Alice Lloyd College Hosts Patton Leadership Institute for February Session

Alice Lloyd College was honored to host the February session of the Patton Leadership Institute, a program of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. The College welcomed emerging leaders from across the region for a day of learning, collaboration, and connection in the heart of Appalachia.

The day began with a welcome from President Jim Stepp, who shared the College’s philosophy of developing servant leaders for the mountains. In his remarks, President Stepp emphasized that Alice Lloyd College exists to prepare students not just for careers, but for lives of service and leadership across Appalachia. He expressed his pride in hosting a room full of emerging leaders, noting that cultivating principled, community-minded leadership is exactly what the region needs for a strong and hopeful future.

Following the welcome, participants toured campus, gaining a firsthand look at the College’s academic programs, residence halls, and student life. The group experienced how Alice Lloyd College blends academics, Christian values, and a strong work ethic through its Student Work Program to prepare students to lead with integrity and purpose.

The morning session featured remarks from Will Anderson, Executive Director of Hindman Settlement School, and Karen Kelly, Chief of Staff for Congressman Hal Rogers. Both speakers emphasized the importance of place-based leadership, public service, and collaboration in advancing opportunities across Eastern Kentucky.

After lunch on campus, the group traveled to downtown Hindman to complete their afternoon programming, further exploring Knott County’s history, partnerships, and ongoing revitalization efforts.

“We were truly glad to host the Patton Leadership Institute on Caney Creek,” said Dr. Allison Southard, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Alice Lloyd College. “Any time we can bring together leaders who care deeply about the future of Eastern Kentucky, it strengthens our shared mission.”

Hosting the Patton Leadership Institute reflects Alice Lloyd College’s continued commitment to investing in the future of Appalachia. By bringing together business, nonprofit, education, and public leaders, the Institute helps cultivate a new generation prepared to serve.

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