PIKEVILLE, Ky. (WMDJ) — Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) has announced a new director. Retired Pike County Schools superintendent Dr. Reed Adkins has been selected to lead the organization, becoming its third executive director.

SOAR, founded in 2013 as a response to the region’s economic decline following the downturn of the coal industry, focuses on long-term growth and population retention across Eastern Kentucky. Adkins said he sees the role as an opportunity to help strengthen economic development efforts throughout the region.

Adkins had recently filed to run for Pike County judge-executive but has now withdrawn from the race. 

The leadership change comes as outgoing director Colby Hall steps down after five years to take a new position with Craft Philanthropy. Adkins said he intends to continue SOAR’s mission while expanding its reach, noting that the organization serves all 54 counties in the region.