MOUNT VERNON– Lori Jones-Perkins, executive director of New Directions, has been named executive director of the United Way of Knox County, effective July 31, 2023.
Jones-Perkins replaces Kelly Brenneman, who has served as executive director of the United Way of Knox County since 2015. She announced her May 31 retirement in January.
“United Way of Knox County is so appreciative of Kelly’s leadership over the last eight years. She orchestrated the move to our permanent location on East High Street, launched and developed Power of the Purse into one of the most popular and successful fundraisers in the county, navigated the organization through the pandemic, and cultivated strategic community partnerships,” Board Chair Bethany Celmar said. “We wish Kelly all the best in her retirement and know she will still be active in the Knox County community.”
The United Way of Knox County Board welcomes Jones-Perkins to the role of executive director after an extensive search.
“Lori brings a wealth of experience in the non-profit sector, both by serving in prominent roles of two United Way partner agencies as well as on community boards and committees. We know United Way of Knox County will be in great hands under the direction of Lori,” Celmar said.
Jones-Perkins has served as executive director of New Directions since March 2018, working to enhance and improve the work internal to the agency, participating in county-wide initiatives, and managing all aspects of grant funds.
Additionally, she implemented the first-ever capital campaign in the agency’s 40-year history. This included the purchase and restoration of a building which will allow the agency to expand services.
Prior to serving as executive director, Jones-Perkins worked as a prevention educator and assistant director of New Directions where she promoted and presented programming in the areas of healthy relationships, domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy. Preceding her time at New Directions, Jones-Perkins worked at Knox County Head Start for 16 years, spending her last eight years as the associate director.
“I am excited for this opportunity. As the next executive director of United Way, I will further my commitment to Knox County and the multiple programs that exist with the help of United Way funding. I know that I have been led to this new position and am forever grateful to the staff and board of New Directions for their tireless work with the agency and their support of me moving on,” Jones-Perkins said.
Jones-Perkins is a life-long resident of Knox County and Mount Vernon Nazarene University alum who has worked professionally in the community for more than 20 years. Her service to the community includes being a member of Women United, a board member for the Knox County Federally Qualified Health Center, and a member of both the Knox Health Planning Partnership and Family & Children First Council.
She is also a graduate of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Knox program and was nominated for the Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership award in 2019 and 2023.
Jones-Perkins enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling and reading. She also loves supporting local sports teams, specifically the MVNU men’s basketball team where her son is finishing his sophomore year. Go Cougars!
Now in its 72nd year, the United Way of Knox County is a cornerstone of community wellness and success. It strategically connects partners and resources to community needs in order to measurably impact the quality of lives of Knox County residents. Since 1951, local volunteers have been responsible for raising more than $20 million to impact the quality of life for Knox County residents.
Knox Community Hospital proudly supports the vibrant pulse of our community by sponsoring the Life & Culture section on Knox Pages, celebrating the stories and experiences that make our region unique.