Two long-time Northern Kentucky leaders -- Jack Moreland and Dennis Keene – are stepping into top leadership positions at Southbank Partners.
Mooreland will become president and Keene will serve as economic development adviser for the organization that works to plan and fostering economic development and job creation in Covington, Newport, Bellevue, Dayton, Ludlow and Fort Thomas.
"These two experienced, successful and proven leaders will build on the foundation that Southbank has established in the river communities," Wally Pagan, the organization's interim president, said in a release issued by the organization.
Moreland, a former superintendent of Covington and Dayton school districts, and Keene, a business operator and state lawmaker, will work closely with river city leaders and elected officials, as well as Southbank’s extensive volunteer network, in preparing for the inevitable return of a strong economy.
Moreland, who has served as the interim president of Northern Kentucky University and as a top state education official in addition to leading two of Northern Kentucky school districts, said he is eager to engage city leaders to help chart Southbank's next chapter.
"I want to continue what Wally Pagan started and help these communities flourish," Moreland said in the release. "We will work aggressively to help create jobs and economic development opportunities.”
Keene has served in the Kentucky General Assembly since 2004. His 67th House District includes three Southbank partner cities - Newport, Dayton and Bellevue - in addition to Wilder, Southgate, Woodlawn and a portion of Highland Heights.
Keene stressed he will continue to represent his constituents and the region in the legislature while serving as an economic development adviser to Southbank.
"I represent the people," Keene said. "Southbank can and should partner with the people to keep the riverfront strong."
