GREENEVILLE – A Tusculum University alumnus who has attained success on multiple levels is teaming with an innovative business professor at the higher education institution to conduct an inspiring master class on delivering effective leadership in a rapidly changing world.
Keddrain “KD” Bowen
“The Future-Ready Leader: Preparing Leaders for an AI-Driven World” will be held Thursday, Sept. 24, from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Meen Center at Tusculum. It will feature Keddrain “KD” Bowen, founder of the nonprofit Mountain Movers Leadership, and David Hite, associate professor of business, who will help attendees navigate the constantly evolving landscape.
The event will focus on leadership, communication, innovation, adaptability, emotional intelligence and the way artificial intelligence is reshaping the workplace. At the same time, Bowen and Hite will reinforce that authentic leadership is more important than ever. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with leaders from across East Tennessee.
“We want attendees to leave with practical tools they can immediately apply in their organizations, careers and communities,” said Bowen, a 2003 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in sport management. “We are here to help and are thrilled to connect with individuals and organizations who are sorting through this new business and education environment and seeking solutions. This is a can’t-miss master class that will enable attendees to move forward confidently as leaders.”
The master class is designed to support business owners, entrepreneurs, executives, managers, educators, nonprofit leaders, students or aspiring professionals. By the end of the session, attendees will learn:
- Practical leadership strategies for today’s changing workplace
- Insights on leading through innovation and change
- Tools to build stronger teams and increase their influence
- Actionable ideas they can implement immediately
“Methods of operation are changing these days at what can seem like a dizzying pace, and that can be overwhelming for those who are not equipped to adapt,” Hite said. “The beauty of this master class is that KD and I will help leaders know how to calmly manage these changing times and achieve strong performance in business, the classroom and other settings. We are excited to support these leaders.”
David Hite
In addition to establishing Mountain Movers, Bowen is well-known as the founder of Fanatics 101, a sports apparel and memorabilia store in Johnson City that he started operating from the trunk of his car. He is a serial entrepreneur, author of multiple books and an international speaker. He also embraces civic engagement with leadership roles in organizations such as the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce, Good Samaritan Ministries and Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Hite also serves as director of Tusculum’s Center for Free Enterprise and New Venture Creation, which helps students and community members nurture and grow their ideas for businesses and products. The center held a highly successful first Pitch Day in April. He is an accomplished educator, consultant and leader in corporate training with about 30 years of experience in East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. He has conducted numerous presentations, workshops and speeches all over the United States as well as studied business in more than 30 countries.
The cost for the master class is just $49.95. Anyone who is interested can purchase tickets and learn more at https://www.keddrainbowen.com/2026events. Additional information about the university is available at www.tusculum.edu.