Verná Cherry-Goatley

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Verná Cherry-Goatley serves as Executive Administrator with Louisville Metro Government-Louisville Forward -Department of Economic Development.  She engages and improves the Louisville business climate by creating relationships with others that create jobs, improves infrastructure, develop new amenities, and assist business start up and development projects.

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Verná has worked in the field of economic development for more than 30 years and has been very involved with program facilitation for numerous small business service providers. She also has been instrumental in assisting several area small businesses during their development and expansion.  Verná also has seventeen years of experience in the banking industry.

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She received an Associate in Arts degree from Jefferson Community College, a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from Bellarmine College and a Master of Arts in Human Resource Management from Webster University.

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Professionally Verná is very active on several boards and advisory committees locally and regionally.  A staunch believer of community service and the Chestnut Street YMCA Black Achievers Program, she uses her business capabilities to help enhance corporate image, coordinate and promote fund-raising events for non-profit organizations, and facilitate community outreach activities.  Her efforts have earned her recognition from academia, the private sector and numerous governmental entities.