New director sought for initiative to improve Appalachia

PIKEVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Officials say a nonprofit organization that aims to improve the future of eastern Kentucky is seeking a new executive director. The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce said in a statement that Shaping Our Appalachian Region Inc. is launching a statewide search for its next leader. The chamber has partnered with the organization to conduct the search. Officials say Director Jared Arnett announced his intention to step down to be more involved in a business he co-founded before taking the position. He will remain until his successor is named. Shaping Our Appalachian Region launched in 2013 to diversify eastern Kentucky’s economy.