Southeast Kentucky Chamber Holds Opening Session for Patton Leadership Institute’s Class of 2025

PIKEVILLE, KY (October 25, 2024) – The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce held Patton Leadership Institute’s (PLI) Opening Retreat for the Class of 2025 at Breaks Interstate Park on October 10-11, 2024. The retreat featured Chamber staff members Tiffany Coleman and Katie Belt, as well as Culture Docs Chief Engagement Officer, Jeff Peden as facilitators.

The opening retreat featured discussions on communication styles, historic moments that impacted the region, issues we face, and the future of Southeast Kentucky. The cohort also had numerous opportunities for networking, including a guided hike and icebreaker activities and games.

PLI remains committed to developing leadership skills and empowering individuals to drive meaningful change. Through hands-on experiences, the program equips participants with practical knowledge and valuable insights that prepare them for future success.

“The opening retreat for the PLI was a motivating and fun experience that helped us connect with each other while learning important leadership skills,” said Ashley DeLong, Graphic Designer for Appalachian Wireless and participant in the PLI Class of 2025. “Through interactive discussions and group activities, it laid a solid foundation for personal and professional growth during our time together. I'm really excited for the year ahead with PLI!”

Patton Leadership Institute Class of 2025 includes:

• Crystal Allen – Peoples Bank
• Brad Barnett – OVP Health
• John Cantrell – Food City
• Patty Clatworthy – double kwik
• Ashley DeLong – Appalachian Wireless
• Joni Fields – Pikeville Medical Center
• Jeremy Goodson – Big Sandy Community & Technical College
• Jessica Hall – ARH Our Lady of the Way
• Justin Hazlewood – University of Pikeville
• Ryan Howell – Kentucky Power
• Dorian Moe – Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Foundation
• Ezalee Pigman – Appalachian Regional Healthcare
• Libby Ratliff – Appalachian Wireless
• Melissa Rhodes – Community Trust Bank
• Tanner Slone – Food City
• Tyler Syck – University of Pikeville
• Edgar Tackett – Food City
• Stacie Taylor – Pikeville Medical Center
• Ray Terry – Big Sandy Area Development District
• Shumaila Tunio – University of Pikeville

Patton Leadership Institute is sponsored by Food City, Appalachian Wireless, Kentucky Power, and the University of Pikeville.

Patton Leadership Institute is a leadership development program of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. PLI is made up of leaders from across the Chamber’s eight-county region. Participants attend nine sessions over a nine-month period, and the curriculum weaves together topics crucial to the development of community such as education, economic development, healthcare, energy, tourism, and government. Leadership skills are integrated into each session.

For more information about the Chamber or PLI visit them online at www.sekchamber.com or call 606.432.5504.
 
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is located at 178 College Street in Pikeville and serves more than 500 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.