Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky (PCAK) on Wednesday announced the retirement of Executive Director Jill Seyfred, following 38 years in the role and 42 years of dedicated leadership and service to the organization and families across the Commonwealth.
Since joining PCAK in 1984, Seyfred has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission to prevent child abuse and neglect through advocacy, education, and community support. She became Executive Director in 1988 and, under her leadership, PCAK significantly expanded its statewide reach, strengthened partnerships, and launched key initiatives including Upstream Academy and 120 in 120. Her work also helped advance critical legislation and elevate prevention as a priority across Kentucky.
“Jill’s leadership and commitment to Kentucky families have left an impact not only on PCAK, but on the Kentucky communities we serve,” said Zack Morris, president of PCAK Board of Directors. “For nearly four decades, her passion for prevention and advocacy helped shape PCAK into a leading force for change in Kentucky, and her legacy will continue to influence our work and make a difference in children’s lives.”
Throughout her tenure, Seyfred was recognized for her dedication to child welfare and her ability to bring together community leaders, advocates, and partners to support children and families across the state. Her work helped advance conversations around prevention, strengthen community engagement, and expand awareness of the importance of supporting healthy families and how to do so effectively.
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky and walk alongside so many passionate advocates, partners, and families for so many years,” said Seyfred. “The relationships I have built are one of the greatest gifts of my career, and I am so proud of the remarkable difference we have made together for children and families across Kentucky.
“I leave my role with a full heart and grateful for this journey,” Seyfred continued. “I have complete confidence that PCAK’s mission will continue to protect, strengthen, and uplift children and families across Kentucky for years to come.”
As PCAK prepares for this next chapter, the organization has begun the search for its next executive director. Building on the foundation Seyfred led in creating over four decades, PCAK looks forward to welcoming a leader who will carry forward its mission of child abuse prevention across Kentucky. While Seyfred’s retirement marks the close of an extraordinary era, her impact and vision will remain central to the organization’s work moving forward.
Learn more about Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky and become an advocate for Kentucky’s children at pcaky.org.
Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky