Former WKU assistant vice president for alumni relations and executive director of the alumni association Rick DuBose filed for a house seat earlier today.

State Rep. Jody Richards (D) announced last month he would not seek re-election to the seat he currently holds. 

“Today, I am humbled and honored to file for state representative in District 20,” DuBose said in a press release. “My friend Jody Richards has served with great distinction for more than 40 years and leaves a legacy of accomplishment that has transformed not only the 20th District, but the entire Commonwealth. No one can match what Rep. Richards has done, but I pledge to work tirelessly to continue to serve the residents of our district and all of the citizens of Kentucky.” 

DuBose retired from WKU at the end of 2016 after working in the development and alumni relations divisions for nearly 19 years. During his time at WKU, he helped the leadership team raise more than $300 million in the university’s first two comprehensive campaigns.

According to the release, DuBose’s primary priorities will be expanding and improving workforce development and funding public education at all levels, including restoring funding to WKU and other post-secondary education opportunities.

“Education is the key to everything in the Commonwealth,”DuBose said. “Without a strong K-12 system, accessible and affordable universities and technical colleges, the future in Kentucky will not be a bright one.”

DuBose now works for a full-service consulting firm focused on non-profit philanthropy called Trek Advancement. 

DuBose graduated from WKU with a degree in government and sociology and has volunteered with numerous statewide organizations such as LifeSkills, Housing Authority of Bowling Green, Leadership Kentucky and The Governor’s School for the Arts.

DuBose also spent nearly 10 years serving as the executive vice president of the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce and the president/CEO of the Hopkinsville Chamber of Commerce.

Digital Managing Editor Evan Heichelbech can be reached at 502-415-1817 and [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @evanheich.