Kenny Williams named executive director of GRADD
The Green River Area Development District Board of Directors has selected Kenny Williams as the organization’s new executive director.
“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.
Williams brings more than 30 years of experience leading nonprofit and service-based organizations, with a strong background in strategic planning, developing leaders, uniting those dedicated to serving their communities, and partnership development. Most recently, he served as Pediatric State Director for Sevita Health/The MENTOR Network, overseeing statewide operations in Kentucky and Alabama, according to a GRADD release. In that role, he provided leadership and developed strategies for maximizing growth, implemented statewide strategic plans, managed strong relationships with partners and advocates across the state, and recruited as well as developed talent who became key members of the company’s success.
Williams brings 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, according to the release
“GRADD has been a part of my personal and professional world for over 35 years and it has shaped everything I have done,” said Williams. “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 serves 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 January 19.
RiverValley Behavioral Health is designated a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic
RiverValley Behavioral Health has been designated as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic, a nationally recognized model designed to strengthen access to high-quality, comprehensive behavioral health services for individuals and families, according to a Tuesday RVBH release.
This designation reflects RVBH’s ongoing commitment to providing timely, integrated and person-centered mental health and substance use treatment, regardless of an individual’s ability to pay. As a CCBHC, RVBH will build upon its existing continuum of care by enhancing crisis services, outpatient mental health and substance use treatment, care coordination, and integration with physical health providers, said the release.
“Achieving CCBHC designation is a significant milestone for RiverValley Behavioral Health and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Wanda Figueroa, president and CEO of RVBH. “This model allows us to strengthen access to care, respond more effectively to community needs, and ensure individuals receive the right level of support when and where they need it. Most importantly, it enables us to invest more deeply in prevention, early intervention, and long-term recovery so individuals and families can build stability, improve health outcomes, and thrive.”
The CCBHC model will directly benefit the communities RVBH serves by improving access to coordinated behavioral health care for individuals of all ages while reducing barriers, including those related to cost and transportation. By focusing on whole-person care, RVBH will be better positioned to deliver consistent, high-quality services close to home. CCBHCs must meet rigorous federal standards related to access to care, quality reporting, staffing, governance, and coordination with hospitals, primary care providers, and social service agencies, said the release.
The model emphasizes evidence-based practices, accountability, and improved outcomes for those receiving care. Through this designation, RVBH will be able to:
- Expand access to same-day and crisis behavioral health services
- Improve coordination across mental health, substance use, and physical health care
- Strengthen services for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders
- Enhance care for children, adolescents, veterans, and underserved populations
