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From early childhood classrooms to college campuses and innovative learning centers, Leadership Bowling Green participants experienced a dynamic, behind-the-scenes look at the people, places, and partnerships shaping education and workforce development across our community. On January 14, 2026, members of the Leadership Bowling Green class stepped out of the classroom—so to speak—and into the environments shaping the future of South Central Kentucky. Education Day offered an immersive look at how early education, K–12 systems, higher education, and workforce development intersect to create opportunity across the region. Through meaningful conversations and hands-on experiences, participants gained a deeper appreciation for the partnerships that help students and communities thrive.
The day began at the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce with breakfast and a warm welcome from Kelsey Crowe, Chair of the 2026 Leadership BG class. Her remarks set the tone for a day centered on collaboration, connection, and long-term impact. Participants also heard from Penny Bowles of the Bowling Green Police Department, who reflected on the recent Police Ride Along experience and emphasized the value of understanding diverse perspectives when leading in the community.
The class’s first stop was the Warren County Public Schools Early Learning Academy, where Principal Stephanie Paynter welcomed participants for a tour of early childhood education in action. WCPS Assistant Superintendents Dr. Sarah Johnson and Kyle Cassady guided the group through the facility and shared how the district approaches early learning and kindergarten readiness.
Next, the group headed to Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, where Dr. Michelle Trawick, Ph.D., President and CEO, welcomed the class and led a comprehensive tour. Participants learned how SKYCTC expands access to higher education while directly supporting workforce preparation and industry needs.
The morning continued at Western Kentucky University’s Amy and David Chandler Hall, beginning with a welcome from Dr. Evelyn Thrasher, Dean and Professor of Analytics & Information Systems at WKU’s Gordon Ford College of Business. Participants then heard from Rob Clayton, Superintendent of Warren County Public Schools, and Gary Fields, Superintendent of Bowling Green Independent School District, who discussed shared challenges, innovative practices, and opportunities for collaboration across K12 school systems.
After lunch, generously sponsored by Pinnacle Financial Partners, Sandra Baker, Vice President of Education & Workforce for the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, provided an update on SCK LAUNCH and the Chamber’s talent development initiatives. Her presentation reinforced the critical role strong partnerships between education, business, and community organizations play in building a future-ready workforce.
The afternoon featured a forward-looking discussion led by Jon Sowards, President and CEO of the South Central Workforce Development Board. His session, “Workforce Development: Today’s Reality, Tomorrow’s Needs,” challenged participants to think beyond current demands and consider how today’s leadership decisions will shape opportunities for future generations.
The day wrapped up with site visits to Bowling Green High School’s new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Building, led by Principal Kyle McGraw and Assistant Principal Tara Coomes. The class then put on hard hats for a tour of the Impact Center for Leadership & Innovation (currently under construction), where Principal Dr. Cody Rich shared how innovative learning environments are being designed to prepare students for future success.
Education Day offered powerful insight into how education and workforce development connect—and how collaboration across all education entities continues to move Bowling Green and Warren County forward.
The class concluded the day with reflection led by Chair Kelsey Crowe, followed by class business and an after-hours social at the Mustang Club Speakeasy.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Day Chairs, presenters, and partners who made Education Day possible. Through these shared experiences, the Leadership BG Class of 2025–2026 gained valuable insight into the people, programs, and collaborations strengthening education and opportunity throughout our community.
A Special Thank You to Our Leadership Bowling Green Alumni Day Chairs for Planning Education Day:
- Jerilyn Bristow, House on the Hill, Class of 23–24
- Kyle Cassady, Warren County Public Schools, Class of 23–24
- Bryan Downing, Warren County Government, Class of 24–25
- Jeff Peake, WKU, Class of 23–24
- Jason Rose, Pinnacle Financial Partners, Class of 2008
- Brandy Zackery, ACES, Class of 2017
- Dr. Sarah Johnson, Warren County Public Schools, Class of 24–25
Thank You to Our Partners:
- Pinnacle Financial Partners – Lunch & Coffee Sponsor
- Arnold Consulting Engineering Services – Snacks & Drinks
Thank you for being the Champion Partner for the Leadership BG Class of 25-26:
