Barberton Community Foundation Names Kim Graves Director of Communications
Graves brings 20 years of experience in communications, brand strategy, and marketing leadership.
March 17, 2026
Barberton Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Kim Graves has joined the organization as Director of Communications following a competitive search.
Graves brings 20 years of experience in communications, brand strategy, and marketing leadership. In this role, she will help lead the Foundation’s messaging strategy, media relations, digital platforms, and community engagement efforts, strengthening awareness of the Foundation’s strategic priorities and its role as a community funder and steward of charitable funds invested in Barberton’s future.
“Kim brings a thoughtful, strategic approach to communications that aligns directly with where the Foundation is headed,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “As we move into the next phase of our strategic plan, clear and consistent communication is essential. Her leadership will help ensure our community understands our priorities, how we are setting a clear path for long-term impact, and how people can connect with and support this work.”
Graves most recently served as Director of University Relations at Walsh University, where she partnered with executive leadership to strengthen the institution’s reputation, enhance media presence, and advance its mission through strategic storytelling.
She began her career in broadcast journalism at WKYC News 3 before moving into communications leadership roles in nonprofit organizations. She later held a senior leadership role with Girl Scouts of North East Ohio, where she led council-wide marketing, communications, and recruitment strategies, expanding membership and strengthening brand visibility across the region. She also served as a communications consultant to Girl Scouts of the USA, helping align marketing and recruitment processes nationwide.
Graves said the Foundation’s role in strengthening the community and expanding opportunity for Barberton residents is what drew her to the position.
“Barberton has strong organizations and people working every day to strengthen the future of this community,” said Graves. “The Foundation plays a unique role in supporting that work, and I look forward to partnering with leadership, board members, donors, and community stakeholders to tell those stories with clarity, authenticity, and purpose.”
Graves serves on the Board of Directors for Not For Sale: One Step At A Time, a nonprofit dedicated to education and awareness in the fight against human trafficking. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from Kent State University.
###
About Barberton Community Foundation
Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $109 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve, now and forever, the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration, and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs. To read more about Barberton Community Foundation visit barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook.