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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - The Muhammad Ali Center board of directors announced DeVone Holt will serve as the new President and CEO. Holt has spent the last five years as the Chief External Affairs Officer at Goodwill Industries of Kentucky.

“DeVone emerged as someone with the passion and expertise to guide the Center into its next chapter,” said Ali Center Co-Founder and Lifetime Member Lonnie Ali. “I’m confident he’ll put his talents and dedication toward our success and longevity.”

As a Louisville native and Eastern Kentucky graduate, Holt brings nearly 30 years of experience in public relations, brand management, government affairs, strategic communications and fundraising to the Muhammad Ali Center, the release said.

Prior to his role at Goodwill, Holt was the National Director of Customer Engagement for ResCare Workforce Services and Special Assistant to the Superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools. In those roles, he functioned as the lead external affairs officer for both organizations, the release said.

“I grew up in the same community where Muhammad Ali was raised and have a high regard for the six guiding principles that he used to establish his center,” said Holt. “Being entrusted to manage the legacy of my personal hero while simultaneously helping other people pursue greatness is one of the highest honors I could receive. This is my dream job.”

Holt is the first Louisvillian to be named President and CEO of the Ali Center.

“Just as Muhammad said, ‘Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth,’ DeVone understands the Ali Center’s role in service to the Louisville community, to the world and to furthering Muhammad’s legacy as a champion of peace and justice for all people “said Nicole Yates, Molina Healthcare AVP and leader of the Muhammad Ali Center selection committee. “I was proud to serve as chair of the transition team that recommended this outstanding leader whose vision, passion and dedication will lead the Ali Center forward and upward.”