what they accomplished and what’s still to come.

Photo from Leadership Lexington Alumni Reception at Graham Cottage. Courtesy of Mahan Multimedia.

Compassion Lex

Building a More Compassionate Lexington
On May 15, Compassion Lex brought together 32 organizations dedicated to supporting Lexington’s homeless and vulnerable populations. This powerful day of collaboration:

• Featured remarks from Jeff Herron (Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention)
• Hosted a panel with leaders from Jubilee Jobs, Lexington Rescue Mission, and Isaiah House
• Facilitated valuable roundtable discussions for service alignment
• Launched the first Compassion Guide—a pocket-sized, street-level resource for neighbors in crisis

What’s Next:

• High interest in quarterly Compassion Lex meetings
• Need for a lead host organization and continued production of the Compassion Guide
• Thanks to Lynn Imaging for offering discounted printing for future editions

​Congratulations to Lighthouse Ministries, winner of the post-event survey drawing and recipient of a $500 donation.

Photo of Jeff Herron speaking at the Compassion Lex Conference.

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CompostLex

Reducing Waste with Worms
Originally envisioned as a large-scale composting initiative, the CompostLex team pivoted their strategy when faced with logistical hurdles—and found their biggest impact in local classrooms.
​Key accomplishments include:

• Launching vermicomposting pilot programs in 10 Fayette County elementary schools
• Creating custom worm farm kits and an engaging, hands-on Education Guide
• Updating FCPS’s official Compost Manual with student-friendly materials

Student Impact:
Hundreds of 1st–5th graders learned about sustainability firsthand by building bins, feeding Red Wigglers, and understanding how waste can transform into nutrient-rich soil.

​Photo of CompostLex team members Rachel Skinner and Adina Tatum sharing a compost kit with students.

Looking Ahead:
With support from Bluegrass Greensource, FCPS Energy & Sustainability, and community partners, the team plans to expand to more schools in fall 2025.

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Next Up Lex

Showcasing Student Talent, Inspiring the Next Generation
Launched as a creative platform for high school students, Next Up Lex made its debut on May 24, 2025, at the Lexington Children’s Theatre. The event celebrated creativity, confidence, and community.

Event Highlights:

• 9 student performers from Fayette County high schools
• Talent acts included singing, dancing, acting, and more
• 95 community members attended the ticketed showcase
• Judges selected top winners:
   $1,000 • $500 •  $250 prizes

What’s Next:
The project will be adopted by Lexington Children’s Theatre and LexArts, with a shared goal of hosting the event annually.
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Special thanks to the Leadership Lexington Alumni Association and Lexington Chamber of Commerce for their incredible support.

Photo of Project Next Up Lex team on stage at Lexington Children’s Theatre during event planning.

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Look Good, Feel Good Lexington

Empowering Confidence Through Community Support
Look Good, Feel Good Lexington emerged from a shared vision: to help individuals in recovery or reentry return to the workforce with confidence and dignity.
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On March 28, 2025, the team hosted a one-day community event at the Lexington Workforce Resource Center, offering:

• 88 free haircuts
• Over 1,000 items of professional clothing
• On-site job interviews and resume assistance
• Hot meals for 250+ individuals, including 500 donated bags of chips from Frito-Lay
• Over 200 attendees served in one day

What’s Next:
The team is already planning a 2026 event with the goal of expanding regional reach and deepening impact.
Want to get involved? Contact [email protected] for partnership or volunteer opportunities.

​Photo of attendees receiving free haircuts from stylists during the Look Good, Feel Good Lexington event.

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Celebrating Leadership in Action

The Class of 2025 demonstrated what leadership truly looks like: listening, collaborating, innovating, and taking action. From supporting our unhoused neighbors to inspiring young artists and reducing waste in schools, their projects have left a lasting legacy on Lexington.

​Commerce Lexington is proud to support these changemakers and looks forward to seeing how these initiatives continue to grow.

Stay connected with us for updates on next year’s Leadership Lexington class and upcoming community impact opportunities.