Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for a great way to get involved in your community? Commerce Lexington Inc. offers wonderful opportunities for you or your company to get involved and serve on various planning committees or assist with the formation of the organization’s public policy statements. Commerce Lexington’s success depends on the many volunteers that participate in the variety of events, programs, and services that are presented each year – from our Ambassador Program to the Winner’s Circle resource development program. Volunteers like you are absolutely necessary for Commerce Lexington and the community to achieve its long-term goals. All of Commerce Lexington’s volunteer choices not only provide you with great networking opportunities, but also your company with wonderful visibility within the community.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A LIST OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. COMMITTEES
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A LIST OF COMMERCE LEXINGTON INC. COMMITTEES
Ambassador Spotlight (August 2018):
Dr. Ken Miller, Coffee News of the Bluegrass
Dr. Ken Miller and his wife, Jill, run Coffee News of the Bluegrass, the friendly little tan paper you see in restaurants, waiting rooms, libraries, and other places all over town, containing a fun mix of news, trivia, and humor. Dr. Miller said, “Coffee News is quickly becoming Lexington’s ‘house paper,’ because we are in so many locations. Unlike most other publications, advertising in Coffee News is business category-exclusive.”
The Millers moved to Lexington in 1990 for Ken to attend graduate school at UK, where he earned a Ph.D. He said, “We never left and will likely never leave, because Lexington is like no other place. We are within a short drive to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country!"
About being involved with Commerce Lexington, Dr. Miller said, "Truth of the matter is that I am somewhat of an introvert. Most people would never believe that given my background as a college professor, academic dean, university provost, and business owner, but it’s very true. Commerce Lexington, especially being an ambassador, gets me out doing fun things to make friends and network with other business people."
“Being an ambassador is a lot of fun,” said Dr. Miller. “When I’m making a call at a business, it’s almost inevitable that someone asks, “what do you do?” When I tell them that I’m the co-owner of Coffee News, they usually smile and say something like ‘I see that little paper everywhere’ or ‘I love Coffee News!’ Quite honestly, it’s really heart-warming to see that we are actually touching people.”
When asked about his favorite Commerce Lexington Inc. event, he said, “Business Links are my absolute favorite. They’re fun, informal, and provide an easy way to learn about other businesses.”
Contact Dr. Ken Miller at Coffee News at (859) 806-3536.
Dr. Ken Miller, Coffee News of the Bluegrass
Dr. Ken Miller and his wife, Jill, run Coffee News of the Bluegrass, the friendly little tan paper you see in restaurants, waiting rooms, libraries, and other places all over town, containing a fun mix of news, trivia, and humor. Dr. Miller said, “Coffee News is quickly becoming Lexington’s ‘house paper,’ because we are in so many locations. Unlike most other publications, advertising in Coffee News is business category-exclusive.”
The Millers moved to Lexington in 1990 for Ken to attend graduate school at UK, where he earned a Ph.D. He said, “We never left and will likely never leave, because Lexington is like no other place. We are within a short drive to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country!"
About being involved with Commerce Lexington, Dr. Miller said, "Truth of the matter is that I am somewhat of an introvert. Most people would never believe that given my background as a college professor, academic dean, university provost, and business owner, but it’s very true. Commerce Lexington, especially being an ambassador, gets me out doing fun things to make friends and network with other business people."
“Being an ambassador is a lot of fun,” said Dr. Miller. “When I’m making a call at a business, it’s almost inevitable that someone asks, “what do you do?” When I tell them that I’m the co-owner of Coffee News, they usually smile and say something like ‘I see that little paper everywhere’ or ‘I love Coffee News!’ Quite honestly, it’s really heart-warming to see that we are actually touching people.”
When asked about his favorite Commerce Lexington Inc. event, he said, “Business Links are my absolute favorite. They’re fun, informal, and provide an easy way to learn about other businesses.”
Contact Dr. Ken Miller at Coffee News at (859) 806-3536.
Ambassador Spotlight (July 2018):
Todd Sallee, Ky. Employers' Mutual Insurance
Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance (KEMI) is the largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance in Kentucky. It has maintained an “Excellent” rating from A.M. Best since 2001, was selected as one of the Ward’s 50 for financial stability and responsible business practices, and has been ranked first nationally as a Best Place to Work in Insurance by Business Insurance Magazine.
As a business development/community relations manager, Todd’s main responsibilities include community development, networking and establishing strong relationships with agents, policyholders and key community organizations. He also oversees KEMI's volunteer efforts and continuing education class offerings. "We offer 10 CE classes and have 19 instructors here at KEMI," he said.
A Lexington native, Sallee spent nearly 17 years in the banking industry before joining KEMI. He said that what impresses him the most about KEMI is its culture of serving others, which “is at the core of KEMI’s vision, mission, and values. I believe this culture makes employees work harder for KEMI and its policyholders. I feel very blessed to work at KEMI," he added.
“Serving as an Ambassador is truly an honor,” said Sallee. “It is very satisfying to know that we are put in front of key businesses across Central Kentucky to make sure they are getting the most out of Commerce Lexington and utilizing all of the many resources that they have to offer. Commerce Lexington has been a great resource for me to network and grow in our community.”
Contact Todd Sallee at KEMI at (859) 425-7800.
Todd Sallee, Ky. Employers' Mutual Insurance
Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance (KEMI) is the largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance in Kentucky. It has maintained an “Excellent” rating from A.M. Best since 2001, was selected as one of the Ward’s 50 for financial stability and responsible business practices, and has been ranked first nationally as a Best Place to Work in Insurance by Business Insurance Magazine.
As a business development/community relations manager, Todd’s main responsibilities include community development, networking and establishing strong relationships with agents, policyholders and key community organizations. He also oversees KEMI's volunteer efforts and continuing education class offerings. "We offer 10 CE classes and have 19 instructors here at KEMI," he said.
A Lexington native, Sallee spent nearly 17 years in the banking industry before joining KEMI. He said that what impresses him the most about KEMI is its culture of serving others, which “is at the core of KEMI’s vision, mission, and values. I believe this culture makes employees work harder for KEMI and its policyholders. I feel very blessed to work at KEMI," he added.
“Serving as an Ambassador is truly an honor,” said Sallee. “It is very satisfying to know that we are put in front of key businesses across Central Kentucky to make sure they are getting the most out of Commerce Lexington and utilizing all of the many resources that they have to offer. Commerce Lexington has been a great resource for me to network and grow in our community.”
Contact Todd Sallee at KEMI at (859) 425-7800.
Ambassador Spotlight (June 2018):
Greg Brown, C-Forward
A native of Morehead, Kentucky, Greg moved to Lexington 15 years ago. After a long career at a Fortune 100 company, he was convinced by long-time friend and C-Forward owner, Brent Cooper, to open the company’s Lexington office in 2014. He said, “The Bluegrass is a great place to live with so many activities and opportunities.”
Started by Brent Cooper nearly 20 years ago, C-Forward focuses on being a complete IT department that provides personal, proactive and reliable service to small businesses with 10 to 150 employees. This rapidly-growing IT company has been recognized with several awards, including the Cincinnati Chamber's Small Business Excellence Award, the Northern Kentucky Chamber's Small Business Success Award, the Better Business Bureau's Torch Award, and the U.S. Chamber's Free Enterprise Honor.
Greg’s main job responsibilities include managing the Lexington office, marketing, sales, and presenting security training to his client’s employees, which are included for C-Forward’s managed service clients.
Greg said, “I have really enjoyed the @330 Series events over the last few years. Most of the @330 topics have helped me market and grow my business thanks to some great presenters. There are a lot of members missing out on these valuable seminars. I attend as many events as possible, and I’ve had the opportunity to make some good friends and great business relationships.”
He added, "I love to connect people and other businesses. Staying involved in Commerce Lexington Inc. gives me the opportunity to touch many people and connect to other businesses or services that can help them grow, save them money or boost their productivity. It is a very satisfying day when I can connect people/businesses, whether it is C-Forward or another CLX member. That is why I love serving as an Ambassador."
For all of your business I.T. needs, contact Greg Brown by E-MAIL HERE.
Greg Brown, C-Forward
A native of Morehead, Kentucky, Greg moved to Lexington 15 years ago. After a long career at a Fortune 100 company, he was convinced by long-time friend and C-Forward owner, Brent Cooper, to open the company’s Lexington office in 2014. He said, “The Bluegrass is a great place to live with so many activities and opportunities.”
Started by Brent Cooper nearly 20 years ago, C-Forward focuses on being a complete IT department that provides personal, proactive and reliable service to small businesses with 10 to 150 employees. This rapidly-growing IT company has been recognized with several awards, including the Cincinnati Chamber's Small Business Excellence Award, the Northern Kentucky Chamber's Small Business Success Award, the Better Business Bureau's Torch Award, and the U.S. Chamber's Free Enterprise Honor.
Greg’s main job responsibilities include managing the Lexington office, marketing, sales, and presenting security training to his client’s employees, which are included for C-Forward’s managed service clients.
Greg said, “I have really enjoyed the @330 Series events over the last few years. Most of the @330 topics have helped me market and grow my business thanks to some great presenters. There are a lot of members missing out on these valuable seminars. I attend as many events as possible, and I’ve had the opportunity to make some good friends and great business relationships.”
He added, "I love to connect people and other businesses. Staying involved in Commerce Lexington Inc. gives me the opportunity to touch many people and connect to other businesses or services that can help them grow, save them money or boost their productivity. It is a very satisfying day when I can connect people/businesses, whether it is C-Forward or another CLX member. That is why I love serving as an Ambassador."
For all of your business I.T. needs, contact Greg Brown by E-MAIL HERE.
Ambassador Spotlight (May 2018):
Julia Cedergren, U.S. Bank
A native of Cincinnati, Julia began with U.S. Bank in 2001, where she led the commercial real estate reviews. After about six years, she relocated to Hanover, New Hampshire and ran her own business as a private yoga teacher. Five years later, her family moved to Lexington, and she made the transition back to U.S. Bank in the Commercial Banking division as a relationship manager. She said, "It’s a position I’d wanted to move into, full of opportunity to try to build out a portfolio and develop new connections. I ultimately wanted to be in a position that would give me the opportunity to work directly with the businesses in our community."
As a relationship manager, Julia is responsible for managing all aspects of a client’s banking relationship, and consulting on ways to utilize financial resources for both existing and prospective clients. She said, “I seek out new relationships for our bank, analyze and consult on financial information, structure loans, and bring in our internal partners for some of our specialty divisions such as capital markets, treasury management, etc.”
Serving as an Ambassador, Julia said, “We have a really wonderful group of Ambassadors. I’m new to the group, and they’ve been so welcoming. Getting to know the people behind the businesses in our community has been my greatest experience with Commerce Lexington.”
She added, “Commerce Lexington is a wonderful partner to all businesses in our community. We are fortunate to have such support and advocacy to help our Lexington businesses grow and develop. For me, it’s a great opportunity to make connections and generate new ideas.”
"I am originally from Cincinnati, but have been fortunate to call Lexington my home for several years now. My favorite parts of the area include nature, culinary offerings, the friendly people, and the sense of community."
Contact Julia Cedergren at U.S. Bank's Nicholasville Road branch at (859) 232-8163.
Julia Cedergren, U.S. Bank
A native of Cincinnati, Julia began with U.S. Bank in 2001, where she led the commercial real estate reviews. After about six years, she relocated to Hanover, New Hampshire and ran her own business as a private yoga teacher. Five years later, her family moved to Lexington, and she made the transition back to U.S. Bank in the Commercial Banking division as a relationship manager. She said, "It’s a position I’d wanted to move into, full of opportunity to try to build out a portfolio and develop new connections. I ultimately wanted to be in a position that would give me the opportunity to work directly with the businesses in our community."
As a relationship manager, Julia is responsible for managing all aspects of a client’s banking relationship, and consulting on ways to utilize financial resources for both existing and prospective clients. She said, “I seek out new relationships for our bank, analyze and consult on financial information, structure loans, and bring in our internal partners for some of our specialty divisions such as capital markets, treasury management, etc.”
Serving as an Ambassador, Julia said, “We have a really wonderful group of Ambassadors. I’m new to the group, and they’ve been so welcoming. Getting to know the people behind the businesses in our community has been my greatest experience with Commerce Lexington.”
She added, “Commerce Lexington is a wonderful partner to all businesses in our community. We are fortunate to have such support and advocacy to help our Lexington businesses grow and develop. For me, it’s a great opportunity to make connections and generate new ideas.”
"I am originally from Cincinnati, but have been fortunate to call Lexington my home for several years now. My favorite parts of the area include nature, culinary offerings, the friendly people, and the sense of community."
Contact Julia Cedergren at U.S. Bank's Nicholasville Road branch at (859) 232-8163.
Ambassador Spotlight (April 2018):
Donnie Niehaus, Ward Hocker Thornton PLLC
An attorney at Ward Hocker Thornton, PLLC, Donnie Niehaus focuses on representing employers in workers’ compensation claims, while also handling employment law and general litigation matters. He also collaborates with businesses to prevent workplace injuries and develop strategies for quickly and cost-effectively bringing their employees back to work after an injury. WHT is primarily an insurance defense firm with offices in Lexington and Louisville.
"The legal field is an attractive industry to me, because it is constantly changing and fast-paced," said Niehaus. "I am always evolving and learning - both legal issues and new industries. Additionally, I enjoy strategizing with clients and working with them to resolve complex issues. Finally, there is rarely a boring moment, especially with fraudulent work place injuries."
“The daily challenges of being a lawyer are numerous and include staying current on legal issues to predicting future trends,” said Niehaus. “Additionally, being a lawyer is the definition of the customer service industry, and I strive to ensure I am exceeding my client’s needs.”
“I enjoy serving as an Ambassador, because it gives me the opportunity to meet people with other interests and from other industries that I would not otherwise come into contact with,” he said. “Additionally, I am exposed to businesses that I never even knew existed. My favorite events to attend are ribbon cuttings for new businesses. The stories of the entrepreneurs and their businesses are very inspiring.”
“I enjoy Lexington, because it’s a smaller town with all of the amenities and opportunities of a bigger metropolitan area. The city has great charm. The area is gorgeous and food is absolutely tremendous. The cost of living is also lower than many other cities.”
Contact Donnie Niehaus at (859) 422-6000.
Donnie Niehaus, Ward Hocker Thornton PLLC
An attorney at Ward Hocker Thornton, PLLC, Donnie Niehaus focuses on representing employers in workers’ compensation claims, while also handling employment law and general litigation matters. He also collaborates with businesses to prevent workplace injuries and develop strategies for quickly and cost-effectively bringing their employees back to work after an injury. WHT is primarily an insurance defense firm with offices in Lexington and Louisville.
"The legal field is an attractive industry to me, because it is constantly changing and fast-paced," said Niehaus. "I am always evolving and learning - both legal issues and new industries. Additionally, I enjoy strategizing with clients and working with them to resolve complex issues. Finally, there is rarely a boring moment, especially with fraudulent work place injuries."
“The daily challenges of being a lawyer are numerous and include staying current on legal issues to predicting future trends,” said Niehaus. “Additionally, being a lawyer is the definition of the customer service industry, and I strive to ensure I am exceeding my client’s needs.”
“I enjoy serving as an Ambassador, because it gives me the opportunity to meet people with other interests and from other industries that I would not otherwise come into contact with,” he said. “Additionally, I am exposed to businesses that I never even knew existed. My favorite events to attend are ribbon cuttings for new businesses. The stories of the entrepreneurs and their businesses are very inspiring.”
“I enjoy Lexington, because it’s a smaller town with all of the amenities and opportunities of a bigger metropolitan area. The city has great charm. The area is gorgeous and food is absolutely tremendous. The cost of living is also lower than many other cities.”
Contact Donnie Niehaus at (859) 422-6000.
Ambassador Spotlight (March 2018):
Laura Henry, Energy Insurance Agency
Energy Insurance Agency has been around since the early 1980’s, providing all types of coverages, from commercial to personal, and employee benefits. It has grown by leaps and bounds into a business with eight locations, 90-plus associates licensed in over 48 states, and more than $125 million in written premium.
Laura Henry began working at Energy Insurance in January 2014, and she helps businesses protect their assets, whether it’s their people, or buildings and operations. She said, “Hands down, the best part of my job is working with clients and building relationships. I sell a promise, and I try to craft the best possible insurance program for each client. I tell my clients I am their Chief Worry Officer. I worry over the coverages, so they don’t have to!"
“I love meeting new people, and helping to make the community the best possible place for my family, friends and neighbors. I feel a responsibility to help with that mission,” she added. Her favorite events include Business Links, the Annual Dinner, Public Policy Luncheons, and the Business on the Green golf event.
“I love being an Ambassador for the same reason that I love my job - being able to build relationships. The opportunity to meet fellow ambassadors, CLX staff, and the members is awesome,” added Henry. “I enjoy talking to members, hearing their stories of success, and helping them take advantage of their membership and all the benefits they receive."
Contact Laura Henry at Energy Insurance Agency at (859) 543-3019.
Laura Henry, Energy Insurance Agency
Energy Insurance Agency has been around since the early 1980’s, providing all types of coverages, from commercial to personal, and employee benefits. It has grown by leaps and bounds into a business with eight locations, 90-plus associates licensed in over 48 states, and more than $125 million in written premium.
Laura Henry began working at Energy Insurance in January 2014, and she helps businesses protect their assets, whether it’s their people, or buildings and operations. She said, “Hands down, the best part of my job is working with clients and building relationships. I sell a promise, and I try to craft the best possible insurance program for each client. I tell my clients I am their Chief Worry Officer. I worry over the coverages, so they don’t have to!"
“I love meeting new people, and helping to make the community the best possible place for my family, friends and neighbors. I feel a responsibility to help with that mission,” she added. Her favorite events include Business Links, the Annual Dinner, Public Policy Luncheons, and the Business on the Green golf event.
“I love being an Ambassador for the same reason that I love my job - being able to build relationships. The opportunity to meet fellow ambassadors, CLX staff, and the members is awesome,” added Henry. “I enjoy talking to members, hearing their stories of success, and helping them take advantage of their membership and all the benefits they receive."
Contact Laura Henry at Energy Insurance Agency at (859) 543-3019.
Ambassador Spotlight (February 2018):
Chuck Powers, Lexington Insurance Agency
Lexington Insurance was started by Garvis Kincaid in 1952. Fast forward to 2004, the agency was purchased from the estate by four persons working in the agency offering all lines of insurance including benefits and bonds.
Knowing about the reputation of Lexington Insurance for over 30 years during the time he owned his own personal lines insurance agency, Chuck joined the agency in 2016, following the sale of his business. He said, "There was an opportunity at Lexington Insurance for a sales producer to generate new customers, and I joined their team, building relationships with businesses and others, and assisting with choices regarding their insurance programs."
Chuck said, “As a resident for over 30 years, it still amazes me what Lexington is developing, achieving, the diversity of efforts, opportunities, and the feeling of cooperation which exists. Commerce Lexington assists and promotes this activity. As with other cities, Lexington is not perfect, however positive efforts are being made with input from the community, we have plenty to be proud of.”
“Being involved with Commerce Lexington as an Ambassador, I get a chance to brag about Lexington to others and be informed about other businesses,” said Powers. “Attending events such as @330, BOAB groups, and Business Link are practical, educational, and informative. With many events priced at a low cost to attend, a wide range of opportunity exists for members regarding their level of commitment and involvement.”
Contact Chuck Powers at Lexington Insurance Agency at (859) 253-6570.
Chuck Powers, Lexington Insurance Agency
Lexington Insurance was started by Garvis Kincaid in 1952. Fast forward to 2004, the agency was purchased from the estate by four persons working in the agency offering all lines of insurance including benefits and bonds.
Knowing about the reputation of Lexington Insurance for over 30 years during the time he owned his own personal lines insurance agency, Chuck joined the agency in 2016, following the sale of his business. He said, "There was an opportunity at Lexington Insurance for a sales producer to generate new customers, and I joined their team, building relationships with businesses and others, and assisting with choices regarding their insurance programs."
Chuck said, “As a resident for over 30 years, it still amazes me what Lexington is developing, achieving, the diversity of efforts, opportunities, and the feeling of cooperation which exists. Commerce Lexington assists and promotes this activity. As with other cities, Lexington is not perfect, however positive efforts are being made with input from the community, we have plenty to be proud of.”
“Being involved with Commerce Lexington as an Ambassador, I get a chance to brag about Lexington to others and be informed about other businesses,” said Powers. “Attending events such as @330, BOAB groups, and Business Link are practical, educational, and informative. With many events priced at a low cost to attend, a wide range of opportunity exists for members regarding their level of commitment and involvement.”
Contact Chuck Powers at Lexington Insurance Agency at (859) 253-6570.
WesBanco's Mark Wiemer Named 2017 Commerce Lexington Inc. Ambassador of the Year
WesBanco's Mark Wiemer was recognized as the 2017 Ambassador of the Year at the Commerce Lexington Inc. Annual Dinner presented by Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance on January 25th. Jonathan Miller from Frost Brown Todd presented the award, and said, "Mark always goes above and beyond, as he takes the time to personally visit with our members and help them engage. He regularly attends ribbon cuttings and is an all-around awesome representative of Commerce Lexington Inc."
With a banking career that spans more than 25 years, Mark Wiemer joined WesBanco in 2013 and currently manages the banking center on Sir Barton Way. He works with individuals and businesses to help them achieve their banking goals. Wesbanco Bank is in the Lexington market as the result of its acquisition of Your Community Bank in 2016. It first opened its doors 1870 and now serves five states, including West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
Last year marked his tenth year serving as an Ambassador. Mark said, “This privilege has allowed me the opportunity to get to know and work with many local businesses. I have been able to see them at their ribbon cutting and watch them grow over the years. I get to meet with owners of businesses who are members and share the good news of Commerce Lexington and also help them maximize the real value of their membership.
“Ribbon cuttings, Public Policy Luncheons, the Annual Dinner and the Business Links are some of my favorite events to attend,” said Wiemer. “I meet people at these events that I might not have met under normal circumstances.”
Lexington has been the home for Mark and his family for close to 25 years. He said, "I cannot imagine a better environment for my two sons to have grown up in. The quality of life here is second-to-none. The variety of things to do is almost endless. We especially enjoy taking advantage of the many wonderful restaurant offerings."
Contact Mark Wiemer at WesBanco at (859) 244-7211.
WesBanco's Mark Wiemer was recognized as the 2017 Ambassador of the Year at the Commerce Lexington Inc. Annual Dinner presented by Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance on January 25th. Jonathan Miller from Frost Brown Todd presented the award, and said, "Mark always goes above and beyond, as he takes the time to personally visit with our members and help them engage. He regularly attends ribbon cuttings and is an all-around awesome representative of Commerce Lexington Inc."
With a banking career that spans more than 25 years, Mark Wiemer joined WesBanco in 2013 and currently manages the banking center on Sir Barton Way. He works with individuals and businesses to help them achieve their banking goals. Wesbanco Bank is in the Lexington market as the result of its acquisition of Your Community Bank in 2016. It first opened its doors 1870 and now serves five states, including West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
Last year marked his tenth year serving as an Ambassador. Mark said, “This privilege has allowed me the opportunity to get to know and work with many local businesses. I have been able to see them at their ribbon cutting and watch them grow over the years. I get to meet with owners of businesses who are members and share the good news of Commerce Lexington and also help them maximize the real value of their membership.
“Ribbon cuttings, Public Policy Luncheons, the Annual Dinner and the Business Links are some of my favorite events to attend,” said Wiemer. “I meet people at these events that I might not have met under normal circumstances.”
Lexington has been the home for Mark and his family for close to 25 years. He said, "I cannot imagine a better environment for my two sons to have grown up in. The quality of life here is second-to-none. The variety of things to do is almost endless. We especially enjoy taking advantage of the many wonderful restaurant offerings."
Contact Mark Wiemer at WesBanco at (859) 244-7211.
