Cardinal Kroger Celebrates a Remarkable 30 Years!
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Maddie Gumm
On Thursday, September 10, 2026, Taylor County Schools celebrated an incredible milestone as Cardinal Kroger at Taylor County High School marked its 30th anniversary.
For three decades, this unique partnership between Taylor County High School and Kroger has provided students with authentic, hands-on business experience while developing leadership, customer service, and workforce-ready skills. What began 30 years ago has impacted hundreds of students, created countless career opportunities, and has become a model for business education across Kentucky.
The event began with a look back at the history and impact of Cardinal Kroger, celebrating what the student-based enterprise has meant to Taylor County High School and the Kroger family for over the past 30 years. Guests heard remarks from Jessica Sharp, Head of Communications and Public Affairs with the Kroger Louisville Division; Josh Harpole, Kroger Louisville Division President; Robert Braden, Superintendent of Taylor County Schools; and Marcus Rodgers, Cardinal Kroger Business Teacher.
While the celebration honored the program’s remarkable history, it also focused on the future and the opportunities that lie ahead for the next generation of student leaders. Taylor County High School seniors Loren Nolley, Cardinal Kroger Marketing Director, and Claire Melton, Cardinal Kroger Store Manager, introduced this year’s staff and reflected on the pride they feel in being part of a program with such a lasting legacy. “Our staff is grateful to be a part of a program with such a rich history,” Claire shared. “We are excited to carry on the legacy. Our promise to you is that we will make the most of our time as staff members and do our best to leave our own positive impact on the program.”
Cardinal Kroger staff members for the 2026-2027 school year are Claire Melton (store manager), Kenzie England (assistant manager), John Zottman (accountant), Loren Nolley (marketing director), Sophie Hayes (social media director), Holden Sprowles (head of stock), Greta Bradstreet (assistant manager - 6th period), Tray Parish (marketing assistant - 6th period), Reid Dabney (head of stock - 6th period), and cashiers and stock crew members Sarah Blakeman, Nell Coyle, Miya Downs, Griffin Hansford, Will Kildow, Zoe Matthews, Ace Osmun, Kaysen Thompson, Luke Adkins, Brody Hines, Thomas Hord, Aden Rodriguez, Reece Spalding, and Bryce Vernon.
As Cardinal Kroger enters its fourth decade, the program continues to provide students with meaningful real-world learning experiences while setting the standard for business education throughout Kentucky. The legacy built over the past 30 years remains strong, and the future is brighter than ever.
Expect greatness from our student-based enterprises!
