*** Agenda is tentative and subject to change. ***
8:00 a.m.
Registration and Continental Breakfast with Sponsors
8:30 a.m.
Welcome and Overview
Emcee: Ashli Watts, President and CEO, Kentucky Chamber
Introduction of Sponsor
Ashli Watts, President and CEO, Kentucky Chamber
Presenting Sponsor Comments
8:40 a.m.
A Conversation with Kentucky’s Lt. Governor, Jacqueline Coleman
Jacqueline Coleman, Lt. Governor, Kentucky
Moderator: Renee Shaw, Director of Public Affairs and Moderator, Kentucky Educational Television (KET)
Join us for an engaging conversation with Jacqueline Coleman, Kentucky’s Lieutenant Governor, as she shares insights on leadership, public service, and the Commonwealth’s priorities for growth and opportunity. Drawing from her experience as an educator, policymaker, and advocate, Lt. Governor Coleman will reflect on the challenges and opportunities shaping Kentucky’s future—from workforce development and education to economic innovation and community well-being. This moderated discussion will offer you a unique opportunity to hear firsthand perspectives on collaboration across sectors and the role of leadership in driving meaningful impact.
9:25 a.m.
Chasing Gold: Resilience, Purpose, and the Pursuit of Excellence
Lee Kiefer, Olympic Gold Medalist Fencer
Moderator: Kim Halbauer, Kentucky Regional President, Fifth Third Bank
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lee Kiefer, a three-time Olympic gold medalist whose remarkable journey exemplifies resilience, discipline, and purpose. From her roots in Lexington to the global stage of the Olympic Games, Lee has balanced the demands of elite athletic competition with building her business, KM Fencing, all while pursuing gold at the 2028 Summer Olympics. In this engaging fireside chat, she will share insights on overcoming setbacks, managing pressure at the highest level, and navigating the complexities of pursuing multiple passions while building a life and career with intention. You will leave motivated to define your own path to excellence and pursue your ambitions with confidence.
10:10 a.m.
Break with Sponsors
10:30 a.m.
Luxury Energy: Protecting What Fuels You
Colene Elridge (Coach Colene), CEO, Be More Consulting
Your energy is your most valuable currency, and too often, we spend it on the wrong things. In this empowering session, Colene shows how to identify energy leaks, protect what fuels you, and invest your energy like the luxury it is. You will leave with practical strategies to set boundaries, recharge intentionally, and channel your energy toward what matters most.
11:30 a.m.
Break with Sponsors
11:45 a.m.
Luncheon | Presentation of the Woman in Leadership Award | Interview with Award Winner
Award Winner: Renee Shaw, Director of Public Affairs, Kentucky Educational Television (KET)
Presenter and Interviewer: Ashli Watts, President and CEO, Kentucky Chamber
1:00 p.m.
Break with Sponsors
1:20 p.m.
Cracking the Case: The Power of Investigative Journalism to Uncover Truth
Shay McAlister, Independent Journalist, Shay Informed
Moderator: TBA
Shay McAlister will share her story on the power of investigative journalism, storytelling, and accountability. Drawing from her experience as an independent journalist, Shay will share how her persistent reporting and in-depth research helped crack open the long-unsolved Bardstown murder case, bringing renewed attention and momentum to a community seeking answers. This session will explore the impact of fearless journalism, the responsibility of uncovering truth, the evolving role of media in shaping informed communities and how amplifying underrepresented voices can drive meaningful change.
2:15 p.m.
TBA
3:00 p.m.
Closing Comments
Ashli Watts, President and CEO, Kentucky Chamber
Networking Reception with Sponsors
4:00 p.m.
6th Annual Women’s Summit Concludes