Michelle Allen leads Somerset-Pulaski County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Somerset-Pulaski Economic Development Authority (SPEDA) board member Michelle Allen has been selected as a member of the Leadership Kentucky Class of 2020.
Allen, the executive director of the Somerset-Pulaski County Convention and Visitors Bureau, joins 44 other participants from across the state representing a variety of public and private sectors.
“I am elated that Leadership Kentucky has chosen Michelle for this outstanding program,” SPEDA President and CEO Chris Girdler said. “Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge about tourism and hospitality to this top-notch class of leaders from across the state. I know her time and her expertise will be valuable for everyone involved.”
Leadership Kentucky, the organization’s flagship program, is made up of seven three-day sessions where participants gather to gain insight into the Commonwealth of Kentucky and its challenges and opportunities. Throughout the sessions, class members will meet with many of Kentucky’s current leaders and explore the state’s opportunities and resources.
The June through December program will bring the class across the state: virtually through Zoom video conferencing in June, Louisville in July, Paducah/Eddyville in August, Bowling Green in September, Pikeville in October, Lexington/Frankfort in November, and Northern Kentucky in December. The sessions will cover topics ranging from business and economic development, arts and tourism, natural resources and the environment, education and healthcare, agriculture, social issues, and government.
This year’s class is smaller than normal, not only allowing Leadership Kentucky to better monitor participants’ health and social distancing but also providing more opportunities for deeper connections and networking, according to a release from the organization.
Allen said she is looking forward to learning more about Kentucky and building relationships that will strengthen Somerset and Pulaski’s position in the state in tourism and economic development.
“I am honored to be selected for this esteemed program and to be able to represent Somerset and Pulaski County in a leadership capacity,” Allen said. “I am eager to learn, network with others, and bring back valuable information we can use to make our community stronger.”