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Welcome to the preview page for the Governor's Conference on Leadership, Equality, Accessibility and Diversity (LEAD)! This conference is one of the largest events of its kind in the region. Attendees will hear from a powerful line-up of speakers addressing various topics centered on leadership, equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. Stay tuned as we prepare to announce details for #KyLEAD2024! ​

Who will be there?

In 2023, the Governor's LEAD Conference featured Natahsa Bowman, founder of The Bowman Foundation for Workplace Equity and Mental Wellness, as the keynote speaker. As we are currently planning another amazing line-up of speakers and programming packed with topics relevant to current and future leaders in the workforce, check back here for updates and follow-up on social media for the latest 2024 LEAD Conference news.

Why should I attend?

This professional development opportunity attracts employees in the fields of management, legal, human resources, administration and diversity from across the U.S. Not only will attendees be provided with diversity and inclusion resources and tools to lead and affect positive change, but some attendees will also be eligible to receive professional development credit. Additionally, we will hold a special presentation of the Charles W. Anderson Laureate Award; George W. Wilson, Sr. Equity Achievement Award; and the IMPACT Award. For more information or questions about the 2023 Governor's Conference on Leadership, Equality, Accessibility and Diversity (LEAD), please contact the Office of Diversity, Equality and Training at 502.564.8000. ​​


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This award recognizes the achievements of Kentuckians who have made significant contributions to promoting equal employment opportunities, pioneered diversity initiatives, or significantly contributed to the advancement of any protected class. The Kentucky Personnel Cabinet will present the Charles W. Anderson Laureate Award during the 2023 Governor's LEAD Conference. Since 1989, the Charles W. Anderson Laureate Award recipients have included Governor Steven Beshear, Whitney M. Young Jr. and Muhammad Ali. In 2022, the Personnel Cabinet named the ne​w Charles W. Anderson Laureate, Gerina Whethers​. ​


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 The IMPACT Award will recognize one current Executive Branch employee who within the past year has made significant contributions towards advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace.


Innovation: An inclusive environment encourages innovation, individuals and agencies can flourish, employment satisfaction is enhanced and cost-saving techniques can be employed.

Motivation: Employees are motivated to not only achieve their Cabinet, Department or Office goals and objectives, but also develop an understanding of the important role diversity and inclusion plays in the organizational structure.

Purpose: A strong purpose speaks to every individual and community as a whole. In the context of diversity, equity and inclusion, it creates a shared commitment to building an equitable workforce and effective organization.

Accountability: Infusing accountability at the organizational and individual level is key to building diverse organizations with inclusive cultures.

Collaboration: Everyone must be willing and able to work together in new and collaborative ways. Collaboration positively impacts productivity, fosters understanding among fellow employees and enhances organizational performance.

Transformation: Creating a diverse and inclusive culture requires more than just making a few changes; it requires transformation. ​


For more information, please contact the Office of Diversity, Equality and Training at 502.564.8000.