Office of Research and Creative Activity at MSU Advisory Board Member, Exercise Science Program at MSU Advisory Board Member, School of Nursing and Health Professions Faculty Senator, Kentucky Occupational Therapy Association Member, American Occupational Therapy Association, Brain Injury Association of America, Sigma Xi Scientific Research Honor Society Member, Translational Research Consultant Kelly L. Taylor has established herself as a leader in occupational therapy, blending clinical expertise, research, and education. She began her journey graduating first in her class from a top-ranked Occupational Therapy program, gaining both broad training and specialized skills that would guide her career. Kelly honed her abilities at rehabilitation hospitals in St. Louis and later at the renowned Shepherd Center in Atlanta, a neurorehabilitation specialty hospital, where she earned the Bronze Star of Excellence for Patient Care and became a Certified Brain Injury Specialist. In 2021, Kelly transitioned from clinical practice to academia at the Paducah Regional Campus of Murray State University—a move that proved both challenging and rewarding. She credits her network of experienced educators for providing guidance, resources, and encouragement that helped her grow into a successful graduate-school instructor. Kelly’s accomplishments in academia are numerous. She has earned the 2023 Emerging STEM Scholar Award, 2023 Outstanding Collegiate Researcher for the School of Nursing and Health Professions, 2025 University Distinguished Mentor Award, and the 2025 Board of Regents Award for Teaching Excellence. She has authored scholarly articles, contributed a textbook chapter, and delivered presentations regionally and nationally. A key influence in her career has been Dr. Kerri Morgan, Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy and Neurology at Washington University, whose mentorship over the past decade has shaped Kelly as a clinician, researcher, and educator. Dr. Morgan’s guidance opened doors for Kelly to expand her clinical expertise, engage in research, and serve in adaptive sports and Para athletics. Kelly hopes to inspire the next generation of occupational therapy students with a love of learning and commitment to service. She is also dedicated to advocating for underrepresented populations, especially individuals with disabilities, aiming to make a lasting impact in her community. Her advice to aspiring professionals is simple: never stop listening, learning, networking, and serving—principles that have guided her career and continue to shape her influence in both clinical and academic spheres. Kelly L. Taylor Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy & Academic Fieldwork Coordi- nator, Murray State University, Paducah Regional Campus Home Builders Association of Western Kentucky President, BNI Profit Racers Vice President Lee Sell is the driving force behind The Crawlspace Ace, a business he built from the ground up. When he launched the company in 2018, it was just him handling sales, marketing, production, and every other task. In its first year, the company generated $172,000 in revenue. Today, The Crawlspace Ace is a multimillion-dollar enterprise with more than 20 employees. Under Lee’s leadership, the company offers a supportive work environment complete with matching 401(k) plans, cruise giveaways, and other incentives. The company has also earned the Paducah Readers Choice Award for Best Foundation Repair Company four years in a row. In 2024, Lee expanded his entrepreneurial reach by co-founding Liberty Pest Control. The company has quickly become one of the fastest-growing pest control businesses in the nation and has won the Paducah Readers Choice Award for Best Pest Control Company for two consecutive years. One of Lee’s greatest challenges has been transitioning from “coworker” to “boss.” Having built strong relationships with employees while working in the field, he quickly realized that growth created distance. To address this, he makes a conscious effort to connect with his team personally, ensuring they feel supported and valued. “We’re all here to help each other grow, personally and professionally,” he says. Lee emphasizes the importance of customer experience, blending high-quality service with clear communication and genuine care. This approach has helped build lasting trust and loyalty among clients. As a veteran, Lee is deeply inspired by fellow entrepreneurs who have built businesses from the ground up. Early in his journey, he benefited from the advice of seasoned business owners and now enjoys mentoring others, helping them navigate their own challenges and grow their businesses. Lee hopes his legacy reflects service, leadership, and impact. By employing veterans and mentoring young tradespeople, he aims to strengthen both his team and the community. Whether it’s ensuring families feel safe in their homes or setting industry standards, Lee strives to lead by example. His advice to aspiring business owners is simple: don’t be afraid to ask for help. “Though my business is my own, I couldn’t have reached this point without the guidance of others willing to share their time and knowledge,” he says. For Lee, collaboration and learning from the community have been essential to his success. Lee Sell Owner/Founder, The Crawlspace Ace & Liberty Pest Control Sponsored by 40 Under Forty INTHEVUE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2025 21
