Craft Academy hosts 5th Annual Alumni Leadership Conference
The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics celebrated its 5th Annual Alumni Leadership Conference, bringing together graduates, faculty, and community partners for a day of networking, inspiration, and recognition.
A highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion featuring prominent Kentucky executives who shared insights on leadership, innovation, and the evolving workforce. The panel discussion, moderated by Jane Brady Knight, executive director of Craft Philanthropy, provided alumni with practical advice on advancing their careers and contributing to their communities.
Panel members included Jaymie Haydon, president of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation; Kerry Creech, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky (TMMK); and Hollie Harris, president/CEO of Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH).
The panelists emphasized the importance of adaptability, lifelong learning, and collaboration in today's competitive landscape while underscoring the critical role of effective communication and strategic adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). They noted that these skills are essential for driving innovation, enhancing productivity, and ensuring organizations remain agile in a rapidly changing economy.
"Celebrating our alumni and connecting them with Kentucky's business leaders underscores the Academy's mission to prepare young leaders for success in a rapidly changing world," said Morehead State University President Dr. Jay Morgan. "Craft Academy graduates are driving innovation and making a real impact."
In addition to the panel, the Craft Academy proudly recognized exceptional graduates with its Outstanding Alumni Awards, honoring individuals who have demonstrated remarkable achievements in academics, professional endeavors, and service. These honorees exemplify the Craft Academy's mission to empower students to excel in STEM fields and beyond.
Dr. Naail Tariq (Class of 2017), originally from Russell High School, earned four bachelor’s degrees from Western Kentucky University and studied abroad in Mexico, Spain and Taiwan. He completed a Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine at Lincoln Memorial University and is now in his second year of family medicine residency at Case Western Reserve University’s MetroHealth program. Tariq continues to mentor Craft Academy students, embodying the spirit of giving back.
Griffin Smith (Class of 2017), originally from Lafayette High School, earned a B.S. and M.S. in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Systems Engineering, focusing on nuclear propulsion research. His work includes multiple publications on lunar energy systems, and he has served as a NASA Graduate Pathways Intern, with another NASA assignment scheduled for 2026. Griffin also mentors current Craft Academy students.
Dr. Callie Arnold (Class of 2018), originally from Montgomery County High School, graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Morehead State before earning her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Kentucky. She is now an emergency medicine resident at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Her research on smooth muscle cell adaptation to microgravity was published in the FASEB Journal.
Claire Butler (Class of 2020), originally from the J. Graham Brown School in Louisville, earned a B.S. in Biomedical Health Sciences from Purdue University. Arnold studied abroad in Denmark, assisting with neuroscience research on cognitive deficits. She has held multiple leadership roles, received the Outstanding Student Service Award for over 100 hours of community service, and currently serves as clinical research data manager at the University of Chicago Biological Sciences Division, supporting cancer research initiatives.
Duncan McGinnis (Class of 2022), originally from Greenup, is currently at Centre College pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. McGinnis has earned honors that include the National Merit Scholar, the James Graham Brown Fellowship, and the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship. He conducted research at the Mayo Clinic on genetic variants causing polycystic kidney disease and studied abroad in Scotland. McGinnis is also an accomplished musician and active in philanthropic efforts that support youth and Appalachian communities.
"Seeing our alumni thrive and return to share their journeys is incredibly rewarding," said Dr. Carol Christian, Director of the Craft Academy. "These award winners aren't just high achievers; they're role models for current students. Their stories remind us why we do this work and how the Craft Academy experience can truly change lives."
The Annual Alumni Conference serves as a cornerstone event for the Craft Academy, fostering mentorship, collaboration, and continued engagement among its growing network of leaders and innovators.
The Craft Academy proudly welcomed alumna Katie Stumbo-Kaufmann (Class of 2020) as the event’s featured speaker. Stumbo-Kaufmann is an M.D. candidate at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and continues to give back to the Craft Academy by mentoring students interested in careers across the medical field. During her time at Craft Academy, Katie founded MEDX, a student-led club designed to inspire and support peers pursuing medicine and healthcare professions.
The Craft Academy, located at Morehead State University, is a premier dual-credit, residential academy for academically exceptional Kentucky students. The Academy provides a rigorous curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, preparing graduates for success in college and beyond.
The Craft Academy aims to meet the unique educational needs of the Commonwealth's academically gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors.
To learn more, visit the Craft Academy website, email craftacademy@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2093.
Photo: 2025 Outstanding Alumni Award winners in attendance pictured with Morehead State University President Dr. Jay Morgan (far left) include (from left to right) Claire Butler (Class of 2020), Duncan McGinnis (Class of 2022) and Griffin Smith (Class of 2017).
