Lexington, Kentucky, January 6, 2026
Commerce Lexington has appointed its 2026 Executive Board members, showcasing a diverse group of leaders from various sectors including banking, healthcare, and education. This board is designed to enhance representation and foster economic growth in the Lexington area. With prominent leaders at the helm, Commerce Lexington aims to address regional challenges and promote local businesses effectively. The newly elected members will begin their terms on January 1, 2026, with a commitment to driving community engagement and economic development.
Lexington, Kentucky – In an exciting development for the local business community, Commerce Lexington has unveiled its 2026 Executive Board members, effective January 1, 2026. This newly appointed board features distinguished leaders from various sectors, including banking, construction, education, and healthcare, signaling the organization’s commitment to fostering diverse representation among business leaders in the region.
2026 Executive Board Members
- Chair: Ray Daniels, Owner of Equity Solutions Group
- Immediate Past Chair: Tucker Ballinger, President of Forcht Bank
- Chair-Elect: Cassidy Rosenthal, Executive Member at Stites & Harbison, PLLC
- Vice Chair, Public Policy & Regional Engagement: Carla Blanton, Owner of Carla Blanton Consulting
- Vice Chair, Membership & Engagement: Ron Tritschler, CEO of The Webb Companies
- Vice Chair, Communications: Jeff Koonce, Market President at WesBanco Bank
- Vice Chair, Economic Development: Luther Deaton, President of Central Bank & Trust Co.
- Secretary: Robert L. Quick, President & CEO of Commerce Lexington
- Treasurer: Debbie Smith, Partner at MCM CPAs & Advisors LLP
- At-Large Members: Daryl Smith, Economic Development Project Manager at LG&E and KU Energy; Doug Barr, Managing Partner at Stoll Keenon Ogden PLLC; Greg Mullins, Director at Blue & Co.; Branden Gross, Managing Partner at Dentons Bingham Greenebaum, LLP; and Danny Murphy, Senior Assistant Dean of Community Engagement & Operations/Chief Diversity Officer at UK College of Law.
New Additions to the Board
- David Freibert, Director of External Affairs at Kentucky Utilities
- John Gohmann, Regional President at PNC Bank
- Tom Harris, Vice President of University Relations at the University of Kentucky
- Kevin Atkins, Chief Development Officer for the City of Lexington
- Bob Hewett, Chairman of FULL STRIDE
- Martha Jones, Treasurer at FULL STRIDE
- Daryl Smith, Economic Development Project Manager at LG&E and KU Energy
- Toa Green, Owner/Master Ice Cream Crafter at Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream
- Kim Menke, Regional Director of Government Affairs at Toyota Motor North America
About Commerce Lexington
Commerce Lexington serves as a vital business organization dedicated to fostering economic development and enhancing the quality of life across the Lexington area. By supporting local businesses and advocating for pro-business policies, the organization promotes community engagement and works to enhance the economic landscape.
Key Insights on Business Leadership
The diverse composition of the Executive Board reflects a multifaceted approach to addressing challenges and opportunities in Lexington’s economy. With leaders from various industries, Commerce Lexington is poised to advocate effectively for policies that favor small business resilience and entrepreneurship.
The presence of members like Ray Daniels and Tucker Ballinger at the helm indicates a strong emphasis on economic stewardship and community support. Their combined experience will likely contribute to a favorable regulatory environment that can stimulate further investment and innovation within the region.
Impact on Economic Development
Commerce Lexington clearly recognizes the importance of private investment in driving job creation and economic expansion. By positioning leaders with robust backgrounds in sectors like banking, education, and utilities, the board is set to not only enhance local businesses but also advance public-private partnerships that can lead to infrastructure improvements and regional growth initiatives.
Conclusion
The 2026 Executive Board of Commerce Lexington stands ready to inspire progress through its diverse leadership. As Lexington continues to develop, residents and local business owners alike are encouraged to engage with trade groups and support initiatives that promote economic growth. The future looks bright for Lexington’s entrepreneurial landscape, driven by innovative leaders who champion the values of resilience and determination. By staying active in the community and supporting local businesses, every citizen can play a part in shaping a robust economic future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Commerce Lexington?
Commerce Lexington is a leading business organization dedicated to fostering economic development and enhancing the quality of life in the Lexington area. Through its various programs and initiatives, the organization supports local businesses, advocates for pro-business policies, and promotes community engagement.
Who are the new members of the 2026 Executive Board?
The new members of the 2026 Executive Board include leaders from various sectors, such as banking, construction, education, and healthcare, reflecting the organization’s commitment to diverse representation in the business community.
How can I contact Commerce Lexington?
For more information about Commerce Lexington and its programs, please visit their official website at www.commercelexington.com.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Executive Board Composition | Leaders from various sectors, including banking, construction, education, and healthcare, reflecting diverse representation in the business community. |
| About Commerce Lexington | A leading business organization dedicated to fostering economic development and enhancing the quality of life in the Lexington area. |
| Contact Information | For more information about Commerce Lexington and its programs, please visit their official website at www.commercelexington.com. |
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
