Market House Theatre Board of Directors President, Rotary Club of Paducah Member, Murray State Alumni Association Lifetime Member, Paducah Young Professionals Member, Leadership Paducah Class #32 Clint F. Combs believes that professional success is best measured not only by career milestones but also by the impact one makes beyond the office. In 2022, he embraced that philosophy when he joined the American Cancer Society’s Dancing With Our Stars event in Paducah. The challenge was daunting—raise $20,000 and perform a choreographed dance before a live audience. Initially hesitant, Clint worried about meeting the fundraising goal and stepping far outside his comfort zone. Yet, through determination and community support, he raised over $17,000 and delivered a memorable performance. The experience reinforced his belief in committing fully to meaningful causes, even when the outcome is uncertain. In his professional life, Clint thrives in the complex world of insurance. He understands that success in the industry requires both strong sales skills and deep technical knowledge. Serving primarily governmental agencies, he has recently expanded into working with nonprofit organizations, embracing the learning curve that comes with this broader focus. His approach sets him apart—rather than chasing quick sales, he prioritizes long-term relationships, aiming to be a trusted advisor much like a CPA or attorney, providing value well beyond a policy’s terms. Clint’s dedication to service is rooted in his upbringing. During his college years, he was actively involved in student government and served as SGA President. Throughout, his family offered unwavering support—especially his grandmother, whose encouragement left a lasting mark. Watching her and his grandfather serve their community through local government, the chamber of commerce, and tourism instilled in him a strong sense of civic responsibility. Her example continues to inspire his commitment to both career and community. That dedication is also shaped by his professional mentor, Roy Riley, whose philosophy is to “leave things better than you found them.” Clint carries that same mindset, striving to improve every space, relationship, and organization he touches. One lesson he shares often is that “comparison is the thief of joy.” For Clint, every career is its own journey, and success comes from focusing on doing right by one’s clients, colleagues, and community. By staying grounded in that belief, he works each day to build a legacy defined by integrity, service, and meaningful impact. Clinton F. Combs Public Entity Director, HUB International Leadership Paducah Class #36, Paducah Young Professionals Co-Chair, Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Ex Officio Board Director, BNI Impact Chapter Financial Advisor Seat Since beginning her career at Edward Jones in 2019, Ellie Short has steadily built a path defined by ambition, adaptability, and service. What began as a part-time role as a Branch Office Administrator has grown into her current position as a Financial Advisor and a member of the Performance Leadership Team for her region. Beyond her work with the firm, she also serves as co-chair of the Paducah Young Professionals, where she fosters connection and growth among emerging leaders. Ellie’s journey was not without challenges. While completing her master’s degree at Murray State University, she set her sights on becoming a Financial Advisor. However, her plans were interrupted when the COVID-19 pandemic froze hiring across the firm. Rather than stepping away, she embraced the opportunity to learn. Remaining in her role, she worked alongside various advisors, supporting clients through a period of uncertainty. In 2020, Ellie met Heath Bowling, whose mentorship would prove pivotal. Joining his branch the following year, she studied for and passed her securities licenses, serving as a licensed associate before officially stepping into the role of Financial Advisor in 2022. These years provided hands-on experience and insight that no textbook could match, shaping her into the advisor she is today. Starting her advisory career at a young age gives Ellie a unique advantage: the ability to guide her clients through every stage of life and into the next generation. Her focus is on building lasting relationships rooted in trust, offering steady guidance that clients can count on for decades. Ellie credits much of her professional growth to Heath’s example of integrity and leadership—always putting clients first, doing the right thing, and helping those around him. His influence has shaped not just her approach to advising but her approach to life. Looking ahead, Ellie hopes to leave a legacy defined by trust, impact, and inspiration. As a female advisor in a field where women make up just 23% of the workforce, she is committed to encouraging more women to pursue careers in financial advising. Her advice to other young professionals is simple but powerful: embrace challenges, nurture strong relationships, stay humble, and never stop learning—because growth is a lifelong pursuit. Ellie Short Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Sponsored by 40 Under Forty INTHEVUE.COM | SEPTEMBER 2025 11
