Major General (Retired) Kendall Penn has announced his resignation as Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA), effective Dec. 31, 2024.
Penn, who was appointed as the department’s second secretary on Jan. 10, 2023, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve Arkansas veterans.
“I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to serve and support Arkansas veterans, many of whom I served alongside in uniform for 34 years,” Penn said.
Prior to his appointment as ADVA Secretary, Penn served as The Adjutant General of the Arkansas National Guard for three years, bringing extensive experience and leadership to the department.
He acknowledged Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders for her partnership and support of veterans’ initiatives during his tenure.
“Secretary Penn’s life has been defined by service, and his latest chapter serving our veterans has been no different,” Gov. Sanders said. “Kendall leaves big shoes to fill, but I look forward to building on his accomplishments as we find new ways to attract veterans to our state, serve them while they’re here, and honor them for the sacrifices they’ve made for our nation.”
Under Penn’s leadership, ADVA achieved significant advancements in veteran services.
“I’m proud of the progress we have made together. Our team has significantly improved veteran outreach, provided stellar nursing home care for our elderly veteran population, and significantly improved our cemetery operations,” Penn said.
Gov. Sanders has not yet named Penn’s successor.
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