Leadership Tri-County Announces 2026 Leader of the Year Banquet Honoree
Williamsburg, Ky. — Leadership Tri-County will host its annual Leader of the Year Banquet on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Williamsburg Tourism and Convention Center. The evening will begin with a 5:30 p.m. reception, followed by the banquet program. This year’s event will honor Dr. Jerry Jackson as Leadership Tri-County’s 2026 Leader of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership and service across the Tri-County region. For the first time, the annual banquet will also feature a silent auction, hosted by the Class of 2026.
The Leader of the Year award is presented annually to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to community leadership and regional impact in Knox, Laurel, and Whitley counties. Leadership Tri-County is the area’s premier leadership development program, committed to strengthening Southeastern Kentucky by preparing individuals to lead with purpose, integrity, and collaboration.
Dr. Jackson currently serves as Chancellor at the University of the Cumberlands, where he has helped advance the institution’s mission and expand opportunities for students across the region. His leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to education, workforce development, and long-term community growth. Dr. Jackson has also served in roles focused on strengthening higher education, student success, and institutional excellence, bringing decades of experience to his work in Kentucky.
“Leadership Tri-County is proud to recognize Dr. Jerry Jackson as our 2026 Leader of the Year,” said Jordyne Carmack, Executive Director. “His steady, service-driven approach to leadership has impacted countless lives through education and community advancement. He represents the very best of what it means to lead in Southeastern Kentucky.”
The banquet also serves as a key annual gathering for Leadership Tri-County supporters, alumni, business partners, and community leaders. Proceeds from the event help support Leadership Tri-County’s programming and its mission to develop, connect, and equip leaders who will shape the future of the region.
Tickets and tables are now available for purchase. To learn more or reserve your seat, visit www.leadershiptrico.org/banquet
Event and Ticket Information:
Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Reception at 5:30p)
Location: Williamsburg Tourism and Convention Center
Tickets: Individual tickets are available for $50. Full tables can be reserved for $400.
Sponsorships: Gold ($1,000) and Silver ($500) sponsorship opportunities are available.
Tickets and sponsorships can be secured through the Leadership Tri-County website or by contacting Jordyne Carmack at director@leadershiptrico.org.
About Leadership Tri-County
Leadership Tri-County is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1987. Connecting emerging and current leaders across the Tri-County area, LTC provides a nine-month journey of learning, service, and regional networking. With nearly 600 alumni, the organization remains committed to building long-term leadership capacity through intentional relationships. For more information, visit leadershiptrico.org.
