After more than five decades in education and community service, Lydie Boone is stepping away from her role at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, making way for new Executive Assistant Katie Blan.
Boone began teaching in 1973 and spent 28 years as an elementary teacher in Hancock County before retiring in 2001. She later joined Owensboro Public Schools as a classified staff member, working as a library aide and attendance clerk until 2017. That year, Boone accepted a part-time position with the Chamber, where she became a familiar face to members and visitors.
“I like to be in the know, and I like being around people,” Boone said. “There is always something exciting happening at the Chamber, and I love what they have done for the community.”
Boone said she was inspired to apply for the position after running into Chamber President and CEO Candance Castlen Brake at a football game. She said Brake and the Chamber team gave her a sense of purpose in retirement.
“I have so many new friends — the people at the Chamber and the people who are members,” Boone said. “Candance has been a great leader. She inspires people with new ideas all the time.”
As she looks ahead, Boone said it’s simply time to slow down. She plans to spend more time with her husband, granddaughter, and extended family while also traveling back to her hometown of Pittsburgh.
Stepping into her role is Blan, a Lewisport native who has spent the past month training alongside Boone.
“It’s an honor,” Blan said. “I can really feel Lydie’s presence and how she has influenced not only our organization but the community. She has been the best mentor I could ever ask for.”
Blan is a graduate of Hancock County High School and the University of Kentucky, where she earned degrees in Environmental Sustainability and Geography. She is pursuing a Master of Public Administration at Eastern Kentucky University.
She said her passion for community development drew her to the Chamber, noting that Brake’s leadership made a lasting impression when they first met during a previous internship.
“I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve the Chamber membership,” Blan said. “Being born and raised in Lewisport, I’ve grown up coming to Owensboro and have made incredible connections. As someone who is passionate about community development and sustainability, I am thrilled to join a team centered around similar values.”
Brake said Blan’s arrival comes at the right time as Boone begins her retirement.
“Our team is so excited to welcome Katie to the Chamber staff,” Brake said. “She brings a breadth of experience in administrative support and community development, and she has the work ethic and innovative spirit that our work requires.”
By: John Kirkpatrick The Owensboro Times