Senator Bledsoe Recognized for Accomplishments in Public Service

Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe, a member of the Fayette County Republican Women's Club, Kentucky Federation, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Elected Women of Excellence Award by the National Foundation for Women Legislators (NFWL).

According to the NFWL, the Elected Women of Excellence Award recognizes women who have worked tirelessly to serve their communities while breaking barriers and overcoming obstacles in public service. Established in 2013 as part of the organization’s 75th anniversary celebration, the award honors women leaders from across the country for their dedication and accomplishments.

Bledsoe said she is grateful for the recognition and proud to be included among women who continue to lead with purpose.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition alongside so many accomplished women leaders from across the country,” Bledsoe said. “Women in public service work hard every day to strengthen their communities and improve people’s lives. I’m appreciative of the women who continue to lead in their communities and inspire future generations to serve. I hope young women across Kentucky will see what these leaders are accomplishing and feel encouraged to step forward and serve.”

During her time in the Kentucky Senate, Bledsoe has focused on issues related to local government, fiscally responsible budgeting, economic growth, workforce development, education and strengthening Kentucky communities. She has emerged as a leading voice on artificial intelligence policy in the commonwealth, serving as co-chair of the legislative task force on artificial intelligence and sponsoring Senate Bill 4 during the 2025 Legislative Session.

Bledsoe also has played a key role in crafting the state budget as vice chair of the Senate Appropriations and Revenue Committee. In addition, she serves as vice chair of the Senate Families and Children Committee.

Before joining the state legislature, Bledsoe served on the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council and worked as public policy manager for the Council of State Governments, which Lexington will host later this year for the organization’s annual conference.

Bledsoe earned bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and classical studies from Hillsdale College and a master’s degree in international affairs and national security policy from the University of Kentucky Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce.

The NFWL is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that supports elected women at the local, state and federal levels through policy education, networking and leadership development opportunities. Founded in 1938, the organization serves elected women across the country at the city, county and state levels.