Mark Darnell

Dungeon Master Committee Member

Mark Darnell is a Justice Program Administrator with the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice, dedicated to professional development, leadership training, and youth advocacy. With over two decades of experience working with at-risk youth, he has served in various roles, including teacher, youth worker, vocational coordinator, and supervisor. Holding a BS in Education and an MS in Adolescent Developmental Psychology, Mark specializes in developing and delivering training programs on Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, and Leadership.

Mark’s passion lies in helping young people discover their potential and create lasting, positive change in their lives. Having experienced poverty and adversity firsthand, he understands the struggles that many youth face and is committed to empowering them with the skills, guidance, and support needed to overcome obstacles.

Beyond his work in juvenile justice, Mark is involved in Dice Alliance, a nonprofit organization that leverages tabletop role-playing games to help youth build critical thinking, communication, and emotional resilience. He believes in the power of storytelling, mentorship, and interactive learning to inspire confidence and self-discovery.

Mark is a Kentucky Colonel and a strong advocate for equity, education, and rehabilitation-focused approaches in the juvenile justice system. His mission is to equip young people with the tools to recognize their own strength and capacity for growth, guiding them toward a future of true and positive transformation.