Kentucky Center for Leadership announces new board members, first executive director

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — The Kentucky Center for Leadership has announced multiple milestones.

According to a release by the center for leadership on Thursday, these include four new board members, a manufacturing partnership and the appointment of its first executive director.

“We often use the metaphor of a ‘moonshot’ to describe our work. With plans to scale statewide and build a leadership movement that transforms Kentucky’s workforce and communities, these additions are the rocket fuel we need to launch the Kentucky Center for Leadership into its next era,” Greg Coker, president and chief experience officer said.

Headquartered at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus, KC4L is a nonprofit organization focusing on designing customized leadership experiences that accelerate growth for individuals, teams and organizations.

The four individuals joining the board include the following, according to the release:

• Lt. General (Ret.) Steven Basham, with decades of strategic leadership from the highest levels of military service.
• Dr. Gregg Farrell of Crossland Church, who brings an understanding of servant leadership and community development.
• Kahlil Garmon, entrepreneur and leadership developer, brings an innovative perspective on emerging leadership pipelines.
• Courtney Stevens, executive director of Warren County Public Library, offers expertise in organizational transformation and public engagement.

Making History: First Manufacturing Partner Joins the Movement

In addition, Kobelco Aluminum Automotive Products, LLC has become the center’s first manufacturing member, joining founding partners Houchens Industries and Graves Gilbert Clinic in a growing coalition.

“KAAP is thrilled to be the first manufacturing partner with the Kentucky Center for Leadership. This collaboration reflects our commitment to developing strong, effective leaders within our organization and community. We’re proud to help set the standard for growing talent right here in Kentucky,” said Michael Wright, plant manager, KAAP New Leadership.

John Gregory Named Executive Director

John Gregory has been the appointed as the organization’s first executive director, according to the release.

Gregory brings 20 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, the release states, including management roles spanning training and development, human resources, environmental health and safety and corporate social responsibility.

Gregory is also the founder of Edifier Training Solutions, LLC, a workforce development company.

According to the release, Gregory’s philosophy “aligns perfectly with KC4L’s mission: leadership is influence.”

“I am excited, humbled, and honored to accept this new role with the Kentucky Center for Leadership. With the support of KC4L’s incredible Board of Directors and valuable community partnerships, I am confident we can take KC4L to even greater heights while being the primary catalyst for leadership development in Kentucky,” Gregory said.