For Immediate Release

August 18, 2025

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced the Jackson County Legislature has confirmed the selection of COMBAT’s new Executive Director.

After an intensive and thorough interview process, Murray Woodard has been chosen to lead the agency responsible for strategically allocating more than $30 million annually to support violence prevention efforts, treatment services, and law enforcement initiatives throughout Jackson County. 

“Mr. Woodard is the kind of leader COMBAT needs to maximize our impact on public safety,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “His extensive background in philanthropy, track record of managing grant portfolios, and ability to building meaningful partnerships with community organizations will ensure our tax dollars work effectively to support the organizations and programs that make our neighborhoods safer.” 

Woodard brings more than 15 years of experience in youth development, education equity, fiscal oversight, and community engagement. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer at the nonprofit, BLAQUE Promise Project, where he led initiatives to address the root causes of violence, crime, and educational inequity. Prior to that role, Woodard spent nine years at the Kauffman Foundation, serving as both Engagement Manager and Program Officer, where he strengthened external relationships, oversaw a more than $4 million grant portfolio, and led the Foundation’s community engagement initiatives. 

Murray is a graduate of the University of Central Missouri and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

As Executive Director, Woodard will ensure COMBAT’s resources reach the community organizations and law enforcement agencies making the greatest impact on violence prevention and intervention. 

“Murray Woodard will be a great leader for COMBAT and is connected to the community,” said Jackson County Legislature Chairman DaRon McGee. “Murray will move COMBAT forward and be a leader for Jackson County, families, and neighborhoods.”

Woodard will begin his new role in September. 

COMBAT (Community Backed Anti-Crime Tax) works under the direction of the Prosecutor’s Office, funded by a quarter-cent sales tax, which supports violence prevention programs, treatment services, and law enforcement initiatives including the Jackson County Drug Task Force, school resource officers, and anti-drug/anti-violence educational programs. Grant funding is distributed to nonprofit agencies providing prevention and treatment services upon approval by the COMBAT Anti-Crime Commission and the County Legislature. 

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Media Contact: 

Jazzlyn Johnson

Director of Communications 

Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office 

415 E 12th Street

Kansas City, MO - 64106

(816) 929-1289 

jazzlyn.johnson@jacksongov.org 

https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com