The Kentucky State Fair Board elected Dr. David Williams as Chairman and Joe Goggin as Vice Chairman, who began their new roles Thursday, June 26.
“The strength of the Kentucky State Fair Board lies in the diverse expertise and perspectives its members bring. Representing communities and industries from across the Commonwealth, they contribute a depth of knowledge that guides Kentucky Venues’ ongoing operations,” David S. Beck, President & CEO of Kentucky Venues, shared. “Their support helps ensure we remain rooted in the needs of Kentuckians while also advancing our mission to grow and operate the state’s premier facilities and events. Along with management, I commend those who continue to serve and welcome the new leadership of my friends and colleagues, Dr. David Williams as chairman and Mr. Joe Goggin as Vice Chairman.”
Dr. Williams, a board member since 2016, has contributed to significant growth at the agency while also keeping a watchful eye over revenue and expenses as Chairman of the Finance and Budget Committee. In addition, he has served on numerous other committees, including the Design & Renovation Committee of the new buildings forthcoming. At the Kentucky State Fair Dr. Williams, showed cattle as a youth, his children exhibited cattle, crafts and horses in their youth years and the family has competed at the highest level of competition at the Kentucky Venues-produced World’s Championship Horse Show, earning multiple World’s Championship and one World’s Grand Championship title.
“The Kentucky Expo Center is where dreams come true and lifetime memories are made” said Dr. Williams, Chairman of the Kentucky State Fair Board. “My mission is to proudly serve the Commonwealth, honor our heritage, and advance the growth and success of the Kentucky State Fair Board for the benefit of all Kentuckians.”
Vice Chairman Joe Goggin, also elected during the June meeting, has similarly deep ties to the agency. Goggin has attended every Kentucky State Fair since birth and joined the board in 2016. A longtime cattle showman, Goggin grew up showing and competing at the North American International Livestock Exposition and the Fair. He has served on numerous committees, including chairing the Kentucky State Fair Committee and the Design and Renovation Committees. Similar to Williams, the Goggin family has participated in various events hosted at the facility.
“Kentucky Venues has played a defining role in my life, just as it has for millions of others. Through its two world-class facilities, the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center, it serves as a powerful economic engine and a stage for events that reflect who we are as Kentuckians. I’m honored to serve in this new capacity and support our mission to represent the Commonwealth proudly and drive its future forward,” said Joe Goggin, Vice Chairman of the Kentucky State Fair Board.
Dr. Mark Lynn, who served as Chairman from 2012–2020 and again from 2021 to June 26, 2025, nominated Dr. Williams for the role. The board voted in favor of the nomination.
“I have the utmost respect and admiration for Dr. Williams,” Lynn stated during the board’s June meeting. “His integrity, honesty, and heart are exactly what this board and this organization need.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Lynn added, “When I began this role, I was exceptionally surprised by how much happens here. Over the years, I’ve gained immense respect for those serving on this board and Kentucky Venues as an organization. From supporting the operations to advancing long-term improvements, I’ve seen firsthand how uniquely positioned these venues are to serve the public and make an impact.”
Dr. Lynn remains an active Kentucky State Fair Board member. Former Vice Chair David Wallace continues to serve the board as an ex-officio member of the Design & Renovation Committee.
