Adam Earnheardt, professor in the Department of Strategic Communication and Media and student media advisor at Youngstown State University, was named president of the Shepherd of the Valley Board of Directors at the organization’s annual meeting on Monday, Nov. 17. The meeting was held at Shepherd of the Valley’s Poland campus.

Shepherd of the Valley is a nonprofit, faith-based organization that has supported older adults in the Mahoning Valley for more than 50 years. The organization offers housing, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services across its campuses in Liberty, Howland, Poland and Boardman, with a new Salem location set to open in 2026. Today, Shepherd of the Valley remains a leading provider of senior living and long-term care services in the region.

Earnheardt has served on the Shepherd of the Valley Board of Directors since 2019, bringing extensive experience in organizational governance, strategic planning and professional communication to the leadership team.

“It is an immense honor to be entrusted with the presidency of an organization as vital as Shepherd of the Valley,” Earnheardt said. “This organization plays a crucial role in providing compassionate care for our community’s seniors. I look forward to leveraging my experience in collaborative governance and communication from my two decades at YSU to further the board’s mission and ensure the highest standards of service are maintained.”

A highly regarded faculty member and administrator at YSU, Earnheardt previously served eight years as department chair and led the overhaul of the university’s core general education curriculum. He is known for his expertise in media communication, social media and community engagement, and is a frequent contributor to local and national media.

“Adam’s dedication to service — at Shepherd of the Valley, at Youngstown State, in the Mahoning Valley and beyond — exemplifies the core values of both our organization and the university,” said Shepherd of the Valley CEO Rich Limongi. “His appointment to this leadership role is a recognition of his exceptional administrative skills and his commitment to delivering outstanding long-term care in the Valley. We are proud that he will continue to serve our organization.”

Earnheardt holds a Ph.D. in communication from Kent State University and is a past executive director of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists and the Youngstown Press Club.