Leadership Tri-County to Honor Regional Legends at 2026 Leader of the Year Annual Banquet
WILLIAMSBURG, KY – Leadership Tri-County (LTC) is proud to announce its 2026 Annual Banquet, a night dedicated to celebrating the people who shape the spirit and future of Southeastern Kentucky. The event will take place on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Williamsburg Convention Center, where the organization will celebrate annual Leader of the Year Dr. Jerry Jackson and present the Luminary Awards to the families of two late regional icons: Dr. John Broome and Judge Paul E. Braden.
The Luminary Award is a posthumous recognition given to leaders whose lives were defined by a "heart for the hills" - individuals who modeled the LTC core values of trust, respect, commitment, and service long after their formal roles ended.
“Our region is built on the shoulders of those who led with humility and a deep sense of neighborly duty,” said Dr. Jordyne Carmack, Executive Director of Leadership Tri-County. “Dr. Broome and Judge Braden were staples of our community. Whether in the classroom or the courtroom, they didn't just hold positions of power; they built relationships and invested in the next generation. We are honored to celebrate their lasting impact.”
About the Luminary Honorees:
Dr. John Broome: A beloved fixture at the University of the Cumberlands for nearly 60 years, "Doc" Broome was a professor, mentor, and Hall of Famer. He was known for his incredible memory for students' names and his tireless service to his church and local athletics.
Judge Paul E. Braden: A distinguished jurist of the 34th Judicial Circuit, Judge Braden served Whitley and McCreary counties with legendary integrity. Beyond the bench, his commitment to the region was seen through his work with Habitat for Humanity and his leadership in various civic organizations.
The banquet supports the Leadership Tri-County mission of identifying and developing leadership resources across Knox, Laurel, and Whitley counties. The evening will begin with a reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program and dinner at 6:00 p.m.
Tickets and tables are available for purchase by the public. Due to the significance of this year’s honorees, early registration is encouraged.
Event Details:
What: 2026 Leadership Tri-County Leader of the Year Banquet
When: March 26, 2026 | Reception 5:30 PM | Program 6:00 PM
Where: Williamsburg Convention Center
About Leadership Tri-County:
Leadership Tri-County is a non-profit organization established in 1987 as a community leadership development program designed for emerging and current leaders from Knox, Laurel, and Whitley County. We exist to empower leaders in the Tri-County area and create a stronger, more unified Southeastern Kentucky through trust, respect, commitment and service.
Media Contact:
Jordyne Carmack, PhD
Executive Director
606.224.5949
director@leadershiptrico.org
