Her Story
About DeLanna
DeLanna Williams, MPA, is the Executive Director of Community Education, Bowling Green-Warren County, where she leads initiatives focused on lifelong learning, community engagement, and programs that strengthen families and improve quality of life. In her role, she collaborates with educators, community partners, businesses, and local leaders to expand opportunities for individuals across the Bowling Green community. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Before becoming Executive Director, DeLanna built a diverse career in public service, education, and community programming. She served as Program Manager for State Traffic School with Kentucky Safe Driver, managing daily operations, communications, partnerships, and outreach efforts. Earlier, she worked with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the Commonwealth of Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, where she supported statewide programs and helped vulnerable individuals access public assistance resources. She also spent nearly five years as a full-time parent before returning to the workforce and transitioning into nonprofit leadership. DeLanna holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master of Public Administration from Murray State University. Her approach to leadership is grounded in integrity, intentionality, empathy, and encouragement, drawing in part from her background in cheerleading to motivate and celebrate others. She is passionate about building meaningful partnerships, developing people, and creating programs that make a lasting difference in the community. Through her leadership and service, DeLanna continues to champion education, family support, safety, and opportunities that help individuals and communities thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with DeLanna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my husband’s unwavering support and the confidence he gave me to return to work. I also use negativity as motivation to push myself and prove the doubters wrong.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
I’ve learned by observing great leaders how I want to be recognized—as a leader who inspires trust, leads by example, and makes a meaningful impact.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be confident in yourself and your abilities. Be assertive, make your presence known, and don’t let negativity or critics hold you back. Prove through your actions that you are capable, deserving, and worthy of having a seat at the table.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve experienced is the sense of leadership isolation that can come with stepping into a new Executive Director role. At the same time, I’m fortunate to be supported by an experienced and knowledgeable team and Board of Directors at Community Education, which provides valuable collaboration and perspective as I navigate the role.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and intentionality are at the heart of how I lead and live. I strive to make people feel loved, valued, and cared for, while using the encouragement and positivity I developed through my background in cheerleading to inspire others and help them succeed.
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