Executive Director
Blair Haydon
Blair Haydon is Executive Director of Emerge Kentucky serving in her role from November 2016 to May 2020 and resuming her role in January of 2022. A native of Springfield, KY, Blair’s background is in social work and special education. Her previous positions and experience include Buckhorn Children and Family Services where she ran a Transitional Living Program for Homeless Pregnant teens. She spent nine years serving in the public school system as the Director of 21st Century Community Learning Centers where she coordinated programs for students focusing on drug and violence prevention. Blair served in Governor Beshear’s Office of Early Childhood where she focused on implementing the Strengthening Families framework statewide. Before returning as the Executive Director of Emerge, she spent time as the Political Director for Amy McGrath’s Campaign for US Senate. She resides in Lexington, KY with her husband and their three children.
Outreach Coordinator
Carmellia Jackson
Carmellia Jackson is a passionate advocate and community builder dedicated to expanding representation and equity in Kentucky politics.
Rooted in her experience as a therapist and nonprofit leader, Carmellia brings a people-centered approach to political engagement—one that emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and collective care. She believes that the best leaders are those who listen deeply, act boldly, and stay connected to the communities they serve.
A proud alumna of Emerge Kentucky herself, Carmellia knows firsthand the transformative power of women’s political leadership. She continues to use her platform to empower women of color, working-class Kentuckians, and emerging community voices to see themselves as changemakers in both policy and culture.