Submitted
BRIGHT Kentucky, to be coordinated by the Leadership Kentucky Foundation, Inc. (now in its 35th year), is designed to build the capacity of next-generation leaders (average age 20-40) in the Appalachian region of Kentucky to innovate, collaborate, and advance community and economic development. BRIGHT Kentucky will engage bright, entrepreneurial minds from all sectors and regions to offer non-partisan, ethical leadership training, expanded networks, and mentors designed especially for residents of the 54 Kentucky counties of the ARC.
A major focal point of the program will be to help participants fully understand local economic context and to build robust skill sets in communication, collaboration, consensus building, visioning, and community engagement. Participants will complete the program with the skills necessary to think long-term and strategically to build upon the strengths of their communities and lead the region to a more prosperous future.
BRIGHT Kentucky Sessions Dates and Locations:
July 29-31: Natural Bridge Region (Campton, Natural Bridge)
• Understanding and Maximizing Your Leadership Style (this session is mandatory)
September 4-6: Big Sandy Region (Pikeville, Paintsville, Prestonsburg)
• Understanding and Making a Case for the Region
September 23-25: Cumberland Region (Corbin, Somerset, Monticello)
• Collaborating for Higher Impact
October 28-30: Daniel Boone Region (Richmond, Berea, Frankfort)
• Advocating for the Region
November 20-22: Gateway Region (Morehead, Central Kentucky)
• Activating the Vision and Graduation
BRIGHT Kentucky Participants:
The target audience for participation will be the 20-40 age group representing the next-generation of leaders. The curriculum is designed to inspire and energize participants to stay in Eastern Kentucky and make a difference in their home communities. It is expected that participants will attend all sessions, but the first session in July is mandatory.
How to Apply:
Interested in being a program participant? A link to the application is below. The application DEADLINE is June 28.
(https://www.leadershipky.org/programs/bright-kentucky-5/bright-application-24/)
BRIGHT Kentucky is made possible by a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and private funding from the Whitaker Foundation and others. Therefore, this program will be offered free-of-charge to approximately 50 participants in 2019 and another 50 in 2020.
Please reach out to the Leadership Kentucky office at, 502-695-1102 or email LKY@leadershipky.org with any questions.