September 2026 Editor’s Letter
That spirit of leadership and community is at the heart of one of our favorite issues of the year: 40 Under 40. Inside, we’re proud to introduce 40 outstanding young leaders making an impact across a wide range of industries throughout South Central Kentucky. From business and healthcare to education, nonprofit work and beyond, this year’s class represents the talent, ambition and heart helping shape the future of our community. We’re also excited to share our VIP Profile on WKU Volleyball Head Coach Travis Hudson. Known as the architect of WKU Volleyball, Coach Hudson has built an incredible legacy on the Hill while leaving an impact that reaches far beyond the court. This issue also takes us inside a remarkable 100-year-old historic garden on property that sits within the former encampment of Civil War-era Fort C.F. Smith. It’s a beautiful reminder of the history tucked throughout Bowling Green and the stories that can be found right in our own backyards. Continuing our focus on leadership, you’ll also find editorial features highlighting some of Bowling Green’s influential voices, including Jim Page and Dan Harbison, and the ways they are helping guide our community into its next chapter. Of course, no issue of VIP would be complete without a look at the celebrations bringing people together. From exciting local events to familiar faces out and about, these pages capture another fun and busy season in Bowling Green. I hope you enjoy getting to know this year’s 40 Under 40 class and all of the people, places and stories filling this issue. As the weather begins to cool, football season gets underway and our calendars fill with community events, there’s something special about welcoming fall in Bowling Green and looking forward to all the season has in store. Thank you, as always, for supporting VIP Bowling Green.
Happy fall,
Amelia Bowen