LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 11, 2024)—Wesley House Community Services, Inc. (WHCS) has appointed Mendell Grinter as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 10, 2024. Grinter’s appointment follows a five-month search after the departure of its previous CEO for a role with Louisville Metro Government. With over 12 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector and K-12 education policy and advocacy, Grinter is well-suited to lead WHCS into its next phase of growth and sustainability.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mendell as our next President & CEO. We believe his leadership will be instrumental in driving our mission forward,” said Wesley House Board Chair Brenda Hyatt.
Throughout his career, Grinter has shown unwavering commitment to education and community development, earning national recognition. In 2017, Forbes included him in its prestigious 30 Under 30 list for significant educational contributions. He was one of only three Louisvillians to receive this honor, alongside Bryson Tiller (2017) and Jack Harlow (2022). In addition to his professional achievements, Grinter serves on the board of directors for the Country Music Association (CMA) Foundation, where he recently completed a term as Chairman. Leveraging his experience and passion for educational equity, he supports the foundation’s national arts and music education grantmaking. Grinter also played a key role in developing the CMA’s industry-wide diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy, ensuring country music is inclusive and welcoming to all.
Grinter holds a Master of Public Administration from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Kentucky. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education Leadership and Innovation at New York University. A proud graduate of Seneca High School, Grinter’s return to Louisville marks a significant homecoming.
“We are confident that Mendell’s vision and dedication will help Wesley House continue to thrive and expand its impact in the community,” said Jason Chodyniecki, Welsey House Board Vice Chair.
About Wesley House Community Services, Inc.
For more than 120 years, WHCS has committed to fostering a stronger and more inclusive community by providing essential resources and support to individuals and families in need. A true cradle-to-career community center, WHCS offers programs such as the Weskids Child Development Center, Young Bright Achievers after-school and out-of-school programs, WesTech workforce development, and economic empowerment programs. Learn more about WHCS and its work at WesleyHouseKY.com.