KHS has a new leader

Scott Alvey is the new executive director of the Kentucky Historical Society. The Kentucky Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet and the Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) announced July 20 the appointment of Scott Alvey as KHS’s new executive director. Alvey had been acting executive director since June 1. KHS is both a public agency within the Cabinet and a membership organization overseen by a governing board. Constance Alexander serves as president and led the transition team in its search for KHS’s new leader after the departure of Kent Whitworth earlier this year to join the Minnesota Historical Society as director and CEO.

“Naming Scott Alvey as executive director of KHS is a unanimous and enthusiastic decision of the transition team and the Governing Board,” Alexander said. “Scott's range of skills and depth of expertise enabled us to make a timely and confident decision. He understands the workings of the organization and its professional commitments, as well as its responsibilities to the commonwealth. KHS has a consistent record of achieving its mission and exceeding its goals in times of challenge and change, and we look forward to continued success with Scott at the lead and a dedicated staff working side-by-side with him.” “Scott is experienced, understands the importance of historical education, and has demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving the rich traditions of the Commonwealth,” said Don Parkinson, Secretary of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet.

Alvey came to KHS in 2008 after 10 years with the Louisville Science Center. A native of Evansville, Indiana, and a graduate of Western Kentucky University, he spent much of his time at KHS as deputy director, responsible for helping develop and successfully implementing long-range organizational goals for the organization. In his new role, Alvey assumes overall responsibility for management of KHS, working closely with the Cabinet, the society’s boards and leadership staff to fulfill its mission of educating and engaging the public through Kentucky history in order to confront the challenges of the future. “I’m humbled at the opportunity to lead such a dynamic organization.”

Alvey said. “Each day we see individuals and communities embrace their Kentucky history and, what is possibly more exciting, see them share it with others. We get to witness that moment when the realization hits that we are all part of a larger community, a larger shared history, and are empowered to see differing viewpoints, challenge long-held assumptions and ultimately celebrate our shared achievements. “It is an honor to work with a team of people whose passion for Kentucky history is unmatched.”