LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Board of Directors for the Louisville Urban League announced Lyndon E. Pryor was unanimously selected as the permanent president and CEO of the organization, after a three-month nationwide search. Pryor has served as the interim president and CEO since March, following the five-month tenure and departure of the previous CEO, Dr. Kish Cumi Price.

“I couldn’t be more excited about the selection of Lyndon Pryor as our permanent CEO and President,” said John Borders, Jr., a long-time board member. “Mr. Pryor is innovative, forward-thinking, and insightful. But more than anything, he’s tirelessly passionate about serving a community devastated by the social and economic poverty caused by centuries of systemic racism. The city as a whole—and marginalized people in particular—will undoubtedly benefit in measurable ways as a result of his efforts and those of his incredible team at the League.” 

Pryor joined the Louisville Urban League in 2015, working on a community health program called “It Starts with Me!” He also served as the Chief Engagement Officer, spearheading special projects, overseeing communications, and working to serve the community’s needs.

When I started as CEO of the Louisville Urban League, Lyndon Pryor was the first person added to the team,” said Sadiqa Reynolds, former Louisville Urban League President and CEO. “Over time, his potential became obvious. Four years ago, when the National Urban League offered CEO training, I nominated him. His star shined even brighter. However, even armed with that certification, when I decided to leave, he did not apply for the job, choosing instead to make space for another Black woman. This was an example of his selfless leadership.”

In its 103rd year of operation, Pryor will lead the organization in what it says are its main areas of focus — jobs, justice, education, health, housing and Black business.

My commitment to growth and dedication to the liberation of Black people has led me into positions that have allowed me to make meaningful contributions to my community’s social, economic and political advancement,” Pryor said. “But no experience has been as personally fulfilling, professionally enriching, or tangibly impactful as my work here in Louisville.”

Pryor began serving in an interim capacity following the sudden firing of Price, the organization’s previous president and CEO. Price was fired by the Louisville Urban League on March 20, 2023. She sued the organization in May to get her job back, claiming she was fired for looking into multiple conflicts of interest and money mismanagement. Price said the Urban League’s board chair delivered a letter to Price on March 17, where she admitted the board did not have any justification for firing her.

The Louisville Urban Leauge will host an introductory welcome reception in January 2024.