The Greater Sacramento Urban League (GSUL) has named Ken Barnes as its permanent President and CEO, following his interim tenure and successful restructuring of the organization.
“I am an unapologetic lover of Sacramento,” Barnes said in a statement, “The marginalized communities we serve are representative of my family and childhood.”
The decision comes after Barnes replaced Dwayne Crenshaw last April, leading the historic nonprofit through 11 months of rigorous operational changes. Dr. Lisa Cardoza, American River College president and GSUL board chair, said Barnes stood out among many highly qualified candidates due to his deep knowledge of the Sacramento region.
“I know he has a vision for where we can take this organization and that he feels the community needs the Urban League,” Cardoza said. “I’m excited to see him take us to the next level. I know he can do it.”
For Barnes, the permanent role represents a homecoming. A product of South Sacramento’s Meadowview neighborhood, he previously served as a volunteer for the organization in his late 20s. He is now preparing to relocate from San Diego with his wife to lead the agency he says represents his own family and childhood.