Kentucky River Area Development District
Oct 22, 2026
Annual gathering highlights national recognition, community accomplishments and leadership across the eight-county region
Regional accomplishments, national recognition and community leadership took center stage as the Kentucky River Area Development District (KRADD) celebrated its 58th annual meeting Aug. 26 at the National Guard Armory in Hazard.
The gathering brought together board members, staff and community partners to reflect on the district's achievements during fiscal year 2026 and recognize individuals and communities making a difference across the eight-county Kentucky River region.
A highlight of the meeting was the release of KRADD's Annual Impact Report, detailing accomplishments across Breathitt, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Owsley, Perry and Wolfe counties. Among those achievements was the district's receipt of the 2026 National Association of Development Organizations Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award for its Regional Disaster Resilience and Preparedness Project.
The report also highlighted KRADD's efforts to secure infrastructure and economic development funding, expand services for older adults and assist local governments with grant development and project administration.
“Although challenges remain, I am confident in the future of our region,” KRADD Executive Director Michelle Allen wrote in the report's opening letter. “Together, we will continue to strengthen communities, create opportunities, and improve the quality of life for the people we proudly serve.”
The meeting featured several awards, including the inaugural Employee of the Year Award, presented to Andrea Dixon. The city of Campton was named Community of the Year, while Judge/Executive Zeke Little Jr., Judge/Executive Terry Adams and Lonnie Brewer received Outstanding Leadership Awards.
KRADD also introduced Board Service Certificates recognizing members with 10 or more years of service. Honorees included Derek Bowling, Meriwether Wash-Hall, Mayor Todd DePriest, Judge/Executive Scott Alexander, Pam Pilgrim, Mayor Scott Cornett, Gary Campbell, Larry Parke and Mayor Carol Joseph.
Nancye Combs, founder of HR Enterprise Inc., served as the guest speaker, delivering remarks on leadership and legacy.
The meeting concluded with a focus on building upon the district's accomplishments and continuing efforts to strengthen communities throughout the Kentucky River region in fiscal year 2027.