In 1999, the Martha Layne Collins Leadership Award was created and presented to former Governor Collins for her contributions to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and its people. This award recognizes Kentucky women of achievement who inspire and motivate other women through their personal, community and professional lives. Award recipient is honored at the Women Leading Kentucky Leadership Awards Luncheon held in November.

During her administration (1983-1987), Governor Collins chose economic development and education as the issues that needed attention in order to improve the lives of Kentuckians.  The results were a $300 million school improvement package and a new Toyota automobile plant in Georgetown benefiting thousands of individual Kentuckians, businesses, and communities, as well as putting Kentucky on the world map. Governor Collins has also served as President of St. Catharine’s College, Executive in Residence at U of L and Georgetown College, Director of the International Business and Management Center at the University of Kentucky, and CEO/President of the Kentucky World Trade Center.  She has served on several national boards and as Honorary Consul General to Japan.   

Martha Layne Collins has demonstrated, through her continuing and varied accomplishments, that women can use their leadership abilities, education and determination to master whatever career or profession they choose. Gov. Collins has been involved with Women Leading Kentucky since it was founded in 1999, guiding, inspiring and mentoring the development of programs and people.  She served as Chair of the Advisory Council for many years and is an inspiration and role model for women throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky and beyond.   

Nomination Deadline: June 1, 2022