The 2025 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, is proud to welcome Jeffrey Reddick, acclaimed screenwriter and creator of the Final Destination film franchise, as a featured speaker.
A native of Jackson, Kentucky, Reddick is a pioneer in the horror genre whose work has made a lasting impact on global pop culture. His creative journey, from rural Appalachia to Hollywood success, holds a powerful truth: bold storytelling can take root anywhere.
At this year’s Summit, Jeffrey will speak to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural creatives, the importance of investing in arts access, and the urgent need for communities to reimagine how creative careers are supported across Eastern Kentucky.
About Jeffrey
Jeffrey Reddick is best known for creating Final Destination, a blockbuster franchise that redefined modern horror and became a cultural touchstone. But before his work hit the big screen, Reddick was a teenager in Breathitt County writing letters to New Line Cinema, determined to find a path forward in the film industry.
His persistence paid off. After landing an internship with the studio, he eventually sold the script that would launch his career, and terrify a generation of horror fans.
Today, Reddick continues to write, direct, and speak across the country. His creative voice remains rooted in Eastern Kentucky, where inspiration often strikes close to home. In fact, the infamous scene from Final Destination 2 was born on a drive through the Mountain Parkway, when Reddick found himself driving behind a log truck.
Through his work and advocacy, Reddick champions young creators and encourages communities to see the arts as vital, career-worthy, and transformative.
“We need to show young people that storytelling is a real career path,” he says. “You don’t need to leave your roots behind to find success. You can start creating right where you are.”
Why He’s Coming to the SOAR Summit
Jeffrey’s return to Eastern Kentucky is more than a homecoming, it’s a call to action. At a time when young creatives face both immense opportunity and substantial barriers, his message is clear: it’s time to invest in creative infrastructure and mentorship across Appalachia.
From arts education and media production to the broader promise of the digital economy, Reddick’s insights will resonate with anyone working to unlock the region’s creative potential.
“There are so many talented, hardworking people here who need to be seen,” he says. “If I can play even a small part in bringing attention, inspiration, or resources to the area, that means everything.”
If you believe in the power of the arts to shape Eastern Kentucky’s future, if you want to help create pathways for the next generation of storytellers, filmmakers, musicians, and creatives, this is your moment. Join Jeffrey Reddick in Corbin and help ensure the creative voices of Eastern Kentucky have the platform and support they deserve. Pull up a seat to the table, and make sure your voice is heard.
What You’ll Experience at SOAR Summit 2025
The SOAR Summit is a one-of-a-kind gathering that draws more than 1,200 leaders, doers, and believers from across the region and beyond. From economic development and entrepreneurship to health, education, and workforce, the Summit brings together the people and ideas driving real progress in rural America.
This year’s event promises a powerful lineup of immersive experiences, inspiring voices, and unforgettable moments, including:
- The EKY Experience, presented by Appalachian Regional Healthcare – Our hands-on, high-energy expo where innovation comes alive through interactive exhibits and regional showcases.
- SOAR Inspires Awards (Aug 27), presented by KCTCS – Celebrating the individuals and organizations rewriting the story of Eastern Kentucky.
- Taste of Corbin + A Toast to Corbin (Aug 28) – A high-spirited Summit Reception, presented by Whitaker Bank, sponsored by Corbin Tourism, and powered by Ale-8-One, spotlighting the flavors, culture, and community pride that make Corbin unforgettable.
Featured Keynotes from nationally recognized voices at the Brookings Institution, the Rockefeller Foundation, University of the Cumberlands, and more, offering insight, inspiration, and strategy for building what’s next.
Ticket Options
With Early Bird pricing closed, attendees now have flexible options to join the Summit:
- All-Access Pass – $300
Includes full programming, all Plenary Sessions, Taste of Corbin (Presented by Whitaker Bank), SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS), breakfast (August 28-29), and Lunch (August 28). - 2-Day Programming Pass (Aug. 26–27) – $150
Includes breakout sessions, EKY Experience, and the SOAR Inspires Awards (Presented by KCTCS). - 2-Day Plenary Pass (August 28–29) — $200
Includes Plenary Sessions, the Taste of Corbin reception (Presented by Whitaker Bank), breakfast (August 28-29), and lunch (August 28).
To register and learn more, visit: www.soar-ky.org/summit