Honoring Former Governor and GC Executive Scholar in Residence Martha Layne Collins
Submitted on November 1, 2025
Martha Layne Collins left an unmistakable legacy on the Commonwealth. As its first and only woman governor, she led lasting educational reforms and brought industries to Kentucky which continue to benefit families across the Bluegrass. Her dedication to education brought her to Georgetown College in 1998 as Executive Scholar in Residence, serving in the role until 2012.
“She was such a powerful presence on campus, lending strength and credibility to this College,” said Georgetown College’s President, Dr. Rosemary Allen. “When I moved into the College’s administration in 2004, she provided a model of strong, principled, and nuanced leadership. She was extraordinary in so many ways. To this day, when asked who has inspired me as a woman in leadership, my answer is Martha Layne Collins."
Her dynamic leadership made a lasting impression not only on Kentucky but on thousands of Georgetown alumni, faculty, and staff. Laura Owsley ’92 recalls, “Governor Collins was one of the most amazing leaders with whom I’ve ever had the opportunity to work. I have fond memories of our conversations during our days working together at GC from 2005 to 2012. She had a knack for making everyone she met feel like they had been friends forever. When she walked into a room, everyone flocked to her. What a legacy she leaves behind as Governor, as an educator, and as a role model not only for women but all who aspire to be leaders.” Owsley served GC as Director of Alumni Relations and worked alongside Collins.
GC alumnus Roy Lowdenback ‘05 worked with Collins when he served as Associate Vice President for Advancement and Chief Development Officer. He shared, “Governor Martha Layne Collins was the true embodiment of a leader, and I was fortunate to call her a mentor and friend. She was strategic and business minded, but what set her apart was the way she valued people and relationships. She believed in being of and for the people - determined to visit every single county in Kentucky and to hear and know those she had the honor to serve. It was that same commitment to people that brought Toyota to Kentucky, bringing economic strength that still serves us today. I carry with me so many of the examples, stories and values learned by working with her. Even the way I am raising my daughters has been shaped by her example as a powerful, female leader. Rest easy, Governor, and thank you.”
Former Governor Martha Layne Collins will lie in state in the rotunda at the Old State Capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky, Sunday, November 9, 12 - 4 p.m. The family of Governor Collins has designated the Martha Layne Collins Leadership Scholarship at Georgetown College as one of their preferred options for honoring her legacy. Gift can be made online or mailed to Georgetown College, 400 East College Street, Georgetown, KY 40324.
The death of Governor Collins signals the end of an era for Kentucky but also the continued hope for the future of our Commonwealth and the role higher education plays in that future.
