Owensboro Living and Owensboro Times are launching “20 in 2026,” a new initiative that will highlight 20 local people whose work, service, or vision is helping shape the future of Owensboro-Daviess County. Know someone worth recognizing? Nominations are open now.
Honorees will span a range of fields, including professional and civic leadership, religious leadership, creative industries, and nonprofit work.
Honorees will be announced in the January issue of Owensboro Living magazine. Each honoree will be profiled with a professional headshot, short biography, and highlights of their achievements and goals. Honorees will also later be featured in an issue of the Owensboro Times quarterly newspaper.
Nomination process and selection
Nominations must be submitted by November 7. Nomination forms can be accessed here.
Individuals may be nominated by themselves or by others. Nominees must live, work, or make a significant impact in Owensboro-Daviess County. They must be 18 years of age or older.
A selection committee will review all nominations, and 20 individuals will be chosen to represent a diverse cross-section of the community. Considerations will include impact, leadership, and balance across industries and demographics.
Categories for evaluation
Each nominee will be considered based on the following areas (not all must apply, but demonstrating impact across multiple categories will strengthen consideration):
- Civic engagement
- Community service, volunteerism, nonprofit involvement, or leadership in local organizations.
- Professional experience
- Career achievements, entrepreneurship, innovation, or advancement in their field.
- Religious leadership
- Contributions to faith-based communities through service, outreach, mentorship, or leadership roles.
- Personal and professional goals for 2026
- Aspirations for career growth, community involvement, or personal development.
- Additional considerations
- Impact on peers, mentorship, creative or artistic contributions, and overall character.
- Honors, awards, and recognitions
- Local, regional, or national accolades for professional or personal contributions.
