June 26, 2009

Bill Johnson Resigns as Director of ADECA

Governor Riley Appoints Doni Ingram to Serve as Agency’s New Director

MONTGOMERY - Governor Bob Riley today accepted the resignation of Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Bill Johnson, who is resigning to pursue other opportunities.

In May 2005, Johnson was appointed by Governor Riley to serve as ADECA director. He had previously been appointed by the Governor to serve as the agency’s assistant director in January 2003.

Governor Riley has appointed ADECA Assistant Director Doni M. Ingram to serve as the agency’s new director, as Johnson’s resignation is effective immediately.

“Bill Johnson has done a great job at ADECA and I am truly grateful to him for his outstanding service to the people of Alabama,” said Governor Riley. “Every community in our state feels the impact of ADECA, which is why I believe it is important to move forward quickly with the transition to new leadership at the agency. Doni Ingram has the experience and skills needed to continue ADECA’s progress and I’m pleased to appoint her to my Cabinet as ADECA director.”

"Working with communities across the state in achieving their vision and goals for healthier, safer and stronger places to live, work and rear families has been an absolute pleasure," said Johnson. "I’m thankful to Governor Riley for inviting me to be a part of his outstanding Cabinet and leadership team."

During his tenure at ADECA, Johnson also was instrumental in launching Governor Riley’s Black Belt Action Commission in 2004 and served as the commission’s executive director until 2006.

ADECA manages more than $200 million in federal grant dollars each year and has about 230 employees. The agency assists communities with economic development projects and administers a wide variety of federal and state programs that provide funding to local governments and non-profit agencies.