42 minute read
Special Section
Photos taken by Keni Parks and Mike Cyrus Features written by Peter Chawaga
Bluegrass Properties Group
Opening in November 2020, Bluegrass Properties Group has quickly separated itself as a locally-focused, highlyknowledgeable real estate fi rm under the leadership of owner and principal broker Mary Ann Morris.
“The most rewarding part of my job is watching the realtors within our brokerage grow professionally and personally,” Morris said. “I enjoy educating and keeping the realtors informed of all the changes in this very fl uid market.” Bluegrass Properties Group helps support its community by sourcing all of its signs, marketing materials and even furniture from locally-owned businesses, and it offers clients unparalleled insight into the region’s real estate market. And Morris is sure to extend that support to her own team members as well through her nurturing leadership style. “As a leader, I am very servant oriented,” she explained. “My focus is always the team’s growth and wellbeing. I listen to them and value their opinions. I am energized by their collaboration and engagement within our brokerage. To me, a great leader is someone who is a good listener, who will uphold trust and confi dence, someone who communicates the larger goals and why they are important and someone who respects, appreciates and values their team.”
RALEIGH BRUNER
The Wildcat Group
When Raleigh Bruner founded Wildcat Moving in 2010, he was determined to recruit and retain the best and the brightest movers to build the foundation of his small business. As Wildcat grew into the top-ranked moving company in Kentucky ambitious movers expressed interest in starting their own moving businesses. After recognizing the initiative of these driven individuals, Raleigh developed the ‘Mover to Manager to Partner’ program to train movers in the best practices on how to open and operate their own world-class moving company.
This pioneering training program has spawned 27 moving companies in 14 states over the last decade, creating over 1000 current jobs – from Ft. Myers, Florida, to Reno, Nevada – each built using Wildcat’s successful business model.
Locally, Raleigh expanded the Wildcat brand by spinning off ten service-based businesses to complement Wildcat Moving. The Wildcat Group now consists of Wildcat Van Lines, Wildcat Home Inspection, Wildcat Mini Storage, Wildcat Gutters, Wildcat Clean Team, Wildcat Carpet Cleaning, Ladycat Packing & Organizing, Wildcat Pressure Washing, Wildcat Auto Repair, and Wildcat Country Dog Retreat. Each entity has a managing partner at the helm to ensure quality, consistent service is delivered daily. “I am proud to have given entrepreneurial opportunities to so many deserving people.”
859-948-3553 wildcat-group.com
859-263-2801 traditionalbank.com DAN MASON
Traditional Bank
With more than three decades of banking experience, Dan Mason has learned to appreciate the opportunity to work with a talented, customer-focused team at Traditional Bank and to value the impact they have on clients.
“The best reward is working with bankers who understand the value of building relationships with their customers and their community,” said Mason who has served as President of Traditional Bank since 2020. “The leadership style I strive for is collaborative, with a focus on team success. I would describe a great leader as one who is accountable to the team, can effectively lead change, is empathetic, positive and able to focus on what is most important.” And it’s clear that Mason’s style aligns with the bank’s core values, which are refl ective of its 120 year history and the signifi cant success that it has achieved as an independentlyowned fi nancial institution.
“Communities are stronger when local businesses give back,” Mason said. “We are immensely proud of our employees for their strong sense of volunteerism in and around their local communities and throughout the Commonwealth.”
ANDY BAKER
Traditional Bank
Andy Baker, chairman and CEO of Traditional Bank, has the kind of company longevity that is rare in today’s world. He started working at the bank while attending college and became a full-time employee in 1985. Today he leads the bank with an extensive knowledge of its values and natural trajectory. “It is very fulfi lling to see our bank grow organically, through employees who believe in our culture and are motivated by taking care of our customers as well as each other,” Baker said.
“A good leader must provide clear direction and act with confi dence and conviction. Potentially just as important, leaders must commit to mentoring and developing those who will lead their organization into the future.” Having a CEO who embodies a service culture helps to set a clear identity for the bank in the communities it serves. Andy encourages employee volunteerism and champions signifi cant fi nancial support by the bank to local organizations who provide for those in need. “Traditional Bank makes it a priority to be a good corporate citizen,” he said. “It is a part of our mission that we take very much to heart.”
859-498-0414 traditionalbank.com
859-333-2526 derrickwhitakerdesign.com DERRICK WHITAKER Derrick Whitaker Design
Honing a focus on one of his favorite rooms, and one of the most challenging to renovate, Derrick Whitaker has revitalized countless kitchens in the Lexington area as the owner of Derrick Whitaker Design. He fi rst entered the design industry nearly three decades ago, and founded his fi rm in 2020 as a way to provide a higher level of service and attention to each individual client.
“Seeing the fi nal product and seeing and hearing how the space has helped a client in their everyday life is the most rewarding part of my work,” Whitaker said. “I buy most if not all of my items from local businesses. It is more important than ever to support local merchants.”
As a leader, Whitaker ensures his work is rewarding both to his team and to their clients by focusing on collaboration, expertise and execution. “I surround myself with a highly-talented group and we discuss each project in detail,” he said. “It is not solely focused on my opinion, but a more collaborative approach. To me, a great leader is someone who listens to others and can take that information and make a plan and execute it properly.”
DAVID SMYTH Family Financial Partners
“I love helping people organize their fi nancial lives,” explained David Smyth, the president and senior partner at Family Financial Partners (FFP). “It’s rewarding to work with families and see them realize their goals and dreams. Being able to work within our FFP team on a daily basis is the cherry on top!” Opening the fi rm with his business partner Alex Roig in 2005 with “a dollar and a dream,” Smyth now leads a team with the guiding principle of empowerment. “I like to enable our staff to think on their own and make great decisions within our planning process,” he said. “I’m there for them when they need me, but my leadership goal is to be hands off. At the end of the day, we are grooming the next generation of leaders here at our fi rm.”
And with a dedication to community service embodied by the Family Financial Foundation, Smyth is just as committed to serving his neighbors and clients as he is to empowering staff members. All together, it makes for a truly presidential approach.
Investment Advisory Services offered through O.N. Investment Management Company. David E. Smyth, Alexander M. Roig and Kyrk Davis are Registered Representatives offering securities through The O.N. Equity Sales Company Member FINRA/SIPC, One Financial Way, Cincinnati, OH 45242 513.794.6794. Estate planning services provided in conjunction with your licensed legal advisor.
859-219-1006 familyfinancialpartners.com
859-260-6100 baptisthealth.com/lexington CHRIS ROTY, MHA, FACHE
Baptist Health Lexington
“While it sounds cliché, the most rewarding part of my job is getting to know the people who make our organization great,” said Chris Roty, who has served as the president of Baptist Health Lexington since January. “People come to us to heal, to be cared for and comforted. Our teams take that to heart and they provide those things day in and day out, without fail. Their dedication to serving others inspires me daily.” Roty has been with Baptist Health for almost three decades across various roles in a range of Kentucky locales and, throughout that time, he’s developed a leadership style that nurtures those he works with.
“My leadership style is most closely aligned with servant leadership,” he explained. “Listening, a commitment to growth and building community are a few of the key principles of that style which I fi nd so important.” In highlighting the role that Baptist Health Lexington plays to support the local community, Roty noted that it provided nearly $44 million in charity care and subsidized losses last year, while generating nearly $287 million in wages, job creation and local spending. “Baptist Health Lexington gives back hope and health,” he concluded.
MARK YATES
Citizens Commerce Bank
With 25 years of experience in banking, Mark Yates has been an invaluable member of the Citizens Commerce Bank (CCB) team for more than a decade, culminating in his promotion to Lexington market president four years ago. Today, he leads CCB with a holistic approach to helping employees grow, inside and outside of work.
“I encourage team members to grow personally and professionally,” Yates explained. “I believe it is important to empower team members with clear objectives, providing the tools to success and inspiring them. I encourage team members to perform better today than they did yesterday.” Striving to lead by example and embody the qualities of honesty and reliability, Yates also puts strong emphasis on supporting local businesses and charitable causes, explaining that this is how the bank enacts its commitment to its neighbors. “CCB is committed to its team members, customers and communities,” he said. “CCB has supported and participated in several different opportunities to support the local communities over the years. The hope is to create meaningful, lasting change for the benefi t of our community.”
859-721-0100 citizenscommerce.com
859-251-4700 frontier.edu SUSAN E. STONE
Frontier Nursing University
Susan E. Stone has proudly served as the president of Frontier Nursing University (FNU) since 2001, following an extensive career in the fi eld. She herself maintained a nursing and midwifery career before taking on faculty positions at FNU beginning in 1993, and later becoming the school’s dean of nursing in 2000.
“I fi rst became attracted to nursing when I was a little girl and observed a public health nurse coming to my home for a family member,” Stone explained. “I thought she was just so smart and so helpful. It is one of the reasons I feel so fortunate and thankful to lead and represent a university that is fully devoted to preparing nurse-midwives and nurse practitioners to be competent, entrepreneurial, ethical and compassionate leaders.” FNU has more than 2,500 students and 8,000 alumni, many of whom have benefi ted tremendously from Stone’s leadership. The same can be said for the institution’s faculty and staff members.
“My goal is to assure that the faculty and staff have the environment, skills and resources they need to do the best possible job,” Stone said. “If I can do that, they will provide great service to our students, which provides the best path to success.”
J. TAYLOR DAVIS
DFG Advisory
“Day to day, I get to wake up and go to sleep with an intense feeling of gratitude because my day is fi lled with opportunities to deliver a client-centered experience revolving around a plan to protect and prosper,” Davis explained. After founding DFG Advisory, immediately upon graduating from Eastern Kentucky University, J. Taylor Davis and his team quickly earned a prestigious ranking in Northwestern Mutual’s top-20 fi rms in 2021, after just four years in the industry. An honor he attributes to the clients he works with and the relationships they forge. Davis says his leadership approach is simple: “I always focus on leading by example and never ask others to do anything I haven’t already done or am willing to do myself.” This clearly resonates with his clients and his team, as DFG Advisory continues to grow by hiring and developing more leaders, doubling down on productivity, and focusing on taking its value proposition across the country. But even with national clientele, Davis expresses the need to support local businesses. “At the end of the day, we’re all we’ve got,” he said. “When you need that one connection, that one subject matter expert or that one mentor, you can walk up or down any street or dial any name in the local phone book and fi nd it here in Lexington. You just can’t get that online.” Ultimately, Davis’ leadership style is derived from the philosophies he follows to live a generous and rewarding life. “I’m a big believer that to whom much is given, much is expected,” Davis concluded. “What you give to the world will be returned to you tenfold, so make sure you’re putting out what you want to get back.”
859-899-0407 dfg.nm.com
859-254-7034 lexkymontessori.org RANDILYNN TUCKER
e i gto o tess ori l
As the head of Lexington Montessori School for nearly 15 years, RandiLynn Tucker leads by example, embodying the core Montessori philosophies of grace, courtesy and actively serving her community. “It is important to me that my teachers know I would not ask anything of them that I am not willing to do myself,” Tucker said. “Respect and kindness should be at the root of everything I do, as is understanding my job isn’t about me, it is about the school that I have the privilege to lead.” Tucker’s emphasis on community service is also core to Lexington Montessori School’s curriculum, which has included monthly trips to assisted living facilities, support for local fi re departments’ Christmas drives and, most recently, collecting items for Western Kentucky tornado victims. Through these initiatives and the school’s other unique philosophies, Tucker and her colleagues fi nd that their work is its own reward.
“Our school is tiny and we work like a family and I believe that makes us very special,” Tucker explained. “Being able to watch our students grow and mature is probably the most rewarding part of my job. Knowing we have a very small part in helping our students develop self confi dence and learn they can do whatever they set their minds to is a blessing.”
KAREN HARBIN Commonwealth Credit Union
After visiting Commonwealth Credit Union as a recent Eastern Kentucky University graduate to obtain a car loan, Karen Harbin found herself joining the company as its Chief Accountant before eventually being named its President and CEO in 2012. Since then, she’s led the business to open 12 additional branches, with three more on the horizon for next year, while taking a hands-on approach to leadership - a leadership style that has helped earn them the #1 spot on the Best-in-State Credit Unions list by Forbes. “I strive to be more than just a name on a paycheck for our team members,” she said. “I work to be a familiar face to my employees throughout our 17 branch locations and the individuals throughout the 25 countries in our service area. I never would have imagined that getting a car loan foreshadowed my being hired and eventually taking the reins as President and CEO.”
For Commonwealth Credit Union team members, knowing Harbin means knowing her passion for supporting the wider community through strategic partnerships and community service.
“We embrace parterning with organizations whose values align with ours,” she said. “We vet our partners through the social responsibility lens of health and wellness, fi nancial empowerment and the advancement and care of women and children.”
800-228-6420 ccuky.org
859-285-0614 theagencyky.com AARON ALLNUTT
The Agency, Real Estate Advisors
With more than a decade in the real estate industry, and more than four years as the founder, president and principal broker at The Agency, Aaron Allnutt has cultivated a fi rm that helps agents make the most of their careers and, in turn, perform better for clients. “The most rewarding part of my job is getting to partner with some of the best realtors in the industry, as well as train up-and-coming realtors,” Allnutt said. “I am passionate about helping agents set goals and assist in helping them achieve those goals.” Allnutt brings that same passion to the community service work performed by The Agency, which might be best known for its annual Christmas partnership with Jarrod’s Joy Cart, which sees its team members collect toys and gift cards for children who will be spending Christmas in the hospital. It’s just another way that the fi rm makes a major local impact. “We are as local as you can get and are not part of a franchise that sends money out of town every month,” Allnutt explained. “When you hire one of our agents, 100% of that money stays local.”
JANE DRAKE HALE
Bleubird Studio
Located in downtown Georgetown, Kentucky, Bleubird Studios & Suites is a welcoming destination with a great deal to offer. Georgetown’s most charming airbnb is also a yoga studio as well as a host for art exhibitions by local artists and cooking classes led by Chef Rodney of Georgetown’s Rodney’s on Broadway. Bleubird stands apart as an environment where openness to new ideas paves the way for growth. “It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to offer new experiences to this community. I am so happy to share inspiration and nurture out-of-the-box thinking,” says Bleubird Studios & Suites owner Jane Drake Hale who serves as Georgetown Rotary Club President. “It’s important to me to make a personal investment in developing Georgetown as a destination,” she adds, speaking from her experience not only with Bleubird but as a mayoral appointee to the Board of Directors of Yuko-En on the Elkhorn, The Offi cial Kentucky-Japan Friendship Garden. As a leader in the Georgetown community, Jane enjoys motivating all who come to Bleubird for shared and enjoyable experiences with positive and friendly leadership. Since she cut the ribbon for Bleubird Studios in September 2019, she has appreciated the opportunity to bring out the best in those who have actively participated in all Bleubird activities. “My approach to leadership emphasizes the value in learning as a way of growing,” Jane explains. “I take a personal, individualized approach to cultivating talent. For me, the reward is helping people unlock their potential. It is a joy to see those who come to Bleubird feel empowered.”
502-642-5125 bleubirdstudio.com
502-642-4345 cktacticalsecurity.com TOM RAMSEY
CK Tactical Security After serving in the United States Marine Corps for eight years, and wearing a variety of hats within the security industry after that. Tom Ramsey who became CEO and Chairman of the Board for CK Tactical Security incorporated, providing physical guarding in many vertical markets, as well as event security for many premier events that take place in Central KY. “I am a servant leader,” Ramsey explained of his leadership style. “I want to help people grow both professionally and personally. If you show me that you are trying and really want to take that step to the next level, I will do everything within my power to help you succeed.” In addition to his work empowering team members, Ramsey is most proud of helping CK Tactical introduce the “Community Service Scholarship,” awarded to someone who exemplifi es the importance of giving back at each of the area’s local high schools. All together, he is creating an environment where leaders have the chance to excel and those in need of an extra hand can fi nd support. “If we can’t lift each other up in our time of need, then we should reevaluate if we are leading our best life possible,” he concluded.
TUCKER BALLINGER
Forcht Bank
With more than ten years of an illustrious fi nancial services career spent at Forcht Bank, president and CEO Tucker Ballinger has established a culture of leading by example and working as a team. “My leadership style more closely models that of a coach, underscoring that together, everyone achieves more,” Balinger said. “I enjoy hiring talented individuals and watching them achieve success.I strive to lead by example and never ask anyone to do something that I have not done or am not willing to do myself.” In addition to coaching his team members at Forcht Bank, Ballinger is focused on lending a hand to the region through loans to local businesses and a dedicated community service program. “We highly encourage community service,” he explained. “In fact, all employees will receive one PTO day for completing a minimum of four hours of community service or work with a non-profi t activity. Last year, our bankers contributed over 500 hours of their time to help local non-profi ts and students in the classrooms.”
859-264-2265 forchtbank.com
859-743-6698 2dudesmovingky.com ANDREW CAREY
2 Dudes Moving
For the last 12 years, Andrew Carey and his team at 2 Dudes Moving have offered commercial and residential moving services, including labor for hire, and local and long-distance service. And in that time, Carey has led by prioritizing an honest and positive client experience.
“The most rewarding thing in our work is the positive feedback we hear from our clients and being able to help during one of the more stressful days of their lives,” Carey said. “I try to lead with the qualities of honesty, integrity, good moral character and transparency in communication.”
Carey also leads with consistent emphasis on the importance of community, understanding that his business serves neighbors and friends, not just numbers on a page. This also translates into a range of charitable work by 2 Dudes Moving.
“Recently, we’ve donated our truck to help fi ll it with essentials for the fl ood victims in Eastern Kentucky,” Carey recalled. “We have also created the 2 Dudes Moving Charitable Foundation with the Blue Grass Community Foundation. Our foundation focuses on helping those affected by food insecurity.”
LENORA COSTANZO
e ail
After taking over the existing MailRoom of Lexington in 2001, Owner Lenora Costanzo and Manager Chad Kinman have revitalized the custom packaging and crating business, serving antiques, artworks and other fi ne items in need of special care to be packed and shipped around the world. Other services they offer include notary, shredding, Penske truck rentals, faxing, transfer of fi lm media to DVD or fl ash drive as well as personal mailbox rentals. Plus, to top it off, you can take advantage of their Amazon Hub counter to pick up your Amazon package deliveries.
Describing their management style as “frontline leadership,” Costanzo and Kinman fi nd joy not just in providing these valuable services, but also in guiding their team members.
MailRoom’s positive impact also reaches the many clients who trust it with their shipping needs, no matter how unique, as well as the local environment. They’re able to ship items such as as pottery, lamps, statues, coins, antique clocks and more all over the country. With many of their customers having English as a second language, they have experience shipping to other countries such as Ireland, Australia, Germany, Mexico, Zimbabwe, India and more. “While we don’t necessarily speak their language, we try our very best to make sure they do not feel inadequate in their ability to communicate in English. We make sure we get the job done,” says Costanzo.
“We provide services not generally available at other businesses to people who need them on a very small scale,” they said. “We reuse and recycle many packing materials including boxes, styrofoam peanuts and more.”
Additionally, The MailRoom works with several local auction companies including Bluegrass Auction & Appraisal in Lexington, Rick Hayes Auction and Virgil Brown Auction in Richmond, Todd Mc Connell Auction in Paris along with many others.
You’re sure to fi nd something you need with the MailRoom!
859-268-0206 themailroomky.com
e i ia s AgencyFollowing the lead of its owner, Jessica Durphy, the team at Williams Agency, Inc. provides a variety of personal and business insurance solutions while emphasizing long-lasting relationships with clients. “The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that we are helping,” Durphy said. “Helping customers protect what matters most to them, while saving them money. It’s rewarding to have people place their trust in you. There’s something about that level of trust that holds you to a higher standard of integrity.” Durphy instills these ideals in the agency by acting as a coach, servant, pacesetter and supporter of her colleagues. She encourages them to volunteer for multiple causes in Clark County and the agency is a generous donor to local sports teams and other clubs. “A good leader is one who is willing to jump in and roll up their sleeves with the rest of the team,” she said. “A good leader is one that is motivated and always pushing for greatness. My team can tell you that you’ll often fi nd me encouraging them, speaking life into their visions, assisting them with growth and helping them achieve their goals.”
LARRY JONES
Community Trust Bank
After 50 years in banking and 20 years with Community Trust Bank specifi cally, countless clients in the region have come to trust and rely on Larry Jones. And it’s the very act of developing these relationships that has driven Jones to such an illustrious career.
“Helping people succeed is the most rewarding part of my job,” Jones, who is the Central Region President at Community Trust, explained. “We are in a relationship business, and I enjoy meeting people and making relationships.”
In addition to supporting his neighbors through business and home loan services, Jones and the Community Trust team give back by supporting a number of regional activities. And Jones’ motivation to drive the success of others doesn’t just apply to clients and neighbors — it is a central part of his management philosophy for employees as well.
“My leadership style involves letting people understand their role in the company, then getting out of the way and letting them perform,” he said. “If they need me, they can call me, and if they stray too far from the direction they need to be going, then I will have a conversation with them. I like helping employees succeed.”
859-389-5350 ctbi.com
859-543-8677 | 502-640-2900 topsinlex.com | topslouisville.com JAYME JACKSON TOPS Marketing Group
Serving as the President for TOP Marketing Group (publisher of TOPS magazine) for the last three years, Jayme Jackson has fostered an encouraging and motivational environment for team members.
“I have an open-door approach and some days it feels like there are always people sitting in my offi ce. I love that!” Jackson exclaimed. “In some companies, there is a great divide between the C-suite and employees, but I prefer being an active part of the creative process. My leadership style is simple: I am thrilled when my team succeeds and I will stay late, make calls and do whatever is necessary to help that come to fruition.”
Jackson’s hardworking approach and enthusiastic nature stem from the opportunity to do work she is truly passionate about: helping local businesses achieve their goals.
“We have clients that will tell you that when they started their companies or decided to take it to the next level, TOPS was the game changer,” Jackson said. “We have such a wonderful platform to introduce Lexingtonians to all of the resources they should be utilizing. We highlight places they should be dining, the fi nancial institutions they should be partnered with, the medical services they should be seeking and more, all wrapped together with fun, engaging content and amplifi ed by our digital marketing division.”
JEFF KOONCE
WesBanco
When WesBanco purchased his former bank six years ago, Jeff Koonce joined its team and today continues his 36-year banking career as its Central and Southern Kentucky market president. In this role, he is always sure to get to the heart of what staff, customers and businesses are asking for, and to provide them with all they need to succeed.
“The ability to listen really tops my list of leadership qualities, but other characteristics I look for include integrity, authenticity, gratitude, vision, positivity and inspiration, as well as the ability to think both strategically and critically,” Koonce said. “I fi nd it especially gratifying to watch people who I’ve had the privilege of working with succeed in their endeavors.”
Koonce also brings a personal dedication to nonprofi ts to his team, having served on the boards of Community Ventures Corporation, Shriners Medical Center’s Corporate Council, Bluegrass Care Navigators and more. Helping those in need, as well as local businesses, is just as important to him as supporting the WesBanco family. “A recent study showed that 68% of every dollar spent in a community funnels back into that community,” he explained. “Investment in local businesses strengthens the local economy, creates jobs and improves the quality of life.”
859-244-7204 wesbanco.com
859-721-1854 itsbourbon30.com HARRY T. RICHART IV
Bourbon 30 isti er At Bourbon 30 Spirits, customers will fi nd a range of expertly crafted spirits stemming from a family legacy in Western Kentucky. And behind the scenes is President and CFO Harry T. Richart IV, focused on sales, marketing, compliance, fi nance and more, with expertise derived from his time working at Woodford Reserve and Kentucky Eagle. “The most rewarding part of the job is getting to see our awesome team members grow in their professional roles as well as in their personal lives,” Richart said. “The connections I get to make with each team member on a daily basis are highly rewarding.” In addition to fi ne spirits and the growth of staff, Richart emphasized the role that Bourbon 30 is playing to support veterans and fi rst responders through aid to non-profi ts. Over the last few years, it has worked with Camp Brown Bear and Kentucky Wounded Heroes, and it has donated funds to many other groups as well. Ultimately, under Richart’s leadership, Bourbon 30 is a spirits company that is poised to grow thanks to an independent and dedicated team. “I think that it’s vital to avoid micromanaging,” Richart explained. “I’ve found the team is at its most creative and innovative when it is allowed to be free.”
CRISTY SHARP
LadyCat Packing & Organizing
LadyCat Packing & Organizing recently celebrated its fi fth anniversary of helping local clients organize, pack, unpack, stage, move and generally create more peaceful and organized living environments. In that time, co-owner Cristy Sharp has cultivated a company that regularly receives incredibly rewarding feedback.
“Many people express that they are so appreciative and thankful,” Sharp recalled. “Some people express that it’s the best money they have ever spent, and have even shed tears of happiness when they see the amazing job that our staff did.”
Sharp added that perhaps the most rewarding part of her work is being able to help those who have physical limitations or emotional attachments to organize, pack and achieve a clutter-free environment that grants them peace of mind.
“I am very passionate about providing high-quality services so that our clients are happy and thankful,” Sharp said. “I run a pretty tight ship and have high expectations for our team members, but I also try to ensure they feel valued and respected. I encourage feedback and open communication.”
859-948-3397 ladycatorganizing.com
859-233-3157 sstire.com BROOKS SWENTZEL
S&S Tire
After opening its fi rst retail auto service center in the 1970s, Lexington’s S&S Tire has evolved into a corporation that now encompasses a commercial and wholesale footprint across 16 states. But, as President Brooks Swentzel noted, S&S is still a family-owned and operated company, with all of the care and consideration this includes.
“As a second-generation owner, I am invested in profi table and sustainable growth that will ensure the longevity of the company,” Swentzel said. “To be a value to our customers today and tomorrow, we must be operationally effi cient — functioning fi scally and procedurally like a corporation, but cultivating customer relationships like the trusted, family-owned business that we are.”
To do that, Swentzel emphasizes core values of developing and supporting employees, and leading as someone who listens to and learns from employees’ own experiences and expertise. “My energy is invested in building a great team with a variety of backgrounds and experiences that will execute the vision we have for the future,” Swentzel explained. “To build a great team, we have to establish honest and transparent communication, be accessible and responsive, reward hard work and strong performance, and empower employees to carry out our mission.”
TODD ZIEGLER
Republic Bank
After 33 years in the banking fi eld, Market President for Republic Bank Central Kentucky Todd Ziegler has learned that there is no greater professional reward than serving his teammates, customers and communities.
“I strive to be supportive and accessible for our team, I’m willing to assist and willing to get out of the way and I want to create an encouraging and accountable environment,” Ziegler said. “Transparency and trustworthiness, these qualities are critical for any leader.” After ten years with Republic Bank, seven spent in his current position, Ziegler’s team has also left its mark on surrounding neighbors by volunteering its time and making contributions to numerous non-profi t and mission-based organizations. And then there is the bank’s community loan fund dedicated to supporting small business development and job creation in communities that suffer inadequate access to capital. “There are many ways we give back to the community,” he said. “There is a direct relationship between the health of local business and the overall health of our community — it is a twoway street. When local business thrives, our community will thrive.”
859-225-5099 republicbank.com
859-440-1008 hslc.bank CHRIS JONES
HSLC Bank
Before joining HSLC Banking & Financial Services three years ago, and being named the president and CEO last year, Chris Jones spent nearly three decades honing his expertise in the lending and banking space. Today, that expertise is paying off for HSLC’s wide range of clients as well as the team members who follow Jones’ lead. “Nothing makes me happier than to see a family buy their fi rst home, a business owner expand their business or a student come in and open their fi rst bank account,” Jones explained. “I also fi nd great joy in seeing our employees succeed — seeing them land a new client or watching our investment in our people pay off when someone is promoted and growing within our organization.” While HSLC has been around for more than 134 years, it is a relative newcomer in the Lexington market. But even within the time HSLC has been here, it’s clear that Jones is eager to make his fi rm a strong community partner. “It is vitally important for us to be supporters of the charities, schools, churches and volunteer opportunities that are available in the Central Kentucky region,” he said. “Because that falls in line with HSLC’s mission of existing to help dreamers dream, makers maker and builders build.”
DR. STEPHEN BEHNKE
Lexington Clinic
In his fi rst year serving as CEO for Lexington Clinic, Dr. Stephen Behnke has already established a collaborative leadership style that engages team members at all levels to better understand where the group is succeeding and where changes may be needed — all while continuing the clinic’s century-long reputation for providing the best quality patient care. “A good leader has his/her eye on the pulse of the organization,” Dr. Behnke explained. “They keep everyone focused, engaged and passionate about the brand, which also helps build momentum and growth.” Under Dr. Behnke, the team at Lexington Clinic is committed to making the region more healthy, within the care that it provides as well as through numerous causes outside of it.
“As an organization and as individuals, we join others in supporting causes that fi ght diseases; educating our population about healthy lifestyles, disease prevention and treatment options; and informing those in Central Kentucky of their access to healthcare close to home,” Dr. Behnke said. “In fact, we believe that providing the highest value care for patients will actually make Central Kentucky a better place to live and work for generations to come.”
859-258-4000 lexingtonclinic.com
859-317-5715 amskentucky.com MARK STRINGER
ss o iatio a age e t er i es Since 2012, Association Management Services has brought value to the region’s neighborhoods as the topchoice property manager. Across a range of management, fi nancial and facility services, Owner Mark Stringer has actualized a philosophy that calls for greatness. “Nelson Mandella said there is no passion to be found by playing small and settling for a life that is less than you are capable of living,” Stringer explained. “I apply that daily in putting our staff and client needs fi rst. We strive to exceed expectations, not just meet them.” The team at Association Management Services may do that most effectively through its focus on community, and bringing the best to its friends and neighbors. In addition to sponsoring local swim teams and little leagues, as well as volunteering on community clean up days and youth recreational leagues, this means taking pride in its everyday work. “To help support local families that provide the extra touch, that go the extra mile, that gives us additional options and opportunities,” Stringer said. “That warm feeling when you walk through the front door and they know you on a fi rst name basis is truly special.”
ROSEMARY A. ALLEN, Ph.D.
Georgetown o ege
As the fi rst woman president in the 193-year history of Georgetown College, Dr. Rosemary Allen leads a vibrant Christian community in the heart of the Commonwealth.
“I arrived in 1984 for a oneyear position but remained for 38 years, becoming the 26th President of the College in January 2022. Interacting with students is the best part of my job, helping them solve problems and develop plans. This semester I also continue to be in the classroom teaching Shakespeare. “I am a collaborative leader, with a sincere belief that we are stronger when we act together. A good leader is engaged, committed, honest, and gives the organization’s success priority over their own.”
For the fi fth year in a row, Georgetown College ranks as the top college or university in Kentucky for placing graduates into jobs or graduate school. “Since 1829, Georgetown College has been graduating leaders who are key to wellbeing of the Commonwealth. As we prepare to enter our 300th year, we will continue to be an essential part of the economy and the character of the Bluegrass.”
502-863-8000 georgetowncollege.edu
859-368-9727 hickscpaslexingtonky.com DAVID HICKS Hicks & Associates CPA
With a career of public accounting experience, including work in expert witness litigation cases, fi nancial, performance, compliance and internal contral engagements, David Hicks founded Hicks & Associates CPAs in October 2011. Since then, his fi rm has met the needs of countless clients in Lexington as well as his native Somerset.
“It’s very rewarding when you satisfy a client and they put trust in your abilities to assist in guiding them through the services they need,” Hicks said. “I have many connections with local buisnesses in Lexington and throughout Kentucky, and they rely on me as I do them. We build off of each other’s strengths, knowledge, experience and, most of all, friendships.”
To maintain the types of connections and friendships that have benefi ted him so much, Hicks strives to create a positive work environment. It’s a culture that his clients benefi t from as his employees serve them with joyful attitudes.
“‘Good morning’ starts the day at our offi ce for everyone in the fi rm,” Hicks said. “I trust the experienced personnel, and they have full access to our clients. This approach allows for a more effi cient and comfortable environment within the offi ce.”
“Our students are overcoming challenges each day and are graduating from high school and becoming employed at rates higher than their peers,” explained George Stafford, the co-executive director for Jobs For America’s Graduates - Kentucky (JAG KY). “I love seeing these young men and women realize they have what it takes to achieve their goals no matter their circumstances. They are resilient, and that inspires me to work harder every day.” Stafford began his work with JAG KY in 2018 as a teacher, before transitioning to become the director of employer engagement and then into his current role in June 2021. He always wanted to be an educator, but it wasn’t until he found this organization that he could truly start his dream job. And through a leadership style that is focused on fostering the strongest team possible, he has helped JAG’s students achieve their dreams as well. The organization is starting the 2022-2023 school year with 69 programs (19 more than it had last year) that serve more than 3,750 students.
“When you empower your employees, they seem to take more pride in their work,” Stafford explained. “They will own it and take good care of it. I like to put my team in a position to succeed, which includes proper training and effective communication.”
859-407-3479 jagky.org
CHI Saint Joseph Helth As CEO of CHI Saint Joseph Health, Tony Houston, Ed.D., FACHE, leads a ministry in an ever-changing world for health care, while maintaining the deep roots planted by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Houston joined the Lexington-based system in 2020 with more than 20 years of regional healthcare experience. “At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we have a responsibility to honor and maintain the healing ministry that the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth began in 1877,” Houston said. “Our amazing team of compassionate clinicians and experts across the organization are delivering on that ministry every day, especially during diffi cult times.” That human kindness is illustrated in the many ways Saint Joseph gives back to the communities it serves. As one example, Saint Joseph facilities across the state recognized that some patients face basic needs when they leave the hospital. This year, opened Humankindness Havens that provide food, clothing and a list of community resources that provide assistance. For Houston, leadership is not just about making executive decisions — it is about creating an organization where each team member feels like they are in the best position to serve patients with the highest quality of care. “If we build a strong, open and collaborative culture of high quality and safety across all levels of the organization, everyone should feel empowered to do what is right for the patient,” Houston said. “It is important to include both clinical and business leaders in developing our strategy and process together, all while maintaining our focus on the reason we are here: the patients.”
CHI Saint Josep h Health Mourns Passing of Jeff Murphy, Vice Presiden t for Mar keting an d Communications
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CHI Saint Joseph Health is mourning the loss of Jeff Murphy, vice president for Marketing and Communications for the Lexington-based health care system and southeast division vice president for CommonSpirit Health. Murphy died unexpectedly Saturday, Aug. 13, in Lexington. “Jeff greeted everyone with a smile and his human kindness touched the lives of so many people across our ministry and in our community,” said Anthony A. Houston, Ed.D, FACHE, CEO, CHI Saint Joseph Health. “He mentored many marketing and communications professionals over his three decades of service and was much beloved across our ministry and the Commonwealth. Our hearts are broken. He will be greatly missed.” Murphy joined Saint Joseph in 1991 as part of the marketing and communications team for Saint Joseph Hospital, soon after graduating from the University of Kentucky. He served as director of marketing and communications for Saint Joseph Health Care beginning in 1998; was then promoted to regional director of marketing and communications for the former Saint Joseph Health System in 2008; and was system director and vice president for marketing and communications during the transition to and from KentuckyOne Health. He played a key role as our ministry evolved and grew from the Lexington-based Saint Joseph Hospital and Saint Joseph East, as Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, Saint Joseph Berea and Flaget Memorial Hospital joined the Saint Joseph Health System, and Saint Joseph Jessamine was built in Nicholasville. Murphy was a big fan of the arts and the Lexington community. He was a member of the executive committee for LexArts, where he served as vice chair for grants, and was a strong voice in support of the Broadway Live! series at the Lexington Opera House, as well as many other activities that brought the goodness and healing of art to Kentucky. Murphy was preceded in death by his father, John Bearl Murphy, and is survived by his mother, Janice Murphy; his sister, Jill Floyd, and her husband, Steve Floyd, as well as numerous friends within CHI Saint Joseph Health and across Kentucky.
About CHI Saint Joseph Health
CHI Saint Joseph Health, part of CommonSpirit Health, is one of the largest and most comprehensive health systems in the Commonwealth of Kentucky with 100 locations in 20 counties, including hospitals, physician groups, clinics, primary care centers, specialty institutes, home health agencies and an ambulatory Care Center. The hospitals in CHI Saint Joseph Health are Flaget Memorial Hospital, Saint Joseph Berea, Saint Joseph East, Saint Joseph Hospital, Saint Joseph Jessamine, Saint Joseph London, Saint Joseph Mount Sterling, and Women’s Hospital at Saint Joseph East. In total, the health system serves patients in 35 counties statewide. CHI Saint Joseph Health is dedicated to providing a wide array of services toward a goal of building a healthier future for all. CHI Saint Joseph Health embodies a strong mission and faith-based heritage and works through local partnerships to expand access to care in the communities it serves.
MEET THE PASTOR
Ron Edmondson, Immanuel Baptist Church
You might find Ron Edmondson on weekdays at a local coffee shop. You may find him and his wife Cheryl walking the trails at the Arboretum, on UK’s campus, or downtown on Fridays and Saturdays. You could find them at a UK sporting event or a Lexington Legends ballgame, or volunteering at the visitor’s center. Ron and Cheryl are all about Lexington and the surrounding area. In six years (from 2012 to 2018), the Edmondson family endeared themselves to the local community.
Ron always says, “To be a Kingdom-minded pastor one has to be community-minded.”
Well, good news! Once again, you will find Ron behind the pulpit on Sunday mornings at Immanuel Baptist Church.
Ron is back in Lexington as the Lead Pastor of Immanuel. In 2018, Ron moved to Dallas, Texas, to lead a well known international church leadership organization. He eventually made his way to Nashville, Tennessee, where he consulted with churches around the country.
In the spring of this year, Immanuel asked Ron to return as Lead Pastor for a second time. While neither the church nor Ron and Cheryl ever thought they would return, no doubt God had other plans. And the community will be the benefactor. Ron and Cheryl plan to be even more involved in the community this time. Both plan to serve on local boards, volunteer in community activities, and embrace everything the Bluegrass State has to offer.
Immanuel is one church with three locations, with two campuses in Lexington and one in Georgetown. Ron led the launch of the second Lexington campus before leaving in 2018. The Georgetown campus opened earlier this year. Ron’s goal is to add additional campuses in Central Kentucky over the next few years. For over 60 years, Immanuel has been broadcast on WLEX-TV18 to thousands each week throughout Central Kentucky. There are potential campuses wherever a base of viewers has been established.
Immanuel is an intergenerational and diverse community of believers. Ron’s challenge to the church has always been to love our community with the love of Christ. If you are looking for a church that will have an impact on this community, now is a great time to join us. You’ll find your place at Immanuel.
September UPCOMING SERIES
October/November December
FIND YOUR PLACE.
TATES CREEK CAMPUS
3100 Tates Creek Road, Lexington
Sunday Worship 9:30 am & 11 am
Ron Edmondson, Lead Pastor rone@ibclex.com
IBCLEX.COM
ARMSTRONG MILL CAMPUS
2261 Armstrong Mill Road, Lexington
Sunday Worship 10 am
Travis Fox, Campus Pastor travisf@ibclex.com
IBCLEX.COM/ARMSTRONGMILL
GEORGETOWN CAMPUS
Scott County High School 1080 Cardinal Drive, Georgetown
Sunday Worship 10 am
Brandt Lyon, Campus Pastor brandtl@ibclex.com
IBCLEX.COM/GEORGETOWN
