Williams named GRADD executive director

OWENSBORO, Ky. (Feb. 3, 2026) — The Green River Area Development District (GRADD) Board of Directors has selected Kenny Williams as the organization’s new executive director, director, bringing more than three decades of executive leadership and community-focused service to the seven-county region.

Kenny Williams

“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. “I am truly inspired by what has been built and extraordinarily optimistic about what lies ahead. 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 was chosen following a comprehensive search process led by the GRADD Executive Director Search Committee. He succeeds Joanna Shake, who has served as executive director since 2020.

“He is from Owensboro and has been working in the social services field for many years,” Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen, who was also on the search committee, said. “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 Castlen’s comments on Williams’ fit with the organization.

“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.”

Williams brings more than 30 years of experience leading nonprofit and service-based organizations, with a strong background 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 provided leadership and developed strategies for growth, implemented statewide strategic plans, managed strong relationships with partners and advocates, and recruited and developed key members of the company’s leadership team.

“Kenny comes to GRADD with decades of experience as a leader and manager, and his deep understanding of public service, regional collaboration and community-focused work will be a tremendous asset to our district,” Shake said. “I truly believe his leadership will help strengthen GRADD’s impact across our region and position us well for continued growth and success in the years ahead.”

Previously, Williams spent more than 26 years with Sunrise Children’s Services, including serving as vice president of community-based services. There, he provided executive leadership across a wide range of programs supporting children and families, oversaw statewide operations, managed multimillion-dollar grants, and worked closely with policymakers, boards and community partners to expand services and improve outcomes.

Williams has deep ties to the communities served by GRADD and a strong understanding of regional collaboration. His experience also includes teaching at the college level and serving in public service roles focused on strengthening families and community-based support systems.

“GRADD has been a part of my personal and professional world for more than 35 years, and it has shaped everything I have done,” 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.”

As executive director, Williams’ leadership will focus on advancing GRADD’s mission of strengthening communities, supporting local governments and improving quality of life across Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union and Webster counties.

Williams holds a Master of Education in mental health counseling and a Master of Education in marriage and family therapy from Western Kentucky University, as well as a Bachelor of Education from Kentucky Wesleyan College.

Williams’ first day at GRADD was Jan. 19.