Leadership Lexington graduates drive community impact with diverse initiatives
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Community-focused projects developed by Leadership Lexington participants are shaping Lexington's future, addressing issues from youth financial literacy to nonprofit engagement, according to Commerce Lexington.
The most recent graduating class completed the program in June with 51 members, building on nearly five decades of community-driven innovation. Each year the class completes up to four community projects addressing real challenges facing the city.
Recent initiatives highlight the breadth of participant impact. GenLex, which received the Distinguished Leader Award, helps young adults build financial confidence and long-term wealth-building habits through workshops. Birdie Buddies of the Bluegrass is a 12-week golf mentorship program for youth designed to strengthen mentorship bonds and build confidence.
"The Leadership Lexington Class of 2026 is an engaged, collaborative, and community-minded group of leaders," said Tyra Harbut, Commerce Lexington's Director of Leadership Development.
Since 1979, Commerce Lexington's Leadership Lexington program presented by Community Trust Bank has been cultivating Lexington leaders, producing more than 1,900 graduates. The program is incredibly competitive, selecting approximately 50 participants annually from Greater Lexington area businesses and organizations.
Since 1979, this nationally recognized leadership development program has enhanced our city in areas such as youth mentoring, public art, healthy living, hunger relief, community engagement, and more. Project work is typically completed outside of the day sessions, which makes the Leadership Lexington experience a significant time commitment.