The Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce has announced a new scholarship opportunity for its Leadership Huntington program, made possible through the generosity of Mike Kirtley, owner and CEO of Kirtley Insurance.

Valued at $1,500, the Kirtley Insurance Scholarship will be awarded annually for three consecutive years to an eligible nonprofit or small business leader. The scholarship aims to make Leadership Huntington more accessible to local professionals who are eager to expand their leadership skills, build community connections and make a lasting impact in the region.

“With so many businesses being small, start-up, or nonprofit, the price for this training could hinder so many people from even applying because they do not have the available funds,” Kirtley said. “A new wave of business talent is emerging, and their success is essential to our region’s growth. We all must do our part to ensure that the next generation will be there. It’s a privilege to have a small impact on the future of our area.”

Leadership Huntington is a community leadership program designed to cultivate civic engagement, strengthen regional partnerships and empower participants to lead with purpose. Through this new scholarship, the Chamber and Kirtley Insurance are working together to ensure that deserving individuals have the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial constraints.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mike and the Kirtley Insurance team for their generous support in making this opportunity possible,” said Megan Archer, President and CEO of the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This scholarship reflects our community’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders. By removing financial barriers, we will continue to empower our small business owners and nonprofit professionals who are deeply invested in our region’s future.”

Details regarding eligibility and applications will be available in February 2026 through the Chamber’s website at huntingtonchamber.org. In honor of Giving Tuesday, individuals or businesses interested in contributing to the Leadership Huntington Scholarship Fund are encouraged to contact Chamber President & CEO Megan Archer at megan@huntingtonchamber.org. All contributions to the Chamber Foundation are tax-deductible.

For the most up-to-date listing of Chamber events, visit www.business.huntingtonchamber.org/calendar.

ABOUT THE HUNTINGTON REGIONAL CHAMBER 

As the region’s leading business advocate for more than 130 years and a partner in economic development, the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit association that promotes a thriving business community in Cabell and Wayne counties by connecting people, places, and resources. Learn more: www.huntingtonchamber.org