The Community Foundation awards 2026 South Central Kentuckian of the Year

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky hosted a luncheon at the Knicely Conference Center to honor this year’s South Central Kentuckian of the Year.

This year’s award was presented to Mickeye Murphy and her late husband, Mike Murphy.

Organizers say the honor recognizes individuals who demonstrate generosity, civic responsibility and a strong commitment to the future of the region.

They say the Murphy’s embodied those values through their leadership and service to south-central Kentucky.

“One of the best ways to promote philanthropy in our area is to recognize those who are already doing an excellent job and living it out in their everyday lives,” said Jennifer Wethington, executive director of the Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky.

“Mike and Mickeye are people we wanted to honor because they’ve done so much for our community. We love being able to raise awareness and promote what’s good in our community,” she added.

The Murphys’ daughter, Sarah Murphy Ford, also reflected on the legacy she hopes her parents leave behind.

“I want their message and legacy to be that every person can make a difference,” Ford said. “Each person can use their gifts, talents and resources to give back to others, and together we can lift up our community.”

Organizers say Mike Murphy also served on the board that helped establish the award 15 years ago.

The award itself is made using stone quarried by Murphy’s grandfather and used in Bowling Green streets.