2025 SOAR Inspires Awards Nominations Are Now Open!
Do you know someone making an extraordinary impact in Eastern Kentucky? Now is your chance to recognize their achievements! Nominations for the 2025 SOAR Inspires Awards are officially open. Help us celebrate the individuals, organizations, and communities shaping a brighter future. Submit your nomination today and ensure their efforts are recognized at this prestigious event.
Along with previous years’ awards,
SOAR Inspires Awards is introducing NEW categories for nomination this year:
Emerging Leader of the Year Award
Appalachian Workforce Champion Award
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Partner of the Year Award
Appalachian Student-Athlete of the Year Award
The Emerging Leader of the Year Award celebrates a trailblazer under the age of 40 whose leadership is creating real, lasting impact in Appalachian Kentucky. Whether in business, government, education, or community service, this individual is not only making a difference today but shaping the future of the region with a bold vision, passion, and purpose.
The Appalachian Workforce Champion Award honors an individual, organization, or training provider making a transformative impact on workforce development in Eastern Kentucky. Through innovative programming, community partnerships, or direct service to job seekers, this award celebrates those bridging the gap between potential and opportunity—helping individuals not just find work, but build a future.
The Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Partner of the Year Award honors an organization or individual who plays a critical role in supporting Appalachian Kentucky’s entrepreneurs. From mentorship and technical assistance to capital access and coalition building, this award recognizes those working behind the scenes to grow a thriving, connected startup ecosystem that empowers bold ideas and homegrown talent.
The Appalachian Student-Athlete of the Year Award recognizes a high school or college athlete who exemplifies excellence both on the field and in the classroom. This award celebrates individuals who lead by example—balancing academics, athletics, and community involvement with discipline, determination, and pride in their Appalachian roots.
Business Person of the Year
The Business Person of the Year Award recognizes a visionary leader whose innovation, determination, and excellence have driven the growth and success of their business in Appalachian Kentucky. This leader’s efforts have not only elevated their enterprise but also contributed to the prosperity and vitality of the region.
2023 Award Winner
Donovan Blackburn
2024 Award Winner
Tim Robinson
Appalachian Leadership Award
The Appalachian Leadership Award honors an outstanding leader whose transformative vision and impactful contributions have strengthened the Appalachian region. Their dedication exemplifies the power of leadership to inspire progress and empower communities.
2023 Award Winner
Elmer Whitaker
2024 Award Winner
Dr. Burton J. Webb
University of Pikeville
Appalachian Humanitarian Award
The Appalachian Humanitarian Award celebrates an individual or organization devoted to advancing social causes across Appalachian Kentucky. Whether tackling poverty, food insecurity, housing, education, or other challenges, the recipient’s efforts embody compassion, resilience, and meaningful impact.
2023 Award Winner
Jerry Fultz
2024 Award Winner
Tess and Barb Lipps
Axis Coffee and Gathering Place
City of the Year Award
The City of the Year Award acknowledges a municipal government or city that has excelled in fostering opportunities for residents while attracting new talent, industries, and innovation. This award celebrates visionary leadership and collaborative efforts that position the city as a model of growth and community engagement. and meaningful impact.
2023 Award Winner
City of Whitesburg
& City of Jenkins
2024 Award Winner
City of Ashland
County of the Year Award
The County of the Year Award honors a county government that has demonstrated exemplary efforts in creating opportunities for its citizens. Through forward-thinking initiatives and strategic collaborations, the county has successfully attracted residents, talent, and industries while uplifting its community.
2023 Award Winner
Lawrence County
2024 Award Winner
Jackson County
Connect Appalachia Award
The Connect Appalachia Award highlights the remarkable achievements of individuals or organizations advancing broadband access, digital equity, remote work, and digital literacy in the region. This award celebrates transformative efforts that bridge the digital divide and empower Appalachia’s future.
2023 Award Winner
Thacker-Grigsby Communications
& Leslie County Fiscal Court
2024 Award Winner
Red Bird Mission Broadband Action Team
Healthy Communities Award
The Healthy Communities Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of an individual, group, or organization working to address health disparities in Appalachian Kentucky. Their initiatives promote wellness and healthier lifestyles, fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
2023 Award Winner
Farmacy & CANE Kitchen
2024 Award Winner
AVA Center (Appalachian Valley Autism Center)
at Pikeville Medical Center
Downtown of the Year Award
The Downtown of the Year Award celebrates a downtown or Main Street organization committed to revitalizing the heart of their community. By supporting local businesses, attracting new ventures, and implementing beautification and connectivity projects, they create vibrant, thriving spaces for residents and visitors alike.
2023 Award Winner
Revitalize Russell
2024 Award Winner
City of Somerset
Tourism Organization of the Year Award
The Tourism Organization of the Year Award honors a local or regional tourism agency whose innovative strategies have not only promoted existing attractions but also developed new opportunities to draw visitors to Eastern Kentucky. Their efforts drive economic growth and shine a spotlight on Appalachia’s unique charm.
2023 Award Winner
Backroads of Appalachia
2024 Award Winner
Appalachian Triangle
Startup of the Year Award
The Startup of the Year Award recognizes a business or entrepreneur leveraging innovation and technology to expand their reach and impact. Open to businesses five years old or younger, this award celebrates creative solutions and bold growth that extend far beyond Appalachia Kentucky.
2023 Award Winner
New Frontier
2024 Award Winner
BlackBox Energy Systems
Appalachian Student of the Year Award
The Appalachian Student of the Year Award celebrates a high school or college student who has made a significant impact through academic excellence and community service. This award highlights the next generation of leaders whose achievements inspire progress in their school and community.
2023 Award Winner
Mountain View Elementary School
& Logan Sizemore
2024 Award Winner
Olivia Johnson
Middlesboro High School
Appalachian Teacher of the Year Award
The Appalachian Teacher of the Year Award honors an educator who has left a lasting mark on their students, institution, and community. Through a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and meaningful service, they exemplify the transformative power of education in Appalachia.
2023 Award Winner
Dr. Chandran Haridas
Belfry High School
