Opening Convocation with Jared Arnett, SOAR Executive Director

“Do not make decisions out of fear of failure. If you are comfortable, you are not growing.”

These words of advice for young college students was delivered by keynote speaker Jared Arnett, founding executive director for Shaping Our Appalachian Region, Inc. (SOAR) and UPIKE alumnus, during the 2019 opening convocation ceremony.

Arnett focused his comments on the topics of opportunity, failure and the importance of a positive attitude when making decisions for the future.

Growing up in Salyersville, Ky., Arnett remembers beginning life as a college student and nervously stepping onto the campus of then Pikeville College, unaware that one day he would own his own business, be the CEO of the largest chamber of commerce in Eastern Kentucky, work for a governor, pastor a church or end up marrying the girl who sat beside him during his first college class.

Continuing to be pushed from his comfort zone, Arnett adds, “I have failed, it wasn’t fatal. I’ve had success, and it’s not final.”

Arnett values the opportunity he was given to attend Pikeville College (UPIKE) and recognizes those mentors who impacted and invested in him along the way. His faith taught him to believe that he plans his course, but God directs his steps.

Success for Arnett does not depend on titles, salaries or homes. Success is about making a difference. Arnett’s ideology led him to pursue becoming a pastor, to preach the gospel of God’s love and to seek His purpose.

“Seeing people find hope in their hopeless situations and caring more about their neighbors than themselves is a success,” said Arnett. “My agenda has been to serve.”

Presently, Arnett is moving the blueprint for the future of Appalachia forward with SOAR to ensure the regionʼs plan for the future.

“To be a difference-maker, no matter how small or large, make it a priority to serve,” said Arnett. “Help those around you and you will find success.”

President Burton J. Webb, Ph.D., honored Pike County native Eula Hall with the Baird Family Service Award. The award was instituted in 2019 to honor those who have devoted their lives to the service of others. Hall has dedicated 70 years of her experience to meeting health and social needs, removing barriers to healthcare and giving people of Eastern Kentucky a voice.