Announcing the LTC Class of 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2025 –
Leadership Tri-County Announces Class of 2026
Leadership Tri-County is proud to introduce the Class of 2026, a cohort of emerging and current leaders from Knox, Laurel, and Whitley counties who will embark on a nine-month journey to learn, serve, and lead together across southeastern Kentucky. The program runs September 2025 through May 2026 and blends site visits, skill-building, and regional networking to strengthen civic leadership across the Tri-County area.
“Relationships are built intentionally over time—that’s why this program spans the full year and moves across the region,” said Dr. Jordyne Carmack, executive director. “This class will deepen their leadership skills while building trusted, cross-county relationships that last.”
The Class of 2026 reflects Leadership Tri-County’s ongoing commitment to its mission. These remarkable individuals have been selected for their leadership potential and passion for serving the community. Their participation will not only strengthen their leadership abilities but also contribute to the progress of the entire southeastern Kentucky region.
Meet the Class of 2026:
Courtney Bidwell - University of the Cumberlands
Mitch Buchanan - KCEOC Community Action Partnership
Amanda Buchanan - 606Skin
Eric Burke - JBK Roofing
Tyler Caldwell - Laurel County Health Department
Andrea Creekmore - CHI St. Joseph London
Katie Fortney - Cornett Enterprises
Angelia Foster - Baptist Health Corbin
Angela Fuller - Fabulous Nails & Salon
Whitley Gatliff - Appalachian Regional Healthcare
Regina Lockaby-Vaughn - Baptist Health Corbin
Makynzie Miller - Union Commonwealth University
Sydney Mullins - Breaktime Vending
Renee Nicholson - London Women’s Care
Keely Peterson - Dayspring Health
Seth Raney - Forcht Bank
Tara Robinson - Kentucky Highlands
Ryan Sergent-Payne - Union Commonwealth University
Rusty Siler - KCEOC Community Action Partnership
Brian Sutton - Department of Homeland Security
Rebecca Taylor - Highlands Housing
Jaimie Tomaw - Tomaw Law, LLC
Scarlett Turner - London-Laurel County Chamber of Commerce
Since 1987, Leadership Tri-County has connected nearly 600 alumni across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, building a regional network grounded in trust, respect, commitment, and service. Participants gain practical leadership skills, a stronger understanding of regional assets and challenges, and a cross-county network they can activate at work and in the community.
We extend a special thank you to our program sponsors for the Class of 2026:
Session sponsorship opportunities are available for the 2025–2026 program year.
Leadership Tri-County (est. 1987) connects emerging and current leaders from Knox, Laurel, and Whitley counties for a September–May regional leadership journey featuring cross-sector program days, site visits, and a community project. Grounded in trust, respect, commitment, and service, LTC equips participants to learn, serve, and lead for a more unified Southeastern Kentucky. Learn more or get involved at leadershiptrico.org.
For questions or to get connected, please contact:
Jordyne Carmack | Executive Director
director@leadershiptrico.org | 606.224.5949
