Ann Brown Perkins is a dynamic professional with a rich history of accomplishments and contributions in various sectors. Her career journey spans leadership roles, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to community service.
Starting in 1976, Ann was the Director for Wilderness Road Girl Scout Council. She was responsible for organizing Girl Scout troops across seven counties, overseeing training, recruitment of volunteers, organizing area programs, and managing cookie sales.
Between 1986 and 1996, Ann had the privilege of serving as the Executive Director of the TWCA of Ashland. During this time, she created impactful programs, such as the first Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program for schools in Eastern Kentucky, and established five preschool and after-school programs in the region. She also initiated the “Tribute to Women” program, celebrating and recognizing women’s leadership in the community and the businesses that supported their development.
From 1996 to 1998, Ann was the Account Executive of Acordia of Kentucky. Ann played a pivotal role in developing business accounts for health, life, and property insurance in eastern Kentucky.
Since 1998, Ann has proudly served as the Executive Director of Safe Harbor of Northeast KY, a role that has allowed her to play a crucial part in transforming an old TB Hospital property into a safe haven for those in need. Over the years, she has spearheaded capital renovations exceeding $6.5 million, including the remarkable transformation of the former TB hospital into 34 apartments. Under Anns leadership, safe Harbor’s impact has grown significantly, now providing housing and support to over 150 women, children, and men, becoming one of the largest programs of its kind in the state of Kentucky.
In 2000, Ann and her husband embarked on a new venture by acquiring Second Hand Rose Consignment Shops, a well-known consignment store in Ashland. While her husband manages the clothing store, Ann has played a pivotal role in expanding the business. Over the years, they've received recognition as the top consignment store in the tri-state area and celebrated over 47 years of operation for the clothing store. They also expanded with a second location in 2003, offering consignment furniture and home furnishings, and later, a children's store in 2007.
Ann's educational journey includes graduating from Holy Family High School in 1970 and pursuing further studies at ACC in 1970-71, ultimately earning a B.A. from the University of Kentucky in 1974.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Ann is deeply committed to community service and has held leadership positions and appointments in various organizations, including the Ashland Community Technical College Board of Directors, the Kentucky Commission on Women, and more.
Throughout her life, Ann has been honored with several awards, such as the ACTC Distinguished Alumni Award, the Federal Home Loan Bank Carol Peterson Excellence in Service Award, and the Paul Harris Fellow for Rotary. She's also been recognized for her dedication to community service and leadership, receiving accolades like the United Way of Northeast KY Outstanding Director and the YWCA Tribute to Women Outstanding Non-Profit Director.
On a personal note, Ann is happily married to Sam Perkins and is the proud parent of three grown sons, Matt, Michael, and Nathan. She cherishes her role as a grandparent to Andrew Michael and Elizabeth Ann. Ann's faith plays an essential role in her life, and she is an active member of Holy Family Church.
In everything she does, Ann's passion for making a positive impact and creating opportunities for others remains at the forefront of her journey.
