Harrodsburg/Mercer Co. Tourist Commission

Chairperson

Along with serving on the tourism board, Nikki also serves as the chair of the Mercer County Community Endowment Board. She is also the co-owner of JM Elliott Properties, J. Elliott Heating and Air and J Elliott Kwik Wash. Nikki currently resides in Mercer County with her husband, Jonathan, and their three children Claire, Henry and Sam.

“Mercer County has so much to offer its residents and visitors alike. I am proud to be a part of the efforts to make the gem of Central Kentucky shine bright.”

Treasurer

Tia King Taylor is a life-long resident of Mercer County and joined the  Tourist Commission as a lodging representative on behalf of Bright Leaf Golf Resort in September 2018. She has been employed at Bright Leaf since 1998 and is now part-owner. Tia said, “My husband, John David Taylor, and I love our hometown and hope our three daughters have the desire and potential to thrive here with families of their own.”

“Tourism is not only critical for our business, but important for the success and growth of our historic town.”

Vice Chairperson

Leigh enjoys spending time with her two children, Chase and Charleigh. She has owned and operated local restaurant, Casa Grande, for more than five years.

Along with owning her own business, Leigh is involved in numerous boards and community organizations, including but not limited to the Tourist Commission, Chamber of Commerce, and Kiwanis Club.

“Tourism is vital for our community to continue to grow and flourish. We want to encourage people to not only come to Harrodsburg, but to stay and enjoy.”

Board Member

John “Doc” Holiday is a seasoned leader with a distinguished background in public service, national security, and global enterprise. In addition to serving on the Harrodsburg-Mercer Co. Tourist Commission, John is a committed member of the Endowment Board, Chamber of Commerce, Reapportionment Committee, and Homeland Security Advisory Board for Mercer County. A former Director of Homeland Security for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, John brings decades of leadership across law enforcement and emergency response. He is also the sitting Chairman of the Republican Party of Mercer County and co-founder of a global enterprise specializing in maritime shipping, trade, energy and defense. A proud veteran and lifelong resident, John remains deeply committed to Mercer County’s safety, prosperity, and growth.

“Tourism is not just an industry in Mercer County – it’s the foundation of our history, economy, and future. As the birthplace of Kentucky, we hold a unique place in America’s story. Investing in tourism strengthens our businesses, enhances quality of life, and showcases why Mercer County is the shining gem of Kentucky.”

Board Member

A graduate of the University of Kentucky, Stacey now serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Harrodsburg and brings well over a decade of experience in local government. Before joining the City of Harrodsburg, she was the Council Administrator for Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. Stacey resides in Mercer County with her husband, James, and their son, Carter.

“Tourism is vital for Harrodsburg’s economic growth and cultural preservation, attracting visitors who support local businesses and help maintain our rich historical heritage”

Secretary

Kristen was raised in Harrodsburg and after college, left Kentucky to travel the world as a Flight Attendant while settling in Columbus, OH. Five years ago, she realized that home was back in Harrodsburg and moved back to live in the town that raised her. Kristen is currently the Vice President of Hospitality Services for Shaker Village of
Pleasant Hill where she oversees the Inn, Trustees’ Table Restaurant, and Events. She lives in Harrodsburg with her husband Chris and dog, Ronald.

“Harrodsburg is such a gem that has continued to grow as a destination for so many through it’s history and economy. The pride it’s residents have is something I am thrilled to enhance as a part of the tourism community.”

Board Member

A lifelong Harrodsburg resident, Anderson is a 1998 graduate of Mercer County High School and a 2002 graduate of Georgetown College, holding master’s degrees from both Georgetown and Eastern Kentucky University. He serves as the Director of Federal Programs and Instructional Technology Coach for the Mercer County School System and has over two decades of experience in education, coaching, and community leadership. Anderson is Treasurer of the Mercer County Fair & Horse Show Board, co-owner of Lemons Mill Brewery, and Head Boys Golf Coach at Mercer County High School. He lives in Harrodsburg with his wife, Natalie, and their two sons, Henry and Hudson.

“Tourism plays a big role in keeping Harrodsburg and Mercer County thriving. When visitors come here, they’re not just seeing our sights — they’re supporting local businesses, learning our history, and experiencing the sense of community we’re proud to share.”