September 15, 2026

Press Contact:

Susie Merida

Hindman Settlement School

susie@hindman.org | (606) 785-5475

 

COMBS NAMED NINTH EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OF HINDMAN SETTLEMENT SCHOOL

 

HINDMAN, KY – Hindman Settlement School’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Dustin Combs as the next Executive Director, effective November 1, 2026.

 

Dustin Combs brings more than twenty-nine years of leadership experience to the position. Most recently he served the Knott County School System as director of federal programs, instructional supervisor and director of parent engagement.

 

“The HSS Board wanted to find someone with strong ties to Appalachia and, if possible, the Hindman Settlement School,” said Michael Sloane II, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Dustin with personal connection to the school, lifetime career in local public education, and his vision and passion makes him well suited for HSS‘s next chapter.”

Dustin earned bachelor’s degrees in History and English, Masters in Education and Rank I Supervisor of Instruction at Morehead State University.  He is a native of Knott County and grew up across Troublesome Creek from Hindman Settlement School.

“I recall catching lightning bugs on summer evenings there as a kid,” said Combs. “Even as a child I knew it was a special place, and I am extremely excited to join an organization that has been such a constant presence throughout my life. I grew up playing on campus. I remember taking part in ‘May Day’ celebrations, learning about nature with Jim Phelps, and music and art programs provided by the Settlement School. The Hindman Settlement School is unlike any other institution I’ve ever known and I feel extremely grateful for this opportunity,” said Combs. “I remember how much Mike Mullins [former director of HSS] invested in this organization. He made such an impact. I hope to draw from his inspiration and reinforce our community’s connection to the Hindman Settlement School.”

Combs serves as Chairman of the Knott County Community Foundation, has worked tirelessly with flood recovery efforts in the community and has been a long time fixture KY High School Speech League Board. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, antiquing, reading and spending time with his family, including his son, Cameron.

 

HSS is also pleased to announce the promotion of Corey Terry to Associate Executive Director. A native of Knott County, Terry has served at Hindman Settlement School in a variety of roles since 2015. During his 11 years with the organization, Corey has worked across nearly every department, gaining a broad understanding of the school’s programs, operations, and mission.

Corey holds an Associate Degree in Biblical and Theological Studies from Boyce College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Leadership from Spurgeon College.  He lives in Knott County with his wife Liz and four daughters.

“I am deeply humbled to have been given the opportunity to help lead an organization that I hold so dear. I cherish our history, I cherish our community, and I cherish the great work that we do. I am excited to work alongside Dustin to help lead this incredible, historic institution into the future.”