Martiza Meeks is returning to the H.L. Neblett Community Center, this time to the top position as the executive director of the long-standing program.
“It’s surreal in a way. I’m proud — of course, I’m nervous — but mostly, I’m excited. The Neblett has come a long way since I began as a board member. I’ve learned a lot, the Neblett has grown a lot, and I am really invested in that continuing,” Meeks said.
Meeks served on the Neblett Center Board of Directors for more than 5 years. She also served as site coordinator for the Western Academy at the Neblett from 2019-2021. In other work related to teaching area youth, Meeks also served as a substitute teacher for both Owensboro and Daviess County public schools for more than 5 years.
Meeks currently resides in Chicago but is returning to Owensboro before her first day on August 21. While in Chicago, Meeks continued to work in the nonprofit world and also maintained connections with the Neblett from afar. She even attended the grand opening of the new building for the Western Academy this April. Meeks said she was a part of the strategic planning for getting the school built.
In her new role as executive director, Meeks knows she will have a larger purview than she did at the Western Academy and as a board member, but it’s a change she welcomes.
“I’m excited. I’m happy to serve the board and have a new way of working for the board [because] now they’re my boss,” she said.
