Barren Inc. announces award recipients at the Sybil Leamon Volunteer Awards News Conference

GLASGOW, Ky. – This morning, Barren Inc., the Barren County Chamber of Commerce, hosted the annual Sybil Leamon Volunteer Awards News Conference, recognizing the outstanding contributions of its members.

The event highlighted four prestigious awards: Young Professional of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, Board Member of the Year and the Sybil Leamon Volunteer of the Year.

The Young Professional of the Year Award was established to recognize an emerging leader who demonstrates professional excellence, community involvement and a commitment to the future of Barren County.

Revived in 2024, the Young Professionals of Barren County program now includes nearly 50 members representing 39 businesses, making the selection process highly competitive.

The inaugural recipient, Ryan Hinkley of Elmore Real Estate, played a pivotal role in the program’s revival and has been a consistent and passionate supporter. He serves on the YPBC Leadership Committee, is a graduate of the 2024 Lead Forward: Leadership Barren County class, served as a Den Parent in 2025, and continues to give back as a member of the Chamber Foundation Board. Ryan is also active with the South Central Kentucky Association of REALTORS®, Inc. His dedication, leadership, and willingness to step up have made a lasting impact and set the standard for this award.

The next award presented was the Ambassador of the Year Award, which honors an individual who consistently exceeds expectations in their role as a Chamber Ambassador. Ambassadors play a vital role in advancing the Chamber’s mission by volunteering at events, fostering member engagement, and connecting local businesses with Chamber resources.

This year’s recipient, Cathy Jo Wilson of Service One Credit Union, has been a dedicated Ambassador since 2024. She actively supports the Chamber by volunteering at numerous events, attending ribbon cuttings and member celebrations, and assisting with member recruitment and retention efforts. With nearly a decade of banking experience, Cathy Jo brings a strong commitment to customer service and relationship-building. She has quickly become an integral part of her team at Service One Credit Union and continues to make a meaningful impact through her leadership and service to both the Chamber and the community.

The spotlight then shifted to the Board Member of the Year Award, a distinction given to a member of the Chamber Board of Directors who demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication.

This year’s honoree, Chris Houchens of Commonwealth Broadcasting, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the Chamber’s marketing and outreach efforts through the development of a valuable partnership that provides new Chamber members with a complimentary radio advertisement—an impactful benefit that helps businesses gain early exposure. Chris has also worked closely with Chamber staff to enhance the Chamber’s overall marketing strategy by securing on-air promotions for members and events and expanding the Chamber’s reach through digital advertising. With an extensive background in media, marketing, and business leadership, Chris brings both industry expertise and a deep commitment to the community, making him a deserving recipient of the Board Member of the Year Award.

The final and most prestigious award presented was the Sybil Leamon Volunteer of the Year Award, named in honor of the late Sybil Leamon and recognizing an individual whose lifelong commitment to service embodies the heart of the Chamber and community.

This year’s recipient, Janis Turner, has been a trusted leader and dedicated volunteer for many years, serving the Chamber in numerous capacities including Ambassador, Board Member, and Executive Team Committee member. A graduate of Lead Forward: Leadership Barren County and a former Protogenia Recipient, Janis has played a vital role in recruiting and retaining members, securing sponsorships for Chamber initiatives, mentoring new members and volunteering at nearly every Chamber event.

Beyond Barren Inc., her service extends throughout the community through leadership roles with the Glasgow Business & Professional Women’s Club, the Joint City-County Planning Commission, CASA of Southern Kentucky and the Rotary Club of Glasgow-Barren County.

Professionally, Janis dedicated 50 years to the banking industry before retiring in 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by service, mentorship, and integrity. Her unwavering dedication and quiet leadership reflect the very values this award represents. Volunteers are the foundation of a strong and successful Chamber, playing a vital role in advancing the mission and strengthening the communities they serve.

“Our volunteers are truly the heartbeat of Barren Inc., and we are incredibly grateful for the individuals who continually step up with their time, talents, and passion,” said Maureen Carpenter, President & CEO of Barren Inc. “Each of this year’s award recipients has made a meaningful impact on our organization and our community, and we sincerely thank them for their unwavering dedication and service.”