YPAL announces Executive Director search

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Feb. 1, 2026) — The Young Professionals Association of Louisville (YPAL) has launched a search for a new executive director.

Current executive director Grace Huneck is stepping away from her role this spring as she prepares to welcome her first child. Huneck plans to conclude her tenure in mid-April, with timing dependent on the onboarding of YPAL’s next Executive Director. 

During her year and a half tenure, Huneck played a key role in strengthening the organization’s mission and expanding its reach. She helped establish greater organizational stability, secured new sponsorships, transitioned from a 501(c)(6) to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and built collaborative relationships with other nonprofits across Louisville.

“Serving as the Executive Director of YPAL has been an incredibly meaningful chapter of my career,” Huneck said. “I am deeply proud of what we’ve built together and grateful for the board, members, sponsors and community partners who make this organization so special. As I prepare for this new chapter of parenthood, I do so knowing YPAL is well-positioned for continued growth and impact. I plan to spend the summer focused on my new role as a mom, and in the fall will begin exploring my next professional chapter.”

YPAL will continue its mission to create a vibrant, welcoming young professional community in Greater Louisville by connecting, engaging and developing members. The organization has more than 1,250 members and alumni and plays a key role in talent attraction and retention, inclusive community building and convening young professionals throughout the region.

“Grace has been a thoughtful, steady, and mission-driven leader for YPAL,” YPAL President Sam Draut said. “Her work strengthened our organization and expanded opportunities for young professionals across Louisville. While we are sad to see her go, we are incredibly thankful for her leadership and fully support her decision to focus on her growing family. The care and dedication she gave to YPAL will allow the organization to enhance its impact in this community.” 

YPAL plans to have a new executive director in place as Huneck concludes her tenure in mid-April to allow for a transition period.

“I care deeply about YPAL’s stability and continued momentum, and I remain fully committed to supporting a thoughtful and responsible transition,” Huneck said. “I’ll be staying on through mid-April, continuing to work as usual and assisting with the search for a strong next Executive Director to lead the organization forward alongside its dedicated board.”

The executive director is responsible for leading fundraising strategy and execution in support of YPAL’s mission and goals, in partnership with the president and board of directors.

The position will offer a salary of $55,000 to $70,000, commensurate with experience. YPAL also offers parental leave, health care stipend, professional development funds and a flexible work schedule. The executive director application is now available at ypal.org. To apply for the position, click here. 

For more information, contact Sam Draut at president@ypal.org.