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MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS p . 5 1
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RO O STE R BOOST ER RECA P SEPTEMBER Sponsored by Brescia University, the September Rooster Booster celebrated both the power of higher education and a century of service by one of Owensboro’s most respected institutions. Dr. Aaron Thompson, President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, served as the featured speaker, delivering a compelling message about the critical role education plays in strengthening communities and economies across the Commonwealth. The program also honored Brescia University’s 100th anniversary, reflecting on its rich history rooted in the vision of the Ursuline Sisters of Mount Saint Joseph. From its founding as a junior college for women in 1925 to its evolution into a university with more than 50 academic programs, Brescia has remained committed to academic excellence and community impact. The event highlighted how Brescia alumni — educators, healthcare professionals, business leaders, and public servants — continue to carry forward the mission of lifelong learning and service.
Sponsor:
Speaker:
DR. AARON THOMPSON President of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education
OCTOBER Sponsored by Owensboro Community and Technical College (OCTC), the October Rooster Booster celebrated National Manufacturing Month with a special program titled Made in Owensboro: The Heart of Manufacturing. The event recognized the region’s proud manufacturing heritage and honored the local workforce that continues to drive innovation and economic growth in Greater Owensboro. The featured speaker was Jeff Noel, Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. With decades of experience in corporate leadership, including 18 years as Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs for Whirlpool Corporation, Noel brought valuable insight into the importance of workforce development and public-private collaboration in today’s economy. The event also spotlighted OCTC’s commitment to workforce readiness, showcasing how the college’s five regional campuses and 30+ programs are aligned with local industry needs. With most graduates staying in the region and 90% finishing without educational debt, OCTC continues to play a key role in strengthening the pipeline of skilled talent for Owensboro’s thriving manufacturing sector.
Sponsor:
Speaker:
JEFF NOEL
Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
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Shop Owensboro, Powered by Independence Bank, returns November 29– December 6. This premiere event reflects the very heart of who we are as a community: one that values small business, celebrates entrepreneurship, and supports our neighbors. The event kicks off on Shop Small Saturday, November 29, at Independence Bank’s Frederica Street branch. Doors open at 9 a.m., where the first 500 shoppers will receive the signature green bags filled with coupons, special offers, and surprises from participating Chamber Member businesses. With over 70 local businesses participating in 2024, these are exclusive deals you won’t want to miss. To keep you fueled, a local coffee truck will be on-site that morning, ready to keep you warm as you head out to keep your money where your heart is. Bring your friends and family and start your holiday shopping the Owensboro way. Running through Saturday, December 6, Shop Owensboro is more than a shopping event; it’s a local tradition that brings joy and spirit to our community. Each purchase made at a local business keeps dollars in our community, strengthens jobs, and ensures our community continues to grow and thrive. From boutiques and cafés to specialty shops and service providers, this is the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems and revisit longtime favorites. Small businesses are the heartbeat of the Chamber and the backbone of Owensboro’s economy. When we shop local, we invest in one another and together, we make Owensboro stronger. Join us this holiday season for a week-long celebration of shopping local! If you are interested in signing up your business for Shop Owensboro, Powered by Independence Bank or you would like more information reach out to Julia Brooks, Chamber of Commerce Director of Events and Communications, at jbrooks@owensboro. com or call the Chamber office at 270-926-1860.
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Inc.
LLC
Brenda Clayton, CPA
Hartz Contracting, LLC
Owensboro Public Schools
Allegheny Petroleum Products Co.
Brewco Marketing Group
Hayden Electric Inc.
Owensboro Racing and Gaming
CRFTD Web Development
Bruce’s Tri-State Roofing & Sheet Metal
Health and Safety Sciences, LLC
Owensboro Riverport Authority
Hendrick Screen Company
Bryant Corporation
Heritage Christian School
Owensboro-Daviess County Industrial Foundation
Budget Blinds of Owensboro
Home Instead
Buffalo Wild Wings
Hometown IGA
Caretenders
IES Kentucky LLC
Carpet One Floor and Home
Jeremy Bradley MD, PSC
Cecil Farms Produce
Kaiser Aluminum Warrick
Cheetah Clean Carwash - Hwy. 54
RE/MAX Professional Realty Group, Glenn Ashby
Karen Gross, Realtor
Regional Land Title Company
Chick-fil-A Highway 54
Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Chris Hoskins
Reid’s Orchard
NEW MEMBERS
Garmong Construction Gomez Contracting Inc Grex Construction Holes to Go Owensboro Logan Barrow - Shelter Insurance Malibu Jack’s Owensboro Nona‘s Market Catering Paws and Claws Boarding and Grooming Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ohio Valley Scooter’s Owensboro 1,Inc Silver Angels of Kentucky Owensboro, LLC St Pius Tenth Parish Church and Daycare University of Southern Indiana Corporate Partnerships and Customized Training Welcome House, Inc. Zap Electric
RENEWALS
Conexon Connect Courtyard by Marriott Owensboro Daniel Pitino Shelter, Inc David P. Taylor Antiques
Kentucky Youth Chorale/Institute for Young Musicians KimiWeb King’s Great Buys Plus
Daviess County Farm Bureau Federation
KORT - Physical Therapy
Deaconess Clinic
Marshall Ventures
Digital Group LLC
Martha Fitts Clark
Diversified Management, Inc.
Martin Custom Building Inc.
Donatos Pizza, New Hartford Road
Marty G. Jacobs, Attorney Matthew 25 AIDS Services
Donatos Pizza, West Parrish Avenue
McEnaney Family McDonalds Hwy. 60 East
Elevator Solutions Inc.
Meadow House Home, Gift & Floral
Owensboro NAACP Branch 3107
PeezO’s Pizza Prairie Farms Dairy RE/MAX Professional Realty Group
Riney Hancock CPAs PSC Risner & Associates, JoAnn Risner Riverfront Appraisals Rize & Shine Services, LLC Rock N Roll Sushi Owensboro Ruoff Mortgage Schrecker Supply Co., Inc. Scott Baird Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc. Southwire Company Spectrum Transportation Corporation Steinkamp Home Center Stretch Zone
270 Homes Group of Keller Williams Elite
Express Employment Professionals
323 Staffing Solutions
Flat Lick Grain Farms, LLC
54 Pizza Express - East
Fraternal Order of Eagles 4168
Adorn Salon & Boutique
Friends of the Library
Aerek Automation
Furniture Warehouse
Alpha Laser & Imaging, LLC
German American
Angela Clark, Tony Clark Realtors
Goodywn Mills Cawood
Associated Engineers, Inc Aull Appraisals
Green River Area Development District
Barnhart Crane and Rigging
H & R Block
Behavior Associates, LLC
H.L. Neblett Community Center
Beltline Electric Co., Inc.
Hampton Inn Owensboro South
Beverly’s Hearty Slice
Hampton Inn Owensboro South
Owensboro Garage Door
Visit Owensboro
Big River Rubber & Gasket Co.,
Happy House Cleaning Service,
Owensboro Health Healthpark
Zaxby’s
First Baptist Church
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Mechanical Systems Inc.
T & W Valve and Machine Co. Inc. The Earle
Modern Welding Co. of Owensboro, Inc.
The Eric Group
Norman King Electric, Inc.
The Party Space Place
Norton Children’s Hospital
The Pub On Second, LLC
OASIS, Inc.
TownePlace Suites Owensboro
Ohio Valley Nephrology Associates, P.S.C. Old Hickory Bar-B-Q, Inc. OMICO, Inc. Owensboro Christian Church Owensboro Community and Technical College
Trident Painting LLC Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Frederica Street Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Hayden Road US Lawns - Owensboro Valor Oil
BETTER TOGETHER
MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS Members helping Members is at the heart of Owensboro’s thriving small business and nonprofit community. This month, we’re highlighting two examples of this giving and collaborative spirit. HILL VIEW FARMS AND CECIL FARMS ANNUAL FARM-TO-TABLE DINNER The Chamber and Hill View Farms celebrated the 11th Annual Farm-to-Table Dinner this September, a tradition that unites community and agriculture. Over the years, it has grown into one of Owensboro’s most anticipated fall gatherings, bringing neighbors together to enjoy fresh, local food. This year’s beneficiary was the Owensboro Catholic High School FFA chapter, and students showcased their talents by prepping and serving the meal. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, the dinner raised more than $16,000 to support the chapter’s programs. The event once again proved that when the community comes together, everyone benefits, from local farms to future leaders.
PIZZA WEEK SHOWCASES LOCAL COLLABORATION Owensboro Times Pizza Week featured 28 participating restaurants, many of which are Chamber member businesses, that rolled out creative new pizzas for a 10‑day event designed to celebrate the local food scene and drive community support. To help diners navigate the offerings, OT released an official Dining Guide with maps, photos, and descriptions of each pizza creation. This spirit of collaboration was evident when restaurants stepped in to assist one another during high demand — one business ran out of dough and another offered to share inventory so no one was left behind. Such mutual support points to how Chamber members actively uplift one another, reinforcing that Pizza Week is as much about community and partnership as it is about taste.
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CHAMBER MEMBERS OF THE WEEK
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century. Today, with a membership base of nearly 1,000, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives, serving as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
SEPTEMBER
AMERICA’S CAR-MART
America’s Car-Mart in Owensboro is focused on offering affordable vehicles and personalized financing options, especially for customers with credit challenges. Under new leadership, the dealership has emphasized community service and building long-term customer relationships through flexible payment plans and service contracts.
MISTER SPARKY OF NORTHWEST KENTUCKY
Mister Sparky of Northwest Kentucky recently opened in Owensboro, bringing a punctual, customer-first approach to residential electrical service. With a “We’re On Time, You’ll See, Or The Repair Is Free” guarantee, the company is focused on delivering dependable service backed by strong local leadership.
MALONE WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS
Malone Workforce Solutions has expanded its Owensboro office and now provides recruiting and placement services across a wide range of industries. With a mission to connect job seekers with long-term opportunities, the company is helping meet workforce demands in manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond.
CHAMBER AMBASSADOR O F T H E M O N T H SEPTEMBER
MANDIE HICKS
Mandie Hicks is a local insurance agent for Kentucky Farm Bureau and has been in the insurance industry for 20 years. She helps families with home, auto, life, and health insurance at the Kentucky Farm Bureau location on Frederica Street. Born and raised in Daviess County means her heart is fully invested here and invested in providing the best insurance experience to Daviess County Families. Mandie is very involved in the community, devoting a lot of her time to the Chamber, the Green River Building Industry Association, and St. Jude’s Peace Mission, just to name a few. In her free time, she loves spending time with her husband, Adam and their four children.
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SUNSET ELDER LAW
YOUR WAX SPOT
Sunset Elder Law recently opened in Owensboro, offering services in estate planning, long-term care, and elder law with a focus on dignity and security for aging clients. The firm aims to help families navigate complex legal decisions with confidence and compassion.
Your Wax Spot has found success in Owensboro with its clean, inclusive approach to full-body waxing and skincare services. Owner Mary Wolf credits community support and a welcoming environment as key factors in the business’s steady growth.
OCTOBER
RETIREMENT & FINANCIAL STRATEGIES
S-SQUARED AUTOMOTIVE
Retirement & Financial Strategies helps individuals and families build confidence in their financial future through personalized planning, investments, and retirement services. Known for their relationship-first approach, the team offers long-term support for every stage of life.
S-Squared Automotive brings dealership-level expertise to local auto repair, offering services from diagnostics to engine rebuilds. Founded by ASE-certified technicians, the business prioritizes trust, transparency, and high-quality work for every customer.
OHIO VALLEY ROOFING
Ohio Valley Roofing provides high-quality residential and commercial roofing services across Western Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Their experienced team handles everything from storm damage repair to full roof replacements with a focus on honesty, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction.
OCTOBER
HOLLY CHANDLER
Holly Chandler, originally from West Tennessee, made Owensboro her home two years ago with her husband, Justin. Since then, she has been nurturing community ties, enjoying everyday life, and raising their three boys in their new hometown. With nine years at Express Employment Professionals and a background in the skilled trades, she brings both experience and enthusiasm to Owensboro. She loves church, local community events, and baking for those she cares about — and she’s excited to get to know the people and businesses that make Owensboro special.
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B O A R D M E M B E R S P OT L I G H T
TRISTAN DURBIN
Director, Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport This month’s Chamber Board Member Spotlight features Tristan Durbin, Director of the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport. Tristan began at the Airport in 2015 working part-time while attending Brescia University He was a cross-utilized agent working the Allegiant flights. In 2016, he began working full-time, while still attending Brescia full-time in the role of airfield and facilities maintenance. In 2019, Tristan moved into the operations manager role, and in 2021, he was named the Airport Director. Under his leadership, the airport continues to play a vital role in connecting Owensboro to broader markets, supporting business growth, and enhancing travel opportunities for our region.
WHAT RECENT GROWTH OR IMPROVEMENTS ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF AT THE AIRPORT, AND HOW DO YOU SEE THE AIRPORT CONTRIBUTING TO OWENSBORO’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS COMMUNITY IN THE COMING YEARS?
Over the past several years, we’ve made significant strides in improving the infrastructure at the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport, thanks to strong partnerships with our local, county, state, and federal elected officials. One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is securing over $6 million to rehabilitate both
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of our runways and our primary parallel taxiway. This is critical infrastructure that ensures safety and supports long-term growth. We also received a $2.5 million community grant to upgrade more than 75% of our airfield lighting to LED, which improves visibility, enhances sustainability, and reduces operating costs. Another major step forward was a $2.5 million investment from the state legislature to build the first new hangar infrastructure at the airport in over 40 years. Equally significant was assisting in bringing daily jet service to the community for the first time, which expands connectivity and demonstrates strong demand for regional air service. Looking to the future, we’re actively working toward the development of a new passenger terminal, which will improve the overall travel experience and allow us to better serve the region. These projects are more than just capital improvements. They’re investments in the future of Owensboro, Daviess County, and the surrounding area. A strong, wellsupported regional airport plays a vital role in economic development. It connects local businesses to national markets, makes the region more attractive to investors and employers, and provides access that helps our entire community grow.
AS DIRECTOR, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT LEADING THE AIRPORT AND WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OR MOMENTS AS AIRPORT DIRECTOR?
My favorite part of the job is seeing the direct impact our work has on the community. Whether it’s helping someone make a longawaited trip or supporting the local economy by ensuring our business leaders throughout Owensboro and Daviess County have access to the broader transportation system, the airport plays a critical role in how the region stays connected and competitive. I also genuinely enjoy leading a team that takes pride in what we do. While we operate with a small staff, every member of the team is highly trained, safety-focused, and deeply committed to keeping the airport running securely and efficiently. We’re a close-knit group that works extremely well together, and that sense of teamwork makes a big difference, especially in a fastpaced environment where coordination and attention to detail matter every single day. Their dedication is a big part of what makes our continued progress possible. Another aspect I really value is the opportunity this role gives me to stay
engaged in the broader community. I’m fortunate to serve on several local and regional boards, including the Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Board, and Wendell Foster. I also serve as President of the Kentucky Aviation Association. These roles allow me to represent the airport in larger conversations about regional growth, inclusion, and innovation, and they help keep our work aligned with Owensboro and Daviess County’s broader goals.
YOU’VE TAKEN ON A SIGNIFICANT LEADERSHIP ROLE WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU SHARE WITH THE NEXT GENERATION OF PROFESSIONALS ABOUT HAVING THE COURAGE TO STEP INTO LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES EARLY IN THEIR CAREERS?
My advice is simple: don’t wait until you feel completely ready, because growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone. If you care about what you do, are willing to learn, and take the time to listen, you’re already ahead of the curve. Also, never be afraid to ask questions. Knowing what you don’t know is as important as knowing what you do, and asking thoughtful questions will accelerate your learning and help you make better decisions. Surround yourself with people who have more experience and wisdom. They can offer guidance, support, and new perspectives that are invaluable as you grow in leadership. Leadership isn’t about having every answer. It’s about showing up consistently, making thoughtful decisions, and being open to collaboration. Stepping into leadership roles early gives you the opportunity to build resilience, confidence, and perspective that will benefit you for years to come. The community is full of opportunities for young professionals, and the community is supportive of those who are ready to lead.
WHAT HAS BEING ON THE BOARD MEANT TO YOU PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY, AND HOW DO YOU SEE THE CHAMBER’S ROLE IN SUPPORTING OWENSBORO’S GROWTH? Serving on the Chamber Board has been both a privilege and a learning experience. Personally, it’s connected me with a network of leaders who are truly invested in the future of Owensboro and Daviess County. Professionally, it’s helped me see how the airport can play a larger role in the regional economy and in supporting the broader goals of the business community. The Chamber plays a crucial role in bringing people and industries together. Whether it’s advocating at the state level, promoting local businesses, or supporting talent development, the Chamber is a powerful engine behind the region’s progress. Its collaborative approach
makes it possible for organizations like ours to align with others and make a bigger impact.
AIRPORTS THRIVE THROUGH COLLABORATION. HOW HAS THE AIRPORT PARTNERED WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES, TOURISM, OR COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS, AND WHAT OPPORTUNITIES DO YOU SEE FOR FUTURE PARTNERSHIPS THAT BENEFIT THE COMMUNITY?
Collaboration has been at the heart of many of our successes. We work closely with tourism partners to promote Owensboro and Daviess County as a destination, especially around events and festivals that drive traffic to our region. For example, we proudly support the annual air show, which attracts visitors and aviation enthusiasts from across the region, and we regularly host important events such as the Kentucky Aviation Association’s annual conference. These events not only boost tourism but also strengthen ties within the aviation community and beyond. We also maintain regular communication with local businesses to understand their
travel and logistics needs, which helps shape how we plan for future services. Many of our recent infrastructure projects, such as the runway rehabilitation, LED lighting upgrades, and hangar development, were made possible through strong relationships with elected officials and community stakeholders throughout Owensboro and Daviess County. These partnerships have brought in significant investment and are setting the stage for future growth, including the potential for a new passenger terminal. Looking ahead, I see opportunities to work even more closely with educational institutions on aviation and technical workforce development, and with private partners to expand services and amenities. The more we align with the needs and vision of the community and the surrounding region, the more we can position the airport as not just a transportation hub, but a true asset to our community’s future.
SPONSORSHIPS AND NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN For more or information visit chamber.owensboro.com or call the Chamber at (270) 926-1860
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NATIONAL CIVICS BEE The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a Regional Partner, along with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, to bring the National Civics Bee to Owensboro, Kentucky, for the 2025-2026 program year. This annual initiative, now expanding to all 50 states in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, invites middle school students to showcase their civics knowledge, engage in their communities, and build trust in others and institutions through a nonpartisan, multi-round competition. The National Civics Bee begins with a written essay and culminates in live events at the regional, state, and national levels. Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C. will compete for cash prizes, national recognition, and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. Thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state may also secure a $5,000 donation for their school. The essay application portal opened on September 8, 2025, and closes on February 3, 2026. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have an opportunity, and responsibility, to reignite civic learning across
the country,” said Ashtin Warren, Director of Talent Programs with the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. “The National Civics Bee is a chance for our youth to strengthen their civics knowledge, sharpen their writing and public speaking skills, and gain the confidence to contribute to their community. We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to our region.” Information about the four-part civicsrelated prompt can be found at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation website. Finalists selected from the essay round will present their ideas and compete in a live, quizstyle civics competition hosted by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce in spring 2026. Regional winners will advance to the Kentucky State Competition to be held in
summer 2026 with a National Championship in Washington, D.C. in Fall 2026. Entry is free, and students across the region in public, private, charter, and homeschool settings are encouraged to participate. Schools throughout the region are invited to participate in this year’s National Civics Bee. Together, we can promote civics knowledge not only in the classroom, but also in workplaces and throughout our communities, building a stronger foundation for the next generation of informed and engaged citizens. For more information about entering the National Civics Bee, visit nationalcivicsbee. org. For additional information about the Regional Competition of the National Civics Bee, please contact Ashtin Warren at awarren@owensboro.com or 270.926.1860.
All students in sixth, seventh, and eighth grade are encouraged to apply. For more information, scan here:
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CULTIVATING COMMUNITY
The 2025 Rick Kamuf Agri-Business of the Year Award was presented to Clint Hardy and the Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service, honoring their outstanding commitment to agriculture, education, and community service. Created in memory of Chamber Board Member and beloved community leader Rick Kamuf, the award reflects the values he held dear — faith, family, hard work, and the importance of bridging the gap between traditional business and farming. Rick’s legacy lives on through this recognition, which celebrates those who embody his spirit and dedication to both the land and the people who depend on it. This year’s recipients demonstrated a deep passion for their work, a love for the community, and a mission to bring agriculture into everyday life — serving everyone from urban families and senior citizens to curious young minds. Through their continued outreach and education, Clint Hardy and his team are helping to grow a stronger, more connected Daviess County — one field, garden, and classroom at a time.
A TASTE OF EXCELLENCE
The 2025 Chamber Member of the Year Award was presented to The Miller House, a family-owned business that has spent nearly two decades serving Owensboro with excellence, hospitality, and community spirit. A pioneer in downtown Owensboro’s renaissance, The Miller House helped transform the local dining scene in the early 2000s and continues to draw national and international attention with one of the world’s largest bourbon collections. Known as a top destination for visitors, a favorite for corporate gatherings, and a beloved spot for locals, the restaurant has become a cornerstone of Owensboro’s cultural and culinary identity. In honoring The Miller House, the Chamber recognized not just a successful business, but a steadfast community partner — one that has consistently invested its time, talent, and heart into helping Owensboro thrive.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
The 2025 Bill Young Leadership Award, presented by the Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation, was awarded to Scott McCain, a 2002 graduate of Leadership Owensboro, in recognition of his decades of dedicated service and impactful leadership across the community. Established in 1984 by Marilyn Young in honor of her late husband, the award reflects the couple’s belief that with business success comes the responsibility to give back and foster strong leadership for future generations. Each year, the award honors a Leadership Owensboro alum who exemplifies those values through ongoing civic involvement and a deep commitment to community betterment. Scott McCain was recognized for his tireless efforts, courageous leadership, and unwavering dedication to economic development in Owensboro. His longstanding support of the RiverPark Center and his advocacy for the region’s growth made him a deserving recipient of this year’s honor — continuing the tradition of excellence that defines the Bill Young Leadership Award. N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 5 Owensboro Living
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CHAMBER CURRENT The Leadership Owensboro Class of 2026 has officially begun its journey with a record number of participants, with 36 individuals who embody leadership potential, community spirit, and a shared desire to strengthen the quality of life in the Greater Owensboro region. To kick off their program year, class members participated in a two-day retreat designed to build connections, spark dialogue, and lay the groundwork for the months ahead. The retreat featured team-building exercises, opportunities to learn from one another, and thought-provoking sessions led by community leaders on topics ranging from ethics and civic responsibility to the history and future of Owensboro. These experiences provided participants with both a deeper understanding and a broader perspective of the community they are preparing to serve. Over the next nine months, the Class of 2026 will meet monthly for full-day sessions covering key aspects of community life including Economy and Innovation, Education, Healthcare, Local Government, Justice, Philanthropy, Arts and Culture, and Human Needs and Services. Through behind-the-scenes access, immersive learning, and candid conversations with decision-makers, class members gain unique insight into the strengths and challenges shaping Greater Owensboro. “One of my goals for Leadership Owensboro is to develop a deeper understanding of community resources to better connect with and serve both my colleagues and the public,” said class member Sergeant Joni Bocianoski, Daviess County Detention Center. “In addition to utilizing the insights from speakers to develop innovative strategies for team building, conflict resolution, and enhancing morale among my staff, I hope to expand my professional network within the Owensboro community to gain new perspectives on leadership and community engagement.” Ultimately, Leadership Owensboro is more than a program—it is an investment in the future of our city and region. By equipping class members with enhanced leadership skills, civic awareness, and opportunities for collaboration, the program ensures that these individuals will be the driving force in moving Greater Owensboro forward.
LEADERSHIP OWENSBORO CLASS OF 2026
Rhonda Bergstrom Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Kyle Best Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc.
Sgt. Joni Bocianoski
Sheila Crowe
Katy Hart
Jarrod McCarty
Cory Smith
Pinky’s Snowcones
Valor Oil
Morley
Emily Davis
Richard Hayden
Daviess County Public Library
Grant Miller
RiverValley Behavioral Health
Owensboro Municipal Utilities
Robyn Edgell
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Mandie Hicks
RiverValley Behavioral Health
Kentucky Farm Bureau
Lakeia Nard
Logan Johnson Owensboro Public Schools
Melanin Children Matter, Inc.
Daviess County Detention Center
Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service
Jake Boswell
Tara Estes
Michelle Nobles
Independence Bank
Nick Jones
Baird Trust Co (The Settles Group)
Owensboro Health HealthPark
RiverValley Behavioral Health
Kyler Fannon
Bryan Kennedy
Todd Palmer
Morgan Brown Regional Water Resource Agency
Nico Bustamante Aguirre Old National Bank
Capt. Alex Coomes Daviess County Sheriff ’s Office
Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport
Drew Frey Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Zach Gilles Alltech, Inc.
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Green River Area District Development (GRADD)
Julia Kimbrell Brooks
Nina Solis
Samantha Taylor-Kaai Audubon Area Community Services
Carsten Tindle Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County
Brigette Wayne
Brescia University
Owensboro Municipal Utilities
Jacqueline Russell
Kristi Winkler
Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Lisa Knott
Khaibar Shafaq
Lt. Courtney Yerington
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Owensboro
Owensboro Police Department
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline, Inc.
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ENGAGE OWENSBORO:
CONNECTING PASSION WITH PURPOSE There is no shortage of ways to give back in our community. The challenge is knowing where to look and how to begin. Engage Owensboro, an online platform through the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, is designed to turn interests into action by connecting community members with local opportunities to serve, lead, and grow. Engage Owensboro is a gateway to meaningful community involvement, whether it is for a young professional, an experienced leader, or just someone eager to contribute their skills and leadership capabilities where they are most needed. Designed to support local talent development, recruitment, and retention, this tool allows individuals to create a profile, explore organizations, and express interest in causes that matter most to them. In turn, organizations can post openings ranging from nonprofit board positions to internships and volunteer opportunities. Those organizations can then review candidate profiles and directly connect with those that match their needs. For example, if there is an individual with a passion for nonprofits that serve a certain demographic and has a background in finance, Engage Owensboro could match them with a local organization seeking a board treasurer. This aligns purpose with expertise in a way that benefits both the individual and the organization. More than just a connection tool, Engage Owensboro fosters stronger leadership, deeper community ties, and a more vibrant civic network. It also ensures that the right people find the right opportunities to build a brighter, more engaged Owensboro. The upgrades to Engage Owensboro were made possible through the generous support of the Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation, whose commitment to community engagement and leadership continues to inspire lasting impact. If you are ready to turn your passion into purpose, visit chamber.owensboro.com/engageowensboro to learn more and get started today!
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
WENDELL FOSTER’S AQUATIC CENTER
A TIME-HONORED TRADITION Ribbon Cuttings are so special to local businesses and organizations. The tradition of a Ribbon Cutting is most commonly known to celebrate a grand opening, but Chamber Members also use a Ribbon Cutting to celebrate renovations, anniversaries, new locations, and joining the Chamber. 7 BREW
DON MARIO’S WINDRIDGE
HEALTHY BRAIN AND BODY
OWENSBORO FAMILY YMCA INFANT AND TODDLER CHILD CARE UNIT
SUNSET ELDER LAW
THE EARLE
62 Owensboro Living N O V E M B E R / / D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 5