ELEVATE Kentucky

ELEVATE KENTUCKY offers young professionals in-depth personal and professional development while fostering a better understanding of the challenges facing our Commonwealth. ELEVATE participants return to their organizations with increased skills, knowledge, perspective, and a new statewide professional network. Program graduates are better prepared to be catalysts in their organizations and communities in an effort to ELEVATE Kentucky.

ELEVATE Information

ELEVATE FAQs

ELEVATE Kentucky is designed for young professionals approximately 25 - 35 years old, but there is not a strict age limit. We look for individuals who are advancing in their careers and those involved in their communities who are eager to become stronger leaders. Sessions will provide skills and tools to advance your career, your organization, and your community. 

2025 Sessions Dates and Locations (subject to change.)

• April 9 - 11 Owensboro
• May 7 - 9 Pikeville
• June 9 - 11 Frankfort/NKY

During each session, there are two overnight stays. Sessions usually begin midday on Day 1, with a full day of programming on Day 2, and conclude midday on Day 3. Programming includes planned meals, site visits and tours, local and statewide speakers and leaders, and ample networking opportunities.

Participants are expected to attend all sessions. Participants missing more than three segments (one full day and a half day) may not graduate and could be asked to make up sessions the following year. In addition, if the participant is not fully engaged in each session, he/she may be asked to withdraw, or be involuntarily removed, from the program and tuition shall not be refunded.

The tuition for ELEVATE Kentucky 2025 is $2,200.

Tuition includes most meals, lodging, and three action-packed and informative sessions. Participants need to provide their own transportation to and from session locations.

"I have learned so much about our state and the innovation and industry impacting our economy. The Owensboro session taught me to think about planning and development (streetscaping -who knew?!) The Morehead session made me proud of the impact leaders are making on their communities. The Lexington session impressed me with the quality of industry we have to offer. We have so many smart leaders!"

– Ashley Johnson, ELEVATE Class of 2018

“The most meaningful and lasting aspect of Elevate were the relationships I have formed with young professionals throughout the Commonwealth. In the digital age, we’re increasingly asked to replace in-person experiences for remote communication, but nothing can ever replace an interpersonal connection. This program provided this across geographical and economic sector. Coincidentally, I was pursuing other career opportunities during the Elevate sessions. The sessions provided me a toolkit and language to really recognize who I am, what I want to do and then articulate that effectively to potential employers. Without Elevate, I may have never recognized my personal mission or found an appropriate fit.”

– Sarah Schmitt, ELEVATE Class of 2017