From 1980-1990, he was Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Delaware. From 1978-1980, he was Deputy State Superintendent.

Bill served on the Council of Chief State School Officers in various capacities from 1985 through 1990, culminating in the Presidency of the organization in 1990. He also served as Commissioner of the Education Commission of the States from 1980-1990.

From 1969-1978, Dr. Keene was Superintendent of the Appoquinimink School District in Odessa, Delaware. He was a founding member of Jobs for Delaware Graduates and Jobs for America's Graduates and continues to serve on the national Board of Jobs for America's Graduates.

Bill's service in Delaware organizations includes Goldey Beacom College as a Trustee, the Delaware Council on Economic Education; the Delaware Bay Marine Institute, Boy Scouts of America - DE/MD/VA Council; United Way for Central Delaware, the Delaware Association of School Administrators; Delaware Chief School Officers Association; and many others.

His service to national organizations includes the National Association of State Boards of Education; National Education Association; National Association of School Administrators; American Vocational Association; Association of School Business Officials; Educational Resources Association; Reserve Officers Association, the American Legion, and many others.