Bowling Green, KY, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Bill Oldham has announced his retirement as Executive Director of Community Education, effective July 31. His tenure, which began in November 2019, included the launch of significant initiatives such as the Safe Seats | Safe Kids program and the Little Purples Academy. Joshua Smith, the current assistant director with nearly 20 years of experience in Community Education, will serve as interim executive director while the search for a permanent successor begins. The organization aims to continue its commitment to community education and support.
BOWLING GREEN, KY – Bill Oldham has announced his retirement as the Executive Director of Community Education, effective July 31. The announcement was made by Ryan Dearbone, chair of the Community Education board. Oldham’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the organization, as he has been instrumental in its development since he took on the role in November 2019.
Following Oldham’s retirement, Joshua Smith, currently the assistant director, will step in as the interim executive director while the search for a permanent successor begins. Smith brings nearly 20 years of experience with Community Education and has held multiple leadership positions within the organization.
Bill Oldham has a long-standing relationship with Community Education, having served on its board of directors and advisory council prior to his directorship. His commitment to the organization is reflected in his personal ties; his daughters participated in the after-school program at McNeill Elementary School.
Under Oldham’s leadership, Community Education faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic but managed to continue serving the community effectively. Notable achievements during his tenure include:
- Launching the Safe Seats | Safe Kids program: This initiative established Community Education as a certified child passenger safety inspection station, a notable accomplishment that enhances community safety for families.
- Establishing the Little Purples Academy: In collaboration with the Bowling Green Independent School District, this program aims to provide critical educational support to children and families.
Oldham is a native of Indiana and earned a degree in broadcast communication from Western Kentucky University. He previously held significant roles in various organizations including WBKO, Commonwealth Health Corporation, and Twin Lakes Regional Medical Center. Outside of his professional life, Oldham enjoys spending time with family and has a passion for crafting items such as upcycled bourbon bottle lamps. He is also actively involved in community service, volunteering with the Bowling Green-Warren County NAACP and serving as Board Chair for Saturday Meals.
In his upcoming role, Joshua Smith is well-equipped to lead Community Education as an interim executive director. A graduate of Western Kentucky University with an accounting degree, Smith also holds a master’s degree in pastoral counseling from Asbury Theological Seminary. Since joining the Community Education team in 2007, he has led several key community programs, including Stand for Children Day and the Teen Angel Christmas Assistance Program.
With his extensive background and experience, Smith expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the interim role and emphasized the deep history of Community Education in Bowling Green. The board will now begin the process of identifying a permanent replacement for Oldham to continue the organization’s commitment to educational and community initiatives.
Key Achievements of Bill Oldham
- Led Community Education since November 2019
- Successfully launched the Safe Seats | Safe Kids program
- Established Little Purples Academy with local school district
Transition Leadership
- Species Mentioned: Joshua Smith, Assistant Director
- Years of Experience: Nearly 20 years at Community Education
- Education: Accounting degree from WKU; Master’s in Pastoral Counseling
FAQ
What prompted Bill Oldham’s retirement?
Bill Oldham announced his retirement, effective July 31, after leading Community Education since November 2019.
Who will be the interim executive director?
Joshua Smith, the current assistant director, will serve as the interim executive director during the search for a new director.
What are some key initiatives Bill Oldham accomplished?
He launched the Safe Seats | Safe Kids program and established the Little Purples Academy in collaboration with the local school district.
What is Joshua Smith’s background experience?
Smith has nearly two decades of experience at Community Education, and has held various leadership roles including volunteer and outreach coordinator since joining the team in 2007.
Overview of Bill Oldham’s Achievements
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Safe Seats | Safe Kids Program | Established Community Education as a certified child passenger safety inspection station. |
| Little Purples Academy | Collaborated with Bowling Green Independent School District to provide educational support. |
| COVID-19 Response | Maintained progress during unprecedented challenges in the pandemic. |
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: Community Education Announces Retirement of Executive Director Bill Oldham
- Kentucky Today: Community Learning Network Training Program Kicks Off
- BG Daily News: Stand for Children Day
- Toledo Blade: Seniors Find Continuing Education Affordable Nearby
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Education
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