As the 2025 SOAR Summit draws near, anticipation is building for a powerful closing session — and an important conversation about the future of Appalachia.

We’re honored to announce that Dr. Quentin Young, President-elect of the University of the Cumberlands, will serve as a featured speaker on a panel discussing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in rural development. This Closing Plenary Session — presented by the University of the Cumberlands — will take place on Friday, August 29, at the Corbin Arena.

Why It Matters

AI and machine learning are transforming nearly every industry, from healthcare and logistics to education and finance. But for rural regions like Eastern Kentucky, the conversation often starts too late — or not at all.

Dr. Young aims to change that. As a local leader with global vision, his presence on the AI panel reflects a growing belief that Appalachia can lead, not lag, in the innovation economy.

“Artificial intelligence is not a distant wave—it’s already reshaping the realities of education, work, and opportunity across Eastern Kentucky,” said Young. “As leaders in this region, we have a responsibility to ensure AI becomes a force that empowers our people and enhances the work they do. That means investing in learning, infrastructure, and vision so that our communities don’t just adapt to change—they drive it.”

Leading the Way in Higher Education

This commitment to relevance and impact is reflected in the University of the Cumberlands’ latest move: the launch of its Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program. Offered 100% online, the MSAI equips students with the technical knowledge, data fluency, and ethical grounding to lead AI transformation in business, technology, and community institutions.

With this program, the University isn’t just teaching AI — it’s redefining what rural education can be.

What You’ll Experience at the SOAR Summit

The SOAR Summit is more than a conference. It’s a convening of people who believe in what’s possible in Eastern Kentucky. With over 1,200 attendees expected from across the country, the Summit features:

•     Interactive Sessions on real-world challenges and rural innovation
•     High-impact Keynotes — including the AI panel with Dr. Young
•     Networking with funders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and change agents
•     Hands-on Expo Hall – The EKY Experience, where the region’s innovators show off their work
•     Special Events, including the SOAR Inspires Awards Dinner and Taste of Corbin

The SOAR Summit: Where Appalachia Shows Up

The SOAR Summit is Appalachia’s premier event, and one of the most celebrated rural convenings in America. This is where innovation meets impact, where local vision meets national investment, and where communities come together to shape the future — together.

Why Attend?

If you’re committed to economic resilience, rural innovation, and transformational collaboration, you belong at the SOAR Summit. Here’s what you can expect:

•     1,200+ attendees across sectors: economic development, workforce, education, health, entrepreneurship, and more
•     Interactive sessions featuring changemakers solving real-world problems
•     High-impact keynotes, including our Closing Plenary with Dr. Quentin Young
•     Intentional networking designed to turn introductions into partnerships
•     A chance to see what’s working in rural America — and meet the people making it happen

Featured Experiences

The EKY Experience | Wednesday, August 27

More than an Exhibit Hall, the EKY Experience is a hands-on, fully immersive journey through Eastern Kentucky’s innovation ecosystem.

See what’s being built. Touch the tools. Meet the talent.

SOAR Inspires Awards | Wednesday, August 27

Presented by KCTCS, this signature evening honors individuals and organizations making a real, measurable impact across the region.

Taste of Corbin | Thursday, August 28

Presented by Whitaker Bank, with a Toast to Corbin sponsored by Corbin Tourism and powered by Ale-8-One, this evening takes you into the heart of downtown Corbin.

Explore shops, try local bites, enjoy live music, and take advantage of complimentary shuttle service to and from the Corbin Arena.

What You Get With Your Ticket

Your ticket includes everything:

•     Full programming access on August 26 and 27
•     Admission to all three Summit Plenary Sessions, including the Closing Panel with Dr. Quentin Young
•     Access to the EKY Experience Expo Hall on August 26–27
•     A seat at the SOAR Inspires Awards Dinner on August 27
•     Entry to the Taste of Corbin reception on August 28 (shuttle included)
•     Breakfast (August 27–28) and lunch (August 28)

• Lunch on August 28.

This isn’t just a conference. It’s an invitation to plug in, stand up, and take part in shaping the future of Eastern Kentucky.

Join Us in Corbin

Visit www.soar-ky.org/summit to claim your seat.

Because the work is too important. The moment is too urgent. And the people? They’re relentless — for EKY, for Appalachia, for you.