The Virginia High School League announced Executive Director Ken Tilley will retire at the end of this school year after serving as executive director since 1994. The longest tenured state high school association administrator in the country, at the time of his retirement on June 30, 2016, Tilley will have served 40 years and eight months, including 22 years as executive director.

Ken Tilley

Tilley, who will complete 30 years of service with the VHSL, joined the VHSL staff in February, 1986 as program supervisor.  Prior to joining the VHSL, he was on the staff at the North Carolina High School Athletic Association from 1975-86.

Among the innovative programs that have occurred under his leadership are a nationally renowned Student Leaders Conference, expanded corporate partnerships and the VHSL Foundation endowment, coaches education and professional development, greatly expanded playoff programs and annual scholarship opportunities for deserving students. 

“I’ve been blessed to have enjoyed a career that allowed me to work with and alongside so many people who were dedicated to serving the best interests of student athletes and activities participants,” said Tilley. “Some of my favorite memories include watching the large number of incredible athletes that Virginia has produced as well as the most recent event, our inaugural Film Festival, where amazing students created works ranging from animation to documentary to commercial/PSA.

“With the tremendous support of the VHSL staff, executive committee, principals and athletic administrators, coaches, officials, media, medical professionals and others, I’m so proud of what was accomplished during my 30 years with the League and truly believe the best is yet to come.”

“With Ken Tilley's retirement, the nation loses its fourth longest serving current state executive director,” said NFHS Executive Director Bob Gardner. “Ken earned the respect of his colleagues with his leadership on several national committees including strategic planning for the NFHS. He is an ardent advocate for student participation in athletics and activities and will be missed in Virginia and the nation.”

“In his 22 years as executive director and 30 plus overall years, Ken Tilley has been a selfless service leader to the students of Virginia,” said VHSL Executive Committee Chairman and Mountain View High School Principal Jim Stemple. “Through his leadership, the VHSL office is recognized as one of the strongest high school leagues in the nation. His dedication to the student-athletes and activities participants of Virginia is second to none and his legacy of leadership will live on for many years beyond his retirement. On behalf of all the principals in Virginia I say, “Thank you,” and wish Ken all the best in his retirement and look forward to celebrating his contributions in his final year as executive director.”