LEXINGTON, Ky. — More than 120 students from across the commonwealth with an interest in business and marketing came to Lexington recently for a conference to network with industry professionals, participate in educational sessions, and learn more about the retail sector.
The Kentucky Retail Institute partnered with the Kentucky Department of Education to host the second annual Retail Next-Gen Student Leadership Conference at the Spy Coast Farm Equine Education Center. The agenda focused on retail and the economy, entrepreneurship, business resources and funding options, and career paths and opportunities in retail. It provided a unique opportunity for students to understand how valuable skills can translate into a fulfilling career.
Featured speakers included local entrepreneur and executive director of University of Kentucky’s Community and Economic Development Initiative of Kentucky (CEDIK) Dr. Alison Davis, Target district senior director Travis Farmer, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) senior area manager Michael Ashcraft.
Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) leaders served as conference moderators. These leaders included: Kentucky Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state president Ezra Foote from Calloway County; Kentucky Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) first vice president Avra Boggs from Mason County; and Kentucky Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) vice president of membership Caedmon Chase from Madison County.
“The 2024 Retail Next-Gen Student Leadership Conference was an exciting and engaging event for everyone involved — especially the students who had a front-row opportunity to explore what makes the retail sector so special,” said Cassie Grigsby, president of The Kentucky Retail Institute. “It’s gratifying to see passionate students and seasoned industry professionals gather to share ideas, learn from each other, and shape the future of retail in Kentucky. The future is bright indeed, as we see our next generation of talent already building a solid foundation for their successful careers.”
“It is always a pleasure to work with Cassie Grigsby and the Kentucky Retail Institute,” said Tina Brogli, work-based learning coordinator at the Kentucky Department of Education. “Their contributions to our students have created a meaningful impact on course offerings, experiences, and opportunities in our classrooms across the state. I look forward to next year’s conference and the opportunity to connect our students and teachers with more retail employer partners.”
The 2024 Retail Next-Gen Student Leadership Conference was presented by Lowe’s — with Kroger, Target, and Walmart serving as additional event sponsors.
Participants included students from Bullitt County, Jackson County, Knott County, Knox County, Nelson County, and Fairview Independent (Boyd County) school districts.
The Kentucky Retail Institute promotes the industry through education and workforce development. KRI’s new Retail Leaders Apprenticeship bridges the gap between industry and education and grow Kentucky’s workforce.
More Kentucky business news here.
