Bradfield Center executive director resigns

LIMA — The Bradfield Community Center is looking for a new executive director, after its leader for the past eight years turned in her resignation.

Kesha Drake turned her resignation in to the Bradfield Community Association’s board of trustees, effective Oct. 7.

“When I was first offered the position at Bradfield Community Center, I was shocked and had to take a moment to really think about what I was being offered,” Drake said. “I had memories of Bradfield growing up, so I went home that night and said, ‘God, if you’re not in this, close the door. If I can’t make an impact in this community. I don’t want the position!’”

She said it’s been a good period in her life.

“Here we are almost eight years later, and I’ve had the pleasure of serving the Lima community as the director of Bradfield Community Center,” she said. “Although this part of my journey has come to an end. I appreciate the people l have met and the community I’ve had the opportunity to touch. I fully believe in the mission, goals and values of Bradfield Community Center.”

In a press release, the trustees said they respected Drake’s decision and only wished her the best. The board will begin the search for a new executive director immediately.

“In the eight years that Ms. Drake has served as the executive director, she was a valuable member of the Bradfield leadership team,” according to the board’s press release. “Her contributions were essential to our success, and we thank her for her commitment and dedication throughout the years.”

A farewell reception will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6.

”This isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later,” Drake said. “I will remain in Lima and still have the heart to serve and support the people in this community.”

Dean Brown
Dean Brown joined The Lima News in 2022 as a reporter. Prior to The Lima News, Brown was an English teacher in Allen County for 38 years, with stops at Perry, Shawnee, Spencerville and Heir Force Community School. So they figured he could throw a few sentences together about education and business in the area. An award-winning photographer, Brown likes watching old black and white movies, his dog, his wife and kids, and the four grandkids - not necessarily in that order. Reach him at [email protected] or 567-242-0409.