The Kentucky Association of School Administrators (KASA) announces the selection of 27 educators representing 19 school districts and two educational cooperatives for the 2027 Kentucky Women in Education Leadership (KWEL) cohort.
The new cohort brings together principals, assistant principals, teachers, counselors, district leaders and other education professionals who share a commitment to student success and strengthening leadership across Kentucky.
The KWEL initiative cultivates a strong community of women education leaders by promoting knowledge, confidence and equity through personal growth, mentorship and career development. Designed to support women across all levels of educational leadership, KWEL provides opportunities for connection, learning and professional advancement.
“These educators bring talent, experience and a deep commitment to the students and communities they serve,” said Dr. Rhonda Caldwell, KASA chief executive officer. “Through KWEL, they will build relationships that challenge and encourage them, strengthen their confidence and prepare them to take the next step in their leadership.”
Participants benefit from mentorship by executive-level leaders, meaningful professional learning experiences, and connections with a statewide network of peers who share a commitment to leadership excellence. Together, these opportunities equip participants to make an even greater impact within their schools, districts, and communities.
“Leadership grows when women have opportunities to learn from one another and put new ideas into practice,” said Dr. Kathy Fields, KASA director of leadership development. “KWEL combines that shared learning with mentorship and practical support, helping each participant build on her strengths and expand her impact.”
The 2027 KWEL cohort will be formally inducted during the KWEL Leadership Forum, scheduled for January 27-28, 2027, at the Marriott Griffin Gate in Lexington. The two-day event will bring together current and aspiring female leaders from across Kentucky for meaningful dialogue, inspiration, and professional growth.
Leaders selected for the 2026 cohort include:
1. Jenna Brown, Meade County Schools
2. Diana Cline, Bath County Schools
3. Teri Lynn Dandy, Elizabethtown Independent Schools
4. Amber Driver, Danville Independent Schools
5. Tiffany Felty, Carter County Schools
6. Lyndsay Fowler, LaRue County Schools
7. Jerrica Funkhouser, Danville Independent Schools
8. Ashton Giles, Fulton County Schools
9. Sara Harris, Wayne County Schools
10. Holly Hibbard, Ed.D., Southeast South-Central Educational Cooperative
11. Chelsea Hill, Harrison County Schools
12. Kim Hinton, Central Kentucky Educational Cooperative
13. Brooke Knight, Warren County Schools
14. Richae T. Logan, Bardstown Independent Schools
15. Emily Marshall, Fleming County Schools
16. Kimberly Marshall, Harrison County Schools
17. Megan McAlister, Meade County Schools
18. Megan Radivonyk, Lyon County Schools
19. Kimberly Reibert, Bullitt County Schools
20. Lisa Rigazio, Bullitt County Schools
21. Amy Riley, Anderson County Schools
22. Tasha Seig, Paducah Independent Schools
23. Tiffany Smith, Fayette County Schools
24. Mallory Sterling, Simpson County Schools
25. Amanda Walker, Lyon County Schools
26. Elizabeth (Liz) Watkins, Bath County Schools
27. Kelli Willett, Union County Schools
About KASA:
KASA is the largest school administrator group in Kentucky, representing more than 3,300 education leaders from across the commonwealth. Formed in 1969, KASA connects education leaders to policymakers, legislators, and other interest groups and provides numerous benefits to Kentucky’s school administrators.