Today was another incredible regional CEO event bringing together students from Union, Jefferson, Jackson, Johnson, and Saline Counties—and the energy in the room was undeniable.
Instead of asking “Who’s stopping you?”, today challenged students to look inward and recognize the opportunities right in front of them.
Our guest speaker, TJ Cowan, owner of Cold Blooded Coffee Co. and Cold Blood Smokehouse & Catering, set the tone with engaging icebreakers, real-world insight, and powerful truth. One message that resonated deeply:
“Drowning people won’t deny help.”
A reminder to recognize when opportunity shows up—and to have the courage to take it.
TJ encouraged students to leverage the CEO opportunity, emphasizing that statistics show CEO students are up to 10 years ahead of their peers. Why? Because they learn how to spot opportunities, act on them, and continually ask, “How do I make this 1% better?”
Events like these are why CEO continues to open doors and create pathways for students to grow, stretch, and develop into confident leaders and problem-solvers.
We wrapped up a powerful day of learning and connection with lunch at Cracker Barrel—because the best conversations happen over good food.
Grateful for moments like these that spark purpose, possibility, and action.
