People from a range of sectors, experiences and perspectives Participate in Ridgeway, all sharing a common commitment to A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR Kentucky & Appalachia.
Participant Reflections on the Ridgeway Experience…
Note that affiliations and titles are listed as they were during or at the completion of the participant’s initial cohort experience.
Mary Absher (2017-2018)
Retired Teacher & Non-Profit Volunteer
"I lost myself somewhere along the line trying to please everyone else. Now I am finding me and I'm more selective of the commitments I take on. I am more able to remain true to my vision as it develops and to value the journey. I am also listening more and keeping more of an open mind. I appreciated the shared love of Appalachia among our group and the willingness to change that we all had for ourselves and the region."
Faye Adams-Eaton (2023-2024)
Associate Director, GROW Appalachia
“In order to be a good leader, it’s important to dig deep and truly know yourself. That way you can walk your talk — and offer that same grace, compassion and strength to those around you. Ridgeway is the perfect container for that work while also offering a unique opportunity to grow alongside other leaders in the region and in the beauty of East Kentucky’s state parks.”
Shane Barton (2019)
Downtown Revitalization Coordinator, UK CEDIK (Community & Economic Development Initiative of KY)
“I didn't exactly know what to expect but I came to Ridgeway to learn what a leader is. I discovered I am one and I learned more than I could have ever imagined about leadership and myself. Even more important, I also discovered how to be a better person as a partner, co-worker and friend. While I may not be the best I can be just yet, I can say that I have a road map to get me there now. The rest of the journey is on me.”
Bryce Baumann (2017-2018)
Farmer & Owner, Lazy Eight Stock Farm
"Ridgeway has provided a space to work on the things in my personal and professional life I would otherwise ignore. It was a rewarding, wonderful experience. I've teased out some hard stuff. The work of the program continues to be with me on a daily basis and I am seeing real results."
Regina Becknell (2016-2017)
Enterprise Development Project Specialist, MACED
“The Ridgeway Leadership Program is innovative, interactive and transformative. The essential foundation is based on the premise of supporting and developing the best you, you can be. It is understanding who you are, how you impact those around you and making enhancements to showcase your best self.”
Joshua Bills (2016-2017)
Energy Efficient Enterprises Program Coordinator, MACED
"Ridgeway has opened my eyes to making probable what once seemed only possible. I now have a toolbox with all the right tools to not only get the job done, but to get the job done right and with ease."
Beth Bissmeyer (2015-2016)
Graduate Student in Social Work, University of Louisville
“This was a life-changing experience. I came into the program wanting to gain leadership skills and confidence so I could better do my job; I got that and so much more. Participating in this program opened up a space for me to learn and explore my direction in life in a way I never had before, while also building relationships with other participants and learning new skills and techniques for doing good work. I can't recommend this program enough. I am immensely grateful for this experience.”
Ali Blair (2016-2017)
Entrepreneur
"Ridgeway gave me tools to examine how I show up in the world so that I can present my best self. I've experienced significant personal shifts that have allowed me to find peace with professional and interpersonal challenges, gain confidence in my abilities, step fully into knowing my chosen work is worthy and necessary in this time and space of transition, and have a better relationship with my family. Carrie is an expert facilitator and her ability to both hold the cohort and allow conversation and group dynamics unfold as they may is inspiring to watch and feels nurturing and safe from the inside. Carrie's personal example as well as the Ridgeway experience is giving me the freedom to choose physical, mental, spiritual well-being as a priority and necessary component for my high functioning, driven, passionate life."
Amy Burkhardt (2023-24)
Executive Director, Planned Philanthropy at Berea College
“I applied to Ridgeway because i wanted to reconnect with and develop my whole person instead just my professional side. Through this experience, I have gained a deeper understanding of myself in order to identify my needs and give voice to those needs. I now have a new set of tools to navigate personal and professional relationships that are providing new meaning and connection in my life’s purpose. Carrie is a phenomenal and engaging facilitator who keeps content interesting and relevant. She truly cares for each participants and it shows.”
Hannah Burt (2021-22)
Artist
“As an artist, I came to Ridgeway unsure exactly how a coaching program would benefit me (Boy was I wrong!). Carrie’s depth of guidance and willingness to understand meant that everyone was able to be present and find what works for them - this was not a one size fits all experience! I appreciated the variety of learning styles and forms of exercises. It was a great balance for me and helpful to truly understand how I learn and why. Throughout the process I felt really cared for and not rushed in any way, there was so much intention in the themes, learning goals, schedule, and housing that I was able to be in a place of curiosity instead of worry. Ridgeway was an empowering tool for me to get back to myself and feel confident in the way I show up in the world. It allowed me to release some pressure and trust my path while taking accountability for my own goals, interactions and presence. I would recommend everyone to go and be surprised and empowered! Also the FOOD is exceptional!"
Jess Burton (2023-24)
“I had high high hopes for my Ridgeway experience and it was so much more. I grew so much more from it than I could have imagined.”
James Caudill (2023-24)
CDFI Director, Redbud Financial Alternatives
“I walked into Ridgeway thinking that I had answers to question and just needed validation. What I realized was that there was a whole different set of questions, concerns, problems, and answers that I would not have gotten to if I had not participated in the cohort. I walked away equipped to be successful in a way that I never imagined, and be open to new ways of doing things that benefit everyone around me.”
Gwen Childs (2016-2017)
Executive Director, Berea Arts Council
“Ridgeway is a caring, safe and challenging space in which to grow. I can see and feel my experiences coming through in all aspects of my work and personal life. Ridgeway has shifted my perspective in a significant and positive way. I’m different and my relationships are different, which helps me bring my best self to my community.”
Sam Cole (2019)
Office of Academic Affairs, Berea College
“Do you want to change you life from the roots, up? If so, I would highly recommend Ridgeway, as it has done just that for me. The leadership tools, activities, guidance, cohort building, and coaching calls that Carrie offers as part of this transformative experience will help you better yourself, personally and professionally, while also challenging your norms, pushing you out of your comfort zone in a productive way and focusing on the things that help you to craft the life that you’ve always wanted to live.”
Kristin Collins, (2015-2016)
Associate Executive Director, Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
“The program completely changed my trajectory for my work in Eastern Kentucky. It helped me identify things I needed to change about myself and gave me the tools, confidence, and support to make those changes. It opened my eyes to the work happening in Eastern Kentucky and how I can play a vital role in that change. The program also gives me confidence that my cohort classmates are prepared and capable in leading this region now and in the future.”
Jason Coomes (2015-2016)
Energy Programs Manager, MACED
"I found this program to be very helpful in identifying barriers I was bringing to my work and personal life - particularly, internal dialogues and frames through which I saw myself and my value personally and professionally. After participating in Ridgeway, I am better at recognizing the choice(s) I have in my reactions to stressful situations and making healthier ones, have a clearer sense of where my life work/career goals need to be aligned and am stronger at managing work/life balance!"
Sandi Curd (2016-2017)
Promise Zone Coordinator, Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation
“’How can I change the world if I can only change me?’ I found the answer and much more at Ridgeway. If you want to spend time with like minds, join your professional association. But if you want to transform, to grow and become a better leader and you are willing to spend time challenging your ideas and having courageous conversations, then the Ridgeway Transformative Leadership Experience is for you.”
Malcolm Davis (2023-2024)
Artist, Educator, Activist & Founder, Affrilachian Arts
“My Ridgeway experience centers around the bond I formed amongst our cohort, a bond built on uplifting each of us toward accomplishing our purposes. Carrie’s expert facilitation and care every step along the way fostered a sense of genuine love and respect among us. We met as peers serving a shared region and we leave as an interconnected web of impact-makers, eager to apply what we’ve learned.”
Samantha Dodson-Skinner (2023-24)
Director of Strategic Convenings, Partners for Rural Impact
"Participating in the Ridgeway Leadership Experience was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I stepped into the program, I was welcomed into a community of passionate individuals dedicated to personal and professional growth. The carefully curated curriculum, coupled with the guidance of Carrie, empowered me to unlock my full potential and develop invaluable leadership skills. The experiential learning opportunities challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace new perspectives, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and confidence. The supportive environment cultivated at Ridgeway not only accelerated my growth but also fostered lifelong connections with like-minded peers. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to anyone seeking to elevate their leadership journey and unlock new levels of success.”
Christa Faulkner (2019)
Alliance Coordinator, Alliance for Appalachia
“Ridgeway was beyond impactful and I will carry the experience with me for a lifetime. If you are stuck and struggling with your work or life situation, just do it. You will have some clarity by the end and a lot of fun throughout the entire process.”
Leandra Forman (2021-22)
Director of Operations, FoodChain
“The Ridgeway experience is a way to step out of your routine, connect to the varied landscapes of Eastern KY's State Parks, the preserved natural world and the history of spaces, while connecting to other high impact leaders from throughout the region. It is truly a special thing to step into a space surrounded by other people who are committed to the work that will be undertaken there as a whole. That the work is done internally and as a cohort makes the connections formed in this program even more tangible. In order for change to be transformational, it cannot happen overnight, which is why the structure of Ridgeway creates such an opportunity for growth within, between, and outward, providing a complex ecosystem of tools that have the potential to seed long term resilience.”
Joe Gallenstein (2019)
Chapter Organizer, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“Ridgeway is an amazing experience - a great way to connect with yourself, putting who you are in the context of the work you do and the world you want to create. You gain a better understanding of how to feed your personal needs, manage your work, and build a path for where both personal and work life need to go.”
Kate Handzlik (2021-22)
Creative Director, Higher Ground Harlan
“The growth I experienced at Ridgeway snuck up on me. I came into this program burnt out from an arduous graduate school process and through Ridgeway, I gained healing, confidence, and a purpose that will carry me through my career and life. Carrie facilitated such a gentle, careful process to generate personal development not only as leaders in the region but also as people living in the world.”
Laura Harper Knight (2021-22)
Lead Organizer, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“Ridgeway supported my leadership journey by offering the ideal context and facilitation to work deeply and intentionally on building my skills and confidence. The work we did in Ridgeway has shaped how I show up in my work and life, deepening my connection to myself and my community. The concepts and frameworks in Ridgeway have helped me flourish into a version of myself I didn't know was possible, and the lasting impacts continue to unfold as I keep growing and practicing every day.”
Anna Harrod (2023-24)
Musician & Land Steward
“I came to Ridgeway hoping to learn more about justice-oriented community-building and to make connections with others working in that realm. That certainly happened! And I’ve been challenged in new and unexpected ways that were so profound and necessary for the deeply spiritual learning and shifts happening within.”
Treasure Hightower (2017-2018)
Marketing Director & Community Engagement Manager, SEEED Knox
"This experience blew my mind and expanded my world. I have been able to unpack several aspects of myself and confirm inner truths on a path to transform into the leader I am meant to be, both personally and professionally. Ridgeway has been incredibly meaningful for me and I recommend it to everyone!"
Deb Hille (2019)
Artist & Entrepreneur, Art & Soul Kentucky
“Ridgeway is truly a transformational program. I expected it to be good, yet the program was richer and deeper than I imagined. I wanted to gain clarity and purpose in this stage of my life and I’ve done just that. I came away with a deep understanding of my personal values and so much more that will inform my choices in life and work moving forward. I feel as if I’ve had an operating system upgrade and my way of being, living and working is now running optimally!”
Amy Hogg (2017-2018)
Development Director, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
"Ridgeway has been a gift – an opportunity to step away from my daily life and gain perspective on my work and myself, to learn and grow alongside folks from different professional fields and communities, and to meet some of the coolest people in our region. When I began the program, I thought I would gain leadership skills to enhance my work. But I've gained so much more – a better understanding of my contribution in the larger context of my family, my work, my community and our region. And it has been so much fun!"
Beth Howard (2016-2017)
Deputy Organizing Director for Leadership Development, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“Through working with Carrie and being a part of the Ridgeway cohort, I have seen myself having more confidence in my work and in my leadership. We have been able to do transformational work in how we show up in our work and that will in turn transform the region.”
Mae Humiston (2016-2017)
CDFI Manager, Redbud Financial Alternatives, Inc.
“Ridgeway brings together a diversity of perspectives, experiences, and visions. It's not about ‘fixing’ anyone, but rather fostering the skills to reach the understanding that we need in this world."
Idris Isaiah Irihamye (2023-24)
Staff, Kentucky Student Environmental Coalition
“Participating in Ridgeway has given me the confidence to show up as my full self in community with others even as I identify areas for growth and improvement. It has given me tools I’ve been looking for to organize my community from a place of honest, just and compassionate leadership. It has centered me in the person I want to be as I work in social justice movements and envision a future for myself in Appalachia.”
Jerry Jackson (2017-2018)
PhD, Vice President for Enrollment & Communications, University of the Cumberlands
"This is the most unique, honest and authentic leadership group I have participated in. The Ridgeway structure and overall holistic philosophy provides a safe place to talk, explore and expose our dreams. It was exactly what I needed as I approached the next phase of my professional life and I will carry what I have learned with me forever."
Penny Jordan (2017-2018)
Chief Strategy & Finance Officer, Partners for Education at Berea College
"I grew throughout this experience and I'm not sure I would have gotten to the place I am now without it. My favorite activities at Ridgeway were those that allowed for introspection and self-awareness. As a leader it is critical to understand ourselves and Ridgeway helped me gain deeper knowledge about myself that will shape how I lead moving forward.”
Amelia Kirby (2015-2016)
Development Director, Appalachian Citizens Law Center
“The combination of approaches, the pacing, the succession of concepts and exercise--it was gentle and unobtrusive but incredibly effective, particularly at building toward genuine transformation. I thought the content of the cohort was going to teach me how to do my job better, and instead I found that it taught me how to be myself better -- which of course, by extension, means I can do any job better. The content was really fantastic. Deep and broad. Helped me probe and analyze some very significant aspects of my life and self. My hows and whys and the relationship of those two.”
Erica Knight (2019)
Community Engagement Officer, Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
“This leadership program is unlike any leadership program you will every experience and is worth every penny. You not only learn about yourself and gain tools to improve, but you gain a whole new group of lifelong friends to support you and learn from. Ridgeway has been eye-opening and has put me on a path of growth — it has been a truly learning experience I will always cherish.”
Riley Lanham (2021-22)
Creative & Aspiring Entrepreneur
“Ridgeway is an amazing opportunity for those individuals looking to push themselves to grow in way that benefits themselves and the community in which they operate. It provides an opportunity to learn, connect, and build new ways of being.”
Laurie Martinez (2019)
Director, Center for Transformational Living
“Ridgeway offered concrete tools to asses, analyze and transform the ways I show up and engage life on both a personal and professional level. Through, inquiry, observation and discovery of personal, human, and systems behavior and patterning, I have developed an expanded awareness and created touchstone practices that are deeply aligned with my values and which further support my purpose. A highlight of the program, for me, was the rich development of our cohort as we traversed this transformational journey, continually bonding further as we shared, witnessed and supported each other's development. We shared reflections, challenges, acheivements and laughter along the way. Carrie Brunk's leadership style is extraordinary and Ridgeway's program content is a highly effective tool for authentic personal development that will undoubtedly have true and lasting effects in all areas of life.”
Laura Meadows (2015-2016)
Vice President Single-Family Lending, JustChoice Lending - A Division of Fahe
“I showed up as one person and graduated as another. Through this program I have learned that everyone has the capability of being a great leader. This cohort showed me how to identify and expand on the qualities that I already possess and take that back with me to be the best version of me I can be for myself, my organization, and my Appalachia.”
Kaitlyn Moyers (2023-24)
Financial Operations Analyst, Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky
“Ridgeway has completely changed how I view myself and my work. It is a safe space that allowed a quiet young woman to come out of her self-imposed shell. I have found — with the help of my lovely cohort — my inner strength and bravery. I cannot recommend Ridgeway and Carrie enough!”
Megan Naseman (2019)
Human Resources Manager, MACED
“Going through Ridgeway as a new mom gave me the space and time to connect with myself and who I wanted to be. It was like jumper cables to my sense of personhood, which needed a boost after a traumatic birth experience and serious health complications. I learned so much and continue to practice a lot of the content — I feel like I have a much bigger toolkit for self-reflection and improvement.”
Anthony Newman (2015-2016)
Vice President of Marketing, Fahe
"Unlike many leadership programs out there, Ridgeway wasn't designed to present some sort of "optimal" leadership method or style. We were provided a supportive yet accountable environment to explore our own personal ideas of leadership and encouraged to set goals that saw that leadership manifest in our lives."
Melissa Newman (2021-22)
EdD, Associate Vice President & Executive Director of the Appalachian
Cradle to Career Partnership, Partners for Rural Impact
“This unique experience allows you to see who you are and how your habits and behaviors affect those around you, your decisions, and your life's trajectory. It allows you to become more aware of the "whys" that exist all around us with regard to human behavior and more open to tracking reactions to various situations that arise in work and in life.”
Rachel Norton (2019)
Energy Specialist, MACED
“Ridgeway has been everything that I hoped for, and more. The relationships I’m taking away from this are incredible and I feel very lucky to have them. We support and challenge each other with love and encouragement as we each seek to become better people and lift one another up. This experience has changed the way I operate in the world, the way I view my future and has shown me a place of depth and love from which I can continue to explore and grow.”
Tammy Owens (2016-2017)
Entrepreneur, Foxfire Farm
D. Parker (2021-22)
Recruitment Specialist, Hazard Community & Technical College
“Ridgeway really opened my eyes to a lot of things within myself. I see myself applying everything I learned at Ridgway into my everyday life. A lot of person growth and changes occurred in me — I notice my leadership qualities and I'm starting to embrace them. Like I always say, it’s all small steps to a giant and Ridgeway has taught me that I am a giant and I'm taking the steps I need to take.”
Sara Pennington (2015-2016)
New Energy & Transition Campaign Organizer, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“It was all excellent. I always had complete trust in where we were going in each session; each was a journey that led somewhere important. On the whole, it was exactly what I needed given where I am right now in my life and career. All the different types of learning and exploring we did, from the deeply personal, to the skills-building, to the cohort-level relationship building was really important to me. The balance and variety of all the different modes helped to make my experience as tremendous as it was. I think I knew that I needed to do some deeply personal work, figure some things out about *myself* in order to step into the type of leadership I needed and wanted for myself, and this program did just that for me. It all felt so purposeful and effective.”
Emma Pepper (2019)
Director of Strategic Network Communications, WV Community Development Hub
“The Ridgeway experience is truly what it says it is — a transformative leadership experience. It has been a turning point for me — my approach to every aspect of my life has changed. My work life and personal life now feel more seamless. I'm truly living out a more authentic version of myself. Things have changed for the better in my life that I didn't think were possible to ever change.
At Ridgeway, we work hard, have fun and build the kind of relationships that are essential to being impactful in your career as well as supporting you in meeting your personal goals. I'm so grateful for everyone who has been a part of this experience with me.”
Taria Person (2016-2017)
Artist/Writer, Carpetbag Theater
“In Ridgeway | A Transformative Leadership Experience, Carrie’s vibrant, fierce and gentle spirit fills the room making every encounter a safe one for all. Being a part of this cohort has been a welcoming space for myself, and has meant going on a personal scavenger hunt for all of the talents, greatness, and facets of myself that I thought were gone. Overall, Ridgeway is a bad ass experience, and I will hold it dear!"
Aaron Phelps (2016-2017)
Senior Media Producer, Fahe
"I dream big and I always have a thousand ideas running at once. Ridgeway has provided me with the leadership skills and tools to help me properly manage my time and delegate responsibility so I can see these dream projects come to fruition."
Jonathan Piercy (2017-2018)
MD & Assistant Professor of Family & Community Medicine, UK HealthCare Hazard
"Ridgeway gave me the opportunity to think deeply about how I can be the best version of myself and how I can be a positive force in the world. It gave me a stronger sense of who I am as a person and far more confidence about where my life is going. The insights I have gained and the connections I have made will last a lifetime."
Laura Poulette (2017-2018)
Artist & Entrepreneur, Meadow House Studio
"The Ridgeway Leadership Experience was truly transformative. I've found so much practical use in this work and have gained knowledge and insight into the parts of myself that have kept me from being my most effective. I've acquired tools and perspectives to help me move beyond unhelpful ways of being. It's thrilling to recognize that by putting this work into practice, I'm able to access my most creative, confident and authentic self."
Brenda Richardson (2017-2018)
Artist & Facilitator, Art Behind Bars Knox County
"I feel so much like I'm moving with wind at my back now. I felt held by you and by the group in ways that will be part of the strength I carry forward. This work is truly channeling love into the world and the region."
Heather Richardson (2017-2018)
Massage Therapist, Elemental Heart Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork
Les Roll (2015-2016)
Enterprise Development Project Specialist, MACED
"Ridgeway challenged me to understand what I could do to look at my work and my approach to work differently. I feel much more confident and comfortable in how I relate to my work, my office culture and my community."
Joe Sheehan (2023-24)
Data & Technology Manager, Mountain Association
“Ridgeway is truly transformative! The possibilities I had all but written off for myself now seem within reach. The supportive, accommodating environment Carrie fosters makes trying new things and facing hard things doable. I don't know what comes next, but after this experience, I'm excited to find out!”
Cory Shenk (2021-22)
Musician & Principal, Cory Shenk Professional Services
“If all of life is metaphorically climbing up a vertical cliff, then I came to Ridgeway looking for help to arrive at the top. I don't believe we ever reach that point. Ridgeway helped me find better footholds and handholds, some ledges to rest on, and how to practice getting better at doing that on my own. Since completing the program I've found joy in climbing and also in taking in the view.”
Jessie Skaggs (2015-2016)
Community Organizer, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“I came into this program thinking it would help me learn how to bring my best self into work spaces and gain some practical tools to do that. I didn't realize what a significant impact it would have on my personal life, too, and how that was connected to my work life….This program really has been life-changing for me.”
Kristin Smith (2017-2108)
Chef/Owner & Farmer, The Wrigley Taproom & Eatery and Faulkner Bent Farm
"I feel like I finally found my squad at Ridgeway. I came into the program in a time of personal and professional stagnation and Ridgeway provided a perfect place to connect with other awesome professionals working in the region. We gained effective leadership tools and the individual support we needed to reach our personal goals."
Maggie Smith (2019)
Communications Director, Community Farm Alliance
“Ridgeway is a truly transformative leadership experience. It was more than I could have ever hoped for, so much more than just tools and tactics. This experience tunes into you, your heart, your identity and you are changed through it if you are willing to trust the process. I truly believe that the rewards of doing Ridgeway will continue for years to come and I will see this experience as a vital point in all contexts of my life. This work is needed in the region — thank you for creating this wonderful opportunity and for investing in me and other leaders!”
Gail Spradlin (2015-2016)
Executive Director, Hand in Hand Ministries
"Life changing to say the least! I have found that I have grown so much in my leadership just knowing that leaders come in all styles. I learned skills I will carry with me for the rest of my life."
Katie Startzman (2019)
Entrepreneur & Owner, Native Bagel Company
“Ridgeway has given me the tools to create my own definition of success and create a business that reflects my values and goals. The program offers time and space away from ‘real life’ to reflect and build a framework for living an enriching life of purpose. I’m so grateful I participated!”
Kaycie Stushek (2021-22)
Community Development Programs Specialist, WV Community Development Hub
“Ridgeway transformed the way I understand and view my life, my awareness of how I interact with my surroundings, and gave me tools to take agency over my future. It is the most transformational experience I have had in my adult life, well worth the time, money, and energy.”
Rebecca Tucker (2015-2016)
Data Analyst, Partners for Education at Berea College
"My Ridgeway experience gave me the grounding I needed at a time when I stood at a crossroads. I will be forever thankful for the guidance that Carrie gave, but in some ways the time away from my normal life was even more valuable. Ridgeway gave me the time and space to reflect, to plan, and consider my path. Carrie's guidance made me look at my values with earnest, and use them as a lens when making commitments for my future. This experience was amazing, and I will continue to utilize the tools and lessons for years to come."
Leah Van Winkle (2023-24)
Associate Director, Brushy Fork Institute
“Ridgeway is an invaluable experience of vulnerability and connection! You will learn so many tools and processes for living a life that is aligned to your purpose and values and how to effectively collaborate to make that happen. Carrie is an incredible, powerful yet gentle guide as we walk through this experience.”
Jennifer Walden (2021-22)
Program Coordinator, New Opportunity School for Women
“I came to this program certain that I lacked many of the strengths that are needed in leadership and hoping to develop the tools that could transform my leadership approach. What I gained was unprecedented insight and an appreciation for the leadership style that I already operated from as well as tools that would help me continue to develop skills that would benefit those I serve through my work. Building upon the talents I already possess was not only a natural approach for developing my skills and strengths at work, but it has helped me gain confidence in other areas of my life and clearly see a path for my future. If you’ve landed on this site, chances are you’re looking for insight and change, and this is certainly a program that delivers those elements and so much more. Fortune favors the bold and this is a program where the benefits far exceed the calendar commitments!”
Heather Warman (2015-2016)
Executive Director, Kentucky Environmental Foundation
“Ridgeway taught me to better understand myself and my leadership style and has given me a new appreciation for others’ work styles and the necessity for a variety of approaches to complete a task. I have learned to better organize my work and my home life and feel more balanced as a result. It is a complex task to explore our own discomfort and one that takes a great deal of leadership and facilitation to accomplish. This program teaches you to deal with your discomfort and gives you the skills to understand how to work through it.”
Angie Weaver (2017-2018)
Life Coach & Victims Advocate, City of Williamsburg
"Ridgeway has changed my life. I would recommend this program to anyone that wants to "level up" professionally or personally. Usually what holds us back has nothing to do with the limitations we think are imposed on us by others and has everything to do with limitations that we impose upon ourselves. Once you get clear on the direction you want and have an honest look at what is holding you back, suddenly your goals seem possible."
Carl Weaver (2023-24)
Organizer, Kentuckians for the Commonwealth
“The Ridgeway experience has given me the opportunity to heal, learn and activate my inspiration into an effective leadership style. I am more resilient to be patient, persistent and positive in all the spaces of my life.”
Betsy Whaley (2021-22)
Chief Strategy Officer, Mountain Association
“Ridgeway is the most impactful professional and personal development experience that I have ever experienced. The opportunity to build skills, grow personal awareness, establish new relationships, and receive high-quality facilitation and coaching has been transformational for me.”
Shelby Wheeler (2021-22)
Small Business Owner, Wandering Roots Farm
Organic Program Manager, KY Department of Agriculture
“Through Ridgeway, I realized that my goals in life are achievable and that’s HUGE. That has given me hope I didn’t have before entering the program. I found the majority of what we learned and did to be applicable to my day to day life and working with others.”