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Southeast Kentucky Chamber Members Honored at Kentucky Main Street Awards

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Pictured from Pikeville Main Street: Jill Dotson, Executive Director; MaryAnn Fletcher, Vice President; Whitney Thomas, Board Member; Merisa Ferrell, Board Member and Director of Programs and Media with Southeast Kentucky Chamber.

PIKEVILLE, KY — The Southeast Kentucky Chamber is proud to recognize two outstanding Chamber members, Whitney Thomas and MaryAnn Fletcher, who were recently recognized at the Kentucky Main Street Awards for their contributions to downtown revitalization and community development.

Whitney Thomas, owner of Ivy Grey, was named Entrepreneur of the Year, while MaryAnn Fletcher was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for her dedicated service to Pikeville Main Street and the broader community.

Thomas’ recognition comes after a year, defined by resilience and determination. When devastating flood struck Eastern Kentucky over Valentine’s Day weekend in 2025, Ivy Grey suffered significant damage. Thomas worked tirelessly to rebuild her business. With support from the community and assistance from the Southeast Kentucky Chamber's Back to Business Grant Program, she successfully relocated Ivy Grey to the heart of Pikeville's Main Street District.

The move allowed the boutique to reopen just in time for Hillbilly Days Festival and continue serving customers with its unique selection of clothing, gifts, and locally inspired merchandise. Today, Thomas remains committed to supporting downtown revitalization and proudly serves as a member of the Pikeville Main Street Board of Directors.

“Whitney’s story is one of perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit,” said Pikeville Main Street Executive Director Jill Dotson. “She faced significant challenges, adapted, and emerged stronger while continuing to invest in our downtown and community. We are thrilled to see her recognized with this well-deserved honor.”

Fletcher’s Volunteer of the Year award recognizes years of dedicated service and leadership. As Vice President of Pikeville Main Street, Fletcher has become known as a dependable and passionate advocate for downtown Pikeville, helping organize and support countless events, initiatives, and community projects.

One of the organization’s longest-serving board members, Fletcher consistently works behind the scenes to ensure events are successful from planning through execution. Her commitment to service extends beyond Main Street. She currently serves as President of Pikeville Pride, a Southeast Kentucky Chamber Member, and regularly volunteers with numerous Chamber events, including Hillbilly Days.

“I’m truly honored to receive this award,” Fletcher said. “Volunteers are the heat of Main Street, and every act of service helps create the connection, pride, and sense of belonging that make our communities strong. I love Pikeville, and I’m proud to bring this award home.”

The Southeast Kentucky Chamber congratulates both Whitney Thomas and MaryAnn Fletcher on their Kentucky Main Street Awards and thank them for their continued leadership, service, and investment in the future of Southeast Kentucky.
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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

Southeast Kentucky Chamber Members Honored at Kentucky Main Street Awards

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