Dr. Jeff Hawkins directs the Kentucky Valley Educational Cooperative (KVEC) serving 23 rural school districts in Appalachian Kentucky. KVEC is a place-based multi-tiered learning network, focusing attention on teaching, learning and leadership. The overarching mission is to lead and direct sustainable systemic improvement that drives learner success and asset-based community reinvention through innovation in systems design, resource use and human capital development. KVEC works to reframe the education and community narrative about rural Appalachia driven by the belief that everyone is a learner, a leader and a maker. Hawkins is a former teacher, coach, administrator, Artist in Education and Kentucky Distinguished Educator. Hawkins is the co-author of the Perpetuating Excellence in Teaching, Leadership and Learning, and is the co-founder of the Appalshop's Appalachian Media Institute. Hawkins was recognized as one of nine 2019 "Leaders to Learn From" by Education Week Magazine.