The 2025 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission will close with a powerful moment of reflection and renewed purpose as Governor Andy Beshear takes the Cumberland Mint Stage for the Principal Officer Plenary on Friday, August 29, at the Corbin Arena.
Presented by the University of the Cumberlands, this session will also feature Congressman Hal Rogers, a founding Co-Principal Officer of SOAR. Together, their participation represents a continuity of leadership and long-standing commitment to building a brighter future for Eastern Kentucky.
Governor Beshear’s connection to SOAR runs deep. His father, former Governor Steve Beshear, helped launch the initiative in 2013 to bring together local leaders, federal and state partners, and private-sector stakeholders around a shared vision for Appalachia’s future.
As Governor, Andy Beshear has supported efforts to invest in Eastern Kentucky communities — from expanding infrastructure and supporting long-term disaster recovery, to creating opportunities for families to thrive closer to home.
This session isn’t just about looking back — it’s about honoring the momentum underway across the region and encouraging new ideas, connections, and leadership for the road ahead.
Experience the SOAR Summit
The SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, is more than an event; it’s Appalachia’s premier gathering of people working to turn purpose into prosperity.
- The EKY Experience – A fully interactive expo hall
- Dynamic Sessions – Keynotes, panels, fireside chats, and workshops
- Local Flavor – Regional food, music, and culture
- Real Connection – Purpose-driven networking and collaboration
Ticket Options for the 2025 SOAR Summit
With Early Bird registration now closed, flexible options remain for attendees:
- All-Access Pass – $300
Full access to everything the Summit has to offer:- All programming
- All Plenary Sessions (Presented by the University of the Cumberlands)
- Taste of Corbin (Presented by Whitaker Bank)
- SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS)
- Breakfast (Aug. 28–29) and Lunch (Aug. 28)
- 2-Day Programming Pass (Aug. 26–27) – $150
Includes:- Breakout sessions
- EKY Experience
- SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS)
- 2-Day Plenary Pass (Aug. 28–29) – $200
Includes:- Plenary Sessions (Presented by the University of the Cumberlands)
- Taste of Corbin (Presented by Whitaker Bank)
- SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS)
- Breakfast (Aug. 28–29) and Lunch (Aug. 28)
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, student, employer, local official, or lifelong advocate for Eastern Kentucky, this is your moment to be part of something transformational.
Seats will fill fast. Secure your ticket today at www.soar-ky.org/summit.