Patton Leadership Institute Visits Martin County for First Official Session

INEZ, KY — November 6, 2025 —The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s Patton Leadership Institute Class of 2026 visited Martin County on Thursday, November 6, for their first official session following the program’s Opening Retreat held in October at Breaks Interstate Park.

The day began at the Martin County Library inside the Roy F. Collier Community Center, where participants heard from a series of local leaders and changemakers.

Heather Perry of Appalachian Reach Out opened the morning by sharing her inspiring full-circle journey from joining a mission trip with ARO as a college student, to interning with the organization, to now serving as Academic Director overseeing its internship program.

Inez City Commissioner Nita Collier followed with remarks highlighting several projects she has helped facilitate to improve and revitalize the community, including new walking trails, park enhancements, and community events aimed at bringing more visitors and opportunities to Martin County.

James Ayers, Assistant Vice President and Regional Retail Manager at First State Bank, addressed the group in his capacity as a member of the Martin County Economic Development Authority. Ayers spoke on the county’s economic history and the evolving financial landscape of the region, tracing the formation of Kentucky’s 120 counties back to economic infrastructure and taxation.

Following the morning sessions, the group traveled to AppleAtcha Apple Orchard, where Ryan Wilson, overseer of the project, guided participants through the orchard and shared insight into its development. Lunch was provided courtesy of AppleAtcha Orchard and Booth Energy.

The session concluded with an exclusive tour of the United States Penitentiary Big Sandy, located just down the road from the orchard. Participants were guided through the facility by Corrections Officers and Treatment Specialists, who provided an in-depth look at the operations of the penitentiary, including its treatment-oriented housing unit, recreational areas, and spiritual accommodations.

The Martin County visit offered participants a unique perspective on leadership, community development, and economic opportunity within Eastern Kentucky.

The Patton Leadership Institute, organized by the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, is designed to develop emerging leaders across the region by fostering connections, exploring community challenges, and cultivating a deeper understanding of the issues shaping Eastern Kentucky. The Class of 2026 will continue its journey with monthly sessions across the region through June 2026.

 
 
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is located at 178 College Street in Pikeville and serves more than 400 businesses in eight Eastern Kentucky Counties: Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike. The Chamber’s mission is to serve the businesses of Southeastern Kentucky through a commitment to networking, advocacy, education, and collaboration as we partner together to enhance the business climate in our region.
 
 
 
 
Media Contact:
Merisa Ferrell
Director of Programs & Media
Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce
merisa@sekchamber.com
(606) 432-5504