The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) board has announced Brent Lackey has been appointed KCARD's new executive director, effective November 1. 

“The KCARD board is excited to have Brent serve as the next executive director for KCARD," said Eddie Melton, KCARD board president. "Brent brings over 15 years of experience doing cooperative and business development for KCARD that will allow him to provide the leadership and vision needed for the organization to continue meeting its mission for the state of Kentucky." 

As executive director, Lackey will continue KCARD's dedication to facilitating agricultural and rural business development in Kentucky. 

“It is truly an honor and very humbling to be hired as the new executive director of KCARD,” said Lackey.  “I strongly believe in its mission, and due to growing up on a farm in the rural community of Pembroke, KY, the clientele of KCARD holds a very special place in my heart.  KCARD has become an important part of Kentucky agriculture under the leadership of Aleta Botts and before her, Larry Snell.” 

Brent Lackey has worked for KCARD for over 16 years, most recently serving as a Senior Business Development Specialist.  Before working at KCARD, Brent served as the General Manager for the Kentucky Produce & Aquaculture Alliance and Cumberland Farm Products.  Brent graduated from Transylvania University with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, and he received a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky.  Brent has been married to his wife, Cindy, for 24 years, and they have two children, John and Hannah.   

“I truly believe KCARD’s best days are ahead, and I am excited and ready to go to work to lead KCARD into the future,” said Lackey. 

The Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development fosters business success and growth by developing and delivering technical assistance and by providing educational opportunities for agricultural and rural businesses seeking to enhance their economic opportunities. For more information, visit www.kcard.info and follow KCARD on Facebook.