I am running for Berea City Council because I care deeply about the future of the community that has shaped my family for generations.

My roots in Berea go back six generations. My father graduated from Berea College, but like many young people from our region, he felt he had to leave home to find greater opportunities. I was raised in Florida, hearing stories about Berea and the values that made this place special. When I was 22, I made the decision to come home.

Returning to Berea allowed me to reconnect with my family's history, but it also gave me a new perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing our community. Through my work across Appalachia, I have met countless young people who care deeply about where they come from but struggle to see a future for themselves there. Too often, our brightest young leaders feel they must leave in order to build the life they want.

I believe one of the most important questions we can ask as a community is this: How do we create the quality of life, opportunities, and sense of belonging that inspire people to stay, return, and invest their talents here?

That means supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, creating vibrant public spaces, investing in arts and culture, expanding housing options, strengthening community connections, and ensuring that local government is responsive to residents' needs. It means building a Berea where young people can imagine not just growing up here, but building their future here.

I am running because I love this community, I believe in its potential, and I want to help ensure that future generations have the opportunity to thrive in the place they call home.

Leah Van Winkle Berea City Council Campaign

Team Members