Kenny Williams has been named Green River Area Development District’s new executive director, bringing more than 30 years of executive leadership and community-focused service to the seven-county region.
As executive director, Williams will focus on advancing GRADD’s mission of supporting local governments, strengthening communities, and improving quality of life across Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties.
“It is a true honor to assume the role of Executive Director of GRADD, following in the footsteps of remarkable leaders whose dedication and vision have shaped this magnificent organization of profound strength and service,” Williams said. “With deep respect for our past and enthusiasm for our future, I look forward to serving alongside an exceptional and talented team to further our impact, purpose, and support of the seven counties that are dedicated to changing lives for the better.”
Williams brings more than three decades of experience leading nonprofit and service-based organizations, with expertise in strategic planning, leadership development, regional collaboration, and partnership building. Most recently, he served as pediatric state director for Sevita Health/The MENTOR Network, overseeing statewide operations in Kentucky and Alabama. In that role, he led growth initiatives, implemented statewide strategic plans, managed key partnerships, and recruited and developed leadership teams.
Previously, Williams spent more than 26 years with Sunrise Children’s Services, including service as vice president of community-based services. There, he provided executive leadership across programs supporting children and families, oversaw statewide operations, managed multi-million-dollar grants, and worked closely with policymakers, boards, and community partners.
Williams also has experience teaching at the college level and serving in public service roles focused on strengthening families and community-based support systems.
“GRADD has been part of my personal and professional world for more than 35 years,” Williams said. “I am a better person because of the work of GRADD, and to be given this immense opportunity both humbles me and inspires me to fulfill the vision and passion of our seven counties and the elected officials who so diligently serve our citizens.”
Williams was chosen following a comprehensive search process led by the GRADD Executive Director Search Committee. He succeeds Joanna Shake, who has served in the role since 2020.
“He is from Owensboro and has been working in the social services field for many years,” said Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, who was also on the search committee. “Before coming to GRADD, he oversaw a staff larger than the one he will oversee here, and we believe he will be an excellent leader for this organization.”
GRADD Board of Directors Chairman and Hancock County Judge-Executive Johnny “Chic” Roberts echoed those sentiments.
“We are excited to welcome Kenny. His extensive knowledge of community-based services will be a valuable asset to GRADD and to the entire region,” Roberts said. “His career has centered on supporting, leading, and helping others, and we are confident that this dedication will continue in his work here at GRADD.”
