MISSION & VISION
Identifying, educating, connecting, and inspiring leaders to serve our community.
An inclusive community of enlightened and engaged servant leaders.
Leadership Staff
Christie Finley, President & CEO cfinley@leadershiphsv.org, 256.651.6521
Kevin Walker, CFO & COO kwalker@leadershiphsv.org, 256.653.4004
Diana King, Program Director, Flagship dking@leadershiphsv.org, 256.585.7023
Samantha Cooper, Program Director, Management Academy scooper@leadershiphsv.org, 256.631.9973
Kayla Clark, Program Director, Connect, Challenge & Marketing kclark@leadershiphsv.org, 317.504.7265
Katelyn Sides Baker, Program Director, Alumni, Focus & Spark kbaker@leadershiphsv.org, 256.339.6513
LEGACY LEVEL MEMBERS LEGACY LEVEL MEMBERS
Acacia Moore, F-40, MA-12, L-38
Alice Lessman, L-32
Andrew Jennings, L-27
Ashley Engles Ross, F-38, L-38
Beth Medley, F-28, L-28
Bill Colson, F-37, L-32
Carey Miller, F-29, L-28
Chris Halbrooks, MA-11, L-35
David King, F-10
Denise Swain, L-34
Diana King, F-36, L-37
Donna Lamb, L-2
Don Bowyer, F-42
Drew Battle, C-11, MA-6, L-33
Dr Ed Nichols, L-35
Heather Fisher, F-42
Hank Isenberg, L-28
Heather Schonrock, L-35
James Ross, F-37, L-33
Jim Diehl, F-22, L-26
Joanna White, C-22
Joe Alexander, F-3, L-15, M-4
Joe Yearta, F-18, L-29
Julian Butler, L-32, F-37
Kelli Powers, L-33
Kim Lewis, C-3, L-38
Kris Ison, L-35, MA-13
Kristine Harding, L-14
Lauren Battle, C-17
Linda Akenhead, L-13, M-5
Lori Light, L-14
Mary Occhipinti, L-35
Mary Ila Ward, L-34
Melony Yearta, F-42
Nick Vickerson, MA-11
Nilmini Thompson, L-34
Pam Alexander, F-11, L-23
Paul Fall, L-37
Paula Cushman, M-1
Quisha Bryant, C-14
Sandy Edwards, L-13
Sarah Savage-Jones, L-11
Sarah Macaluso, MA-11
Shannon Neblett, L-23
Sonia Robinson, C-3, L-31
Spencer Batcheller, MA-13, C-23
Steven Conway, L-35
Susan Anderson, L-14, F-1
Tammie Terry, L-23
Taron Thorpe, L-25
Tess Halbrooks, F-41, L-36
Tim Holtcamp, L-33
Tim Strait, F-40
Vincent Boles, L-25
Zachary Griffin, S-2
Walter Hough, C-23, MA-9
2024 - 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Board Chair: DREW BATT
ServisFirst Ba
Board Vice Chair: SARAH MACALUSO, MA-11
Red Sage Communications
Immediate Past Board Chair: QUISHA BRYANT, C-14 City of Huntsville
Finance Chair: CLINTON CARTER, L-35, C-9
CFO, Huntsville Hospital
Finance Vice Chair: GREG WHITEHEAD, C-8 Melvin, Bibb, Segars & Associates, P.C.
Secretary:
NICOLE SCHROER, L-26
Madison County Volunteer Lawyers Program
Board Advisor:
TARON THROPE, L-25
CB&S Bank
Alumni Chair:
DOUG BRAZIER, L-26
Calhoun Community College
Alumni Vice Chair: BILL COLSON, L-32 President, ASRI
Program Vice Chair, Flagship BRENT YONK, L-37
Administration Chair: VIOLET EDWARDS, C-14, L-36
Madison County Commission
Administration Vice Chair: DEREK NEWCOMB, C-22
Iron Mountain Solutions
Program Chair:
BETH MEDLEY, F-26, L-28
Keller Williams Realty Group
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Program Vice Chair, Connect ZACK YOUNG, C-19 GTEC
Program Vice Chair, Management Academy JULIE MCCAIN, L-36, F-39 Crestwood Medical Center
Governance Chair: HENRY THORNTON, F-41, C-25 Meta
Governance Vice Chair: MICHAEL JOHNSON, L-35 Huntsville Police Department
Recruitment/Marketing Chair: TYCE HUDSON, L-32
Freedom Real Estate & Capital LLC
Recruitment/Marketing Vice Chair: SARALYN DWYER, L-32
Freedom Real Estate & Capital LLC
Fund Development Chair: TESS HALBROOKS, L-34 Adtran
Fund Development Vice Chair: NILMINI THOMPSON, L-34, MA-10 Systems Products and Solutions, Inc.
DE&I Chair: ACACIA MOORE, F-40, MA-12, L-38 Parsons
DE&I Vice Chair: JEFF RICE, L-32 Huntsville Police Department
Mark Zesinger Mark Zesinger Manager
Compass Inc. MA-2, F-38
White Joanna White Consultant C-22
Manager, Core Business Operations
Deloitte Consulting, LLP F-43, C-26
Phillip Ray Phillip Ray Pathways System Engineer Northrop Grumman S-1
Katelyn
Alumni, Focus & Spark Program Director
Leadership Greater Huntsville C-19
Helene DeHarde Helene DeHarde Customer Strategy and Growth Leader
Deloitte Consulting, LLP F-43
Emily Holliday Human Resources Coordinator U.S. Space & Rocket Center S-2
Karessa Acosta Lee Senior Coordinator, UAH Office of Access, Connections & Engagement C-13
ShaVonne Cammack ShaVonne Cammack
Joanna
Karessa Acosta Lee
Emily Holliday
Katelyn Sides Baker
Sides Baker
SPARK CLASS 4 DIRECTORY SPARK CLASS 4 DIRECTORY
We are thrilled to introduce the fourth Spark Class, S-4. These 37 students come from 13 different colleges and universities located across the state and country.
Alabama A&M University
Athens State University
Auburn University
Calhoun Community College
Drake State Technical and Community College
Mississippi State University
Pennsylvania State University
Samford University
Spring Hill College
The University of Alabama
UAB - University of Alabama at Birmingham
UAH - University of Alabama in Huntsville
UNA- University of North Alabama
Alyson Burroughs Alyson Burroughs
The University of Alabama | Recent Grad | Criminology and Criminal Justice
My name is Alyson Burroughs and I am a recent graduate from the University of Alabama I just graduated in May 2024 with a Bachelors in Arts majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice I enjoy spending time with friends and family and learning new things I am the only person in my family who decided to go the route of trying to make a career in the government I would love to learn more about getting connected in the North AL area A fun fact about me is that I am a triplet and we all went to college at The University of Alabama and all got different degrees
manda Coots manda Coots
ke State Technical and Community College | Sophomore | ness Accounting
a military spouse and mother of two I went back to school after 20 years to a degree in business I am currently the CEO of Coots Welding & cation in Elkmont, Alabama I have volunteered at the LCCI in Athens I am ntly a Blue Eagle Ambassador at J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College with a 4.0 GPA.
Cameron Cummings Cameron Cummings
Mississippi State University | Junior | Cyber Security
My name is Cameron Cummings, a junior at Mississippi State University, double majoring in Software Engineering and Cyber Security I'm really passionate about technology and entrepreneurship Currently, I work at the Mississippi State University Entrepreneurship Center, where I assist with various projects and help maintain the server systems Last summer, I interned at MAD Security as an analyst, where I got hands-on experience with security technologies and automated workflows I'm also the founder of Bridge to Cyber, a startup focused on cyber security training I’ve had some success, including winning second place in the Mississippi State Startup Summit Outside of work and school, I'm involved in several organizations, including being a brother of Kappa Alpha Psi, Engineers without Borders, and the National Society of Black Engineers I'm always looking for new challenges and opportunities to grow in every field.
Chandlor Dobbs Chandlor Dobbs
UAB - The University of Alabama at Birmingham | Junior | Biomedical Engineering
I'm a passionate and driven individual with a deep interest in biomedical engineering, currently pursuing my studies as a transfer student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Originally drawn to the field by its potential to blend my fascination with science and technology with a desire to make a positive impact on healthcare, I found UAB's renowned program to be the perfect fit for my academic and career aspirations I'm excited to immerse myself in the rigorous coursework, cutting-edge research opportunities, and collaborative environment that UAB offers, as I strive to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career at the intersection of engineering and medicine
Clifton Shaw Clifton Shaw
Alabama A&M University | Junior | Logistics/Supply Chain Management
Greetings, my name is Clifton Shaw I am a junior at Alabama A&M university majoring in logistics/supply chain management I am currently a board member of Global logistics supply chain club (GLSCC) I also work in tech for stem squad in Huntsville, AL where we tech programming, cybersecurity and robots Recently on April 6 , me and my team demonstrated Rasberry Pi projects conducting a traffic light , motion sensor, and temperature sensor as well I am very excited to join Spark to expound on My leadership roles and I seek to network with fellow mentors and students
koro koro
ty of North Alabama | Recent Grad | Business Administration
My name is Constance Okoro and I moved to the Huntsville area back in 2009 I absolutely love it here and I'm only 5 5 hours away from my original home in Vicksburg, Mississippi I just graduated from UNA on May 11, 2024 with my first bachelor's degree and I am very proud of my accomplishment I currently work as a Paralegal and I will be looking into applying for law school this fall
Courtney Green Courtney Green
Athens State University | Recent Grad | Global Logistic and Supply Chain Management
Meet Courtney Green Native of Salina, Kansas whom relocated to North Alabama in 2016 She is a devoted Christian, single-mother to a stunning little girl named Khloe, and overall go-getter Ms Green graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and is currently enrolled in their master’s program for Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management For the last six years she has been a dedicated employee of Polaris Industries- Huntsville where she started as an operator and worked her way to Materials Scheduler In spite of overcoming many traumas in her thirty-one years of life she continues to aspire to shine light and positivity to others even while battling Lupus As a Domestic Violence survivor, she is zealous in encouraging others of the hope of freeing themselves from their circumstances by recognizing the signs of abuse and providing resources to those in need In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, networking with others, working in her “Bling Boutique” ,and assisting others through her gifts of writing under her business This Is It by CG She hopes to become a Logistics Analyst after completing her degree and inspires to be a non-profit owner
Crystal McKnight Crystal McKnight
Pennsylvania State University | Sophomore | Organizational Leadership
My name is Crystal McKnight I'm a proud prior service Army veteran with a robust background in agile coaching, project development, and organizational leadership training and mentoring My current role is with the amazing COLSA company, proudly supporting the Army Materiel Command (AMC), where I train, mentor, and facilitate process improvements for the AMC Army Metering Program (AMP) I have a deep passion for working with people and helping them enhance their skills and capabilities In addition to my professional endeavors, I'm also a student at Penn State University, working towards my Bachelor's degree in Psychology In addition to my work with COLSA and studying at Penn State I am also pursuing my license in Real Estate
Darian Lusk Darian Lusk
The University of Alabama | Senior | Finance/Mathematics
Raised in Arab, AL, I am now pursuing a degree in Finance with a minor in Mathematics at The University of Alabama I have grown immensely in not only my academic pursuits but largely in my values and perspectives on the world that I feel I can utilize past the four years that I am here I have found that my true passion lies in utilizing my analytical skills to solve real world issues accompanied with my problem-solving abilities to help others and inflict positive change As the founder of my own pressure washing company, I gained firsthand insight into the profound impact of maintaining integrity across all endeavors All the while leading the UA women ' s practice basketball team, I am able to demonstrate strong leadership skills and a commitment to excellence in all areas of my life Lastly, balancing two part time jobs at the Culverhouse Technology Group and Northridge Fitness I am able to contribute to a positive and productive environment every day These roles and activities do not define me but rather allow me to contribute actively to creating a better world
David Harris David Harris
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Senior | Foreign Language and International Trade
I am a current UAH senior majoring in Foreign Language and International Trade with a passion for international relations I just completed my year abroad in Germany with the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals, where I studied at the University of Greifswald and completed an internship in corporate finance in Hamburg, Germany. I am very excited to be back in Huntsville, the place I truly call home, and I am eager to find ways to connect with and contribute to the community!
DiMya Evans DiMya Evans
Spring Hill College | Grad Student | Business Administration
My name is DiMya Evans I am a graduate student at Spring Hill College, obtaining my Masters' of Business Administration I am passionate about effective communication, mobilizing our communities, and sustainability I am currently the president of Spring Hill College's campus programming board and the women ' s Track and Field team captain I am also a Black Student Union, Fishing Club, and TriO SSS member I enjoy reading, shopping, working out, and community service in my spare time
Ellen Mims Ellen Mims
Athens State University | Grad Student | Masters of Strategic Leadership and Business Analytics
Ellen Mims is a graduate of Auburn University and is currently getting her Masters Degree in Strategic Leadership and Business Analytics from Athens State University She currently works for the State of Tennessee as a Commercial Lease Administrator As she continues her education, she continues to enhance her personal and social skills Outside of work and school she loves being outside on the water and spending time with her niece and nephew
Emmarosa Bocanegra Emmarosa Bocanegra
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Junior | Biological Sciences
I am originally from Lima, Peru. I was raised in a large hispanic family with strong morals. My father is Air Force retired military, I grow with discipline and order. When I was living in Lima, I studied to be a Midwife. In United States, I got my Medical Assistant Diploma and CNA. I got my associates in Science and liberal Arts. Now, I am working on my Healthcare Management Bachelors with minor in clinical manager in UAB I am working to get my Bachelors in Biological Science as well
Evelyn Torstenson Evelyn Torstenson
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Sophomore | Industrial and Systems Engineering
Evelyn Torstenson is an upcoming sophomore at the University of Alabama in Huntsville, where she is majoring in Industrial and Systems Engineering At UAH, she's involved in their Society of Women Engineers chapter, where she recently got elected as the Treasurer for the upcoming year. Outside of her major, she participates in the performing arts, as she is part of a local band and continues to participate in community theater. She is passionate about helping her community and has been volunteering at various different organizations in Huntsville for many years.
Gracie Pettus Gracie Pettus
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Junior | Communication Arts
My name is Gracie, and I am what the people in my life might call a 'ball of energy'! I am a bubbly, excited kind of person who is always ready to learn, challenge, and experience! Some of my passions include non-profit work, music, nature, and community I am currently attending the University of Alabama at Huntsville for my junior year, and I hope to eventually create my own non-profit after college I am excited about this opportunity, and I hope to gain more knowledge, make connections, and make new friends along the way!
Jacobie Kelsey Jacobie Kelsey
Alabama A&M University | Graduate Student | Master of Social Work
Ja’cobie D Kelsey is the Office Human Resources Administrative Assistant at the historical Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, Normal Alabama Ja’cobie has extensive knowledge of office management policies, practices and procedures A 2003 Lane College graduate (B A in Sociology) Ja’cobie is currently a Master of Social Work graduate student with a Concentration in Community Mental Health In her free time, Jacobie enjoys volunteering, mentoring and baking
Jameer Walker Jameer Walker
UNA - The University of North Alabama | Junior | Finance
My name is Jameer Walker, and I am a second-year student at the University of North Alabama entering as a Junior. I am passionate about all things finance and anything that revolves around the economic world I got interested in finance during the Pandemic I was able to see how some individuals were able to flourish financially due to many incomegenerating assets and how others, unfortunately, struggled due to the hardship of the Coronavirus Because of this, an idea sparked in my mind The idea revolved around me teaching others the essential financial concepts that ensure financial safety to withstand any storm of any kind This is my mission while I'm in college I would love to obtain my degree to become a financial advisor to help those in need
Jayden Adolphin Jayden Adolphin
Alabama A&M University | Senior | Accounting
I am Jayden Adolphin a Senior Accounting Major from Clarksville, TN, and I'm currently pursuing a degree in Accounting at Alabama A&M University I have a passion for numbers and problem-solving, which led me to pursue a career in Accounting Throughout my academic journey, I've developed strong analytical skills and attention to detail, which I believe are essential for success in the accounting field I'm eager to apply my classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios and gain hands-on experience through an internship opportunity Outside of academics, I enjoy volunteering in my community and staying active in campus organizations I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to a dynamic team and further develop my skills in a professional setting
Jessica Dodson Jessica Dodson
The University of Alabama | Junior | Management Information Systems
Growing up in Huntsville, and being a part of the Buckhorn High School graduating class of 2021, I am able to bring a blend of my hometown values and academic ambition to my current pursuits at the University of Alabama Here I am in my junior year pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems While balancing my academic pursuits, I also work part time for the Culverhouse Technology Group Here my enthusiasm to learn and motivation to efficiently and effectively get the job done, drive me to excel I also thrive in fostering diverse communities and building strong connections My involvement on campus such as MIS Ambassadors, Best Buddies, serving as secretary for Professional Women in Communications and Business, and being a part of the Culverhouse Student Recruitment Team serve as a reflection of these values I strive to exhibit in my life I am also an active member of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and Church at the Oaks I strive to create inclusive spaces where individuals from all walks of life feel valued & empowered
Jessika Jones Jessika Jones
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Senior | Marketing
My name is Jessika Jones and I am a junior Marketing major at the University of Alabama in Huntsville I was born and raised in Athens, Alabama and graduated from Athens High School in 2021 I was involved in many organizations in high school and discovered a passion for leadership During my time in college, I have been a part of organizations such as the Student Government Association, Delta Zeta, College of Business Ambassadors, Dance Marathon, and Women in Business and Leadership Within those organizations, I have served in many leadership roles including Vice President of Programs for Delta Zeta and President of Dance Marathon These organizations have allowed me to not only further my leadership skills but also follow my passion, giving back to my community I plan to graduate with my undergraduate degree in the spring of 2025 and then begin pursuing a master's degree
Jordan Love Jordan Love
Alabama A&M University | Senior | Electrical Engineering
My name is Jordan Love, a senior electrical engineering major, with a concentration in micro-electronics I specialize in the making of solid state thin filmed batteries, such as the batteries in iPhone, and apple watches I currently have a 2 97 GPA, with a projected 3 05 GPA after this semester I work on campus, at the Drake L R C (library), where I am able to express my creativity through the creations of a NEW virtual reality room, podcast room, as well as a 3D studio. I also teach willing students, and people interested, the importance of investing in the stock market through my STOCK MARKET LITERACY COURSES As Vice President of M A N U P I am in charge of creating and following through with community service events on the AAMU campus as well as the surrounding communities!
sh Corker sh Corker
houn Community College | Sophomore | Computer Science
a 19-year-old who has spent my entire life in North Alabama. As the youngest of six ren and an uncle to six nieces and nephews, family is a significant part of my life e the age of 16, I have consistently held a job, balancing work with high school and ughout my freshman year of college In my free time, I enjoy spending quality ments with my family and my wonderful girlfriend I also dedicate time to working out exploring the outdoors I have a strong passion for both mental and physical health, which influences many of my daily activities This passion not only shapes my personal routine but also inspires my future aspirations
Joshua VanBuren Joshua VanBuren
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Recent Grad | Digital Animation
I am a proud graduate of the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), holding a Bachelor's degree in Digital Animation Alongside my professional endeavors at UAH, where I specialize in contract work, I devote my time to volunteering with the North Alabama Korean Association (NAKA). My passion for digital animation fuels my creative pursuits, blending technical expertise with artistic vision. With a commitment to both my career and community, I strive to make meaningful contributions through my work and volunteer efforts in North Alabama.
Lorsong Baker Lorsong Baker
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Senior | Aerospace Engineering
I'm someone deeply committed to community service and helping those in need Giving back has always been a cornerstone of my values, and I'm deeply committed to making a positive impact wherever I can In my free time, you'll often find me volunteering at the local animal shelter or spending time with others at my colleges Catholic Campus Ministry house I also have a strong affinity for animals and cherish the time I spend with them, whether it's through volunteer work or simply enjoying their company Alongside my passion for community service, I have a knack for teaching and enjoy sharing my knowledge with peers and those eager to learn And when I'm not engaged in community work or teaching, you can bet that I'm gazing up at the stars, marveling at the wonders of the universe and nurturing my love for all things space
Laurel Coleman Laurel Coleman
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Junior | Accounting
My names Laurel Coleman and I’m an upcoming junior at UAH studying accounting I’m currently a runner at Wilmer and Lee, PA Outside of that I enjoy hiking, painting, and reading I grew up in Birmingham, AL and moved to Huntsville two years ago for college After graduation my main goal is to be able to get a job where I am able to travel the world
Lillian Ross Lillian Ross
Samford University | Senior | BFA Theatre for Youth
Lillian Ross is a senior Theatre for Youth major at Samford University with a minor in Studio Art, specializing in teaching artistry and performance They are an incredibly involved student within their program and community, working with nonprofits, such as Fantasy Playhouse and Studio by the Tracks in Irondale, AL Ross is committed to promoting the arts within their communities, serving on student artistry boards, and working with local film projects and regional theatres In the future, Ross hopes to develop a nonprofit for expressive arts therapy that will make restorative art practices more accessible within schools and adult rehabilitation programs They believe this will promote healing and social change for a wide demographic of people, empowering them to find freedom in joy and self-expression
Makenzie Baker Makenzie Baker
Athens State University | Junior | Health Science
My name is Makenzie Baker. I attended Calhoun community college where I received my basic education, then transferred to Athens State University for my bachelors I have been a full time student and employee throughout school, working in different areas of healthcare I currently work for a family practice where I get to meet a lot of new patients and see a lot of recurring patients If I had to describe myself in two words it would be spirited and loyal My coworkers may say that I am spirited and loyal to a fault I love being a part of a team and being able to be that person anyone can trust to confide in without feeling like I am judging them I am always looking for way to improve and become a better friend, coworker, and person
Mariah Kelly Mariah Kelly
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Recent Grad | Business Management
As a highly motivated individual with experience in business development and marketing, I bring a unique blend of interpersonal skills and organizational abilities to any role. Over the past year, my internship at Transcend has provided invaluable experience in driving strategic initiatives, fostering customer relationships, and executing effective marketing initiatives With a background in customer service, I've honed my ability to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and provide top-notch support to customers I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business Management, set to be completed in May 2024, my coursework has provided a solid foundation in business principles, social media marketing, and data analytics
Marley Acosta Lee Marley Acosta Lee
Auburn University | Senior | Natural Resources Management
My name is Marley Acosta Lee and I am a senior in Natural Resources Management at Auburn University with a minor in Environmental Law I love being outdoors and learning about nature in general I am currently employed at the Donald E Davis Arboretum and I assist in maintaining the special collections there which includes many rare species of native flora I have recently gotten certified as a type 2 Wildland Firefighter and I hope to use that in my career as a steward for the environment In addition to my love for nature, I also love listening to music I am a member of WEGL which is Auburn's student radio organization and I am a DJ on my own show called This Must Be the Place
Merrilee Merrilee Schartung
Schartung
Auburn University | Junior | Industrial and Systems Engineering
I am a sophomore in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University, where I am deeply involved in campus life Alongside my academic pursuits, I am an active member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, the Society of Women Engineers, and the Save the Bees club Outside of my academic and extracurricular activities, I enjoy doing different puzzles, including nightly crossword puzzles, and I am interested in arts and crafts More than anything, I am driven by my passion for helping others I have also accepted a cooperative education opportunity with Southwire, which aligns perfectly with my academic interests I am excited to expand my knowledge and skills, knowing that even as a student, I can contribute to making the world a better place
Michael Gronkowski Michael Gronkowski
Calhoun Community College | Junior | Computer Information Systems-Cybersecurity
My name is Mike Gronkowski, originally from Pennsylvania Served in the United States Army for nearly 17 years and was discharged due to wounds and injuries sustained while in the military Used my GI Bill to attend and graduate college I am married and have a daughter who is currently attending college at Penn State University in Pennsylvania I am a Gold Legacy Life Member of VFW Post 2702 in Huntsville Alabama and currently serving as the VFW Department of Alabama Junior Vice Commander My passion is community service and helping veterans By dedicating my time and effort to serving my community and supporting veterans, I play a crucial role in improving the lives of those who have served their country and the broader community My commitment helps foster a sense of unity and support within the community, creating a positive environment where individuals feel valued and supported
Rachel Rachel Nicaise Nicaise
UAB - The University of Alabama
at Birmingham | Senior | Community Health and Human Services/Social
Work
I was born and raised in Huntsville I recently put down roots here and working on developing my pet care business Although I am enrolled in UAB, I am in Huntsville full time and complete all my coursework online In high school I was very active in my faith community and held leadership responsibilities on regional and national levels I helped pioneer a program of interfaith teenagers who educated each other and volunteered side by side to give back to their community I enjoyed being a part of community change so much that I resolved to study something in college that would let me continue this work I completed an abridged seminary program between my senior year of high school and my freshman year of college I then completed my Associate's degree in Social Work at Calhoun Community College and transferred to UAB to study Community Health and Human Services I will complete my degree in 2025 and hope to work in the nonprofit sector or for the city directly
Rosalyn Smith Rosalyn Smith
Alabama A&M University | Sophomore | Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Greetings my name is Rosalyn Smith, and I am a Sophomore at Alabama A&M University, majoring in Logistics and Supply Chain Management I am from a small town known as Hillsboro AL I am a member of the Global Logistics and Supply Chain Club as well as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Additionally, I am a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success at AAMU I am committed to community service and engagement For the past few years, I have been one of many mentors for the Precious Pearls, a group of teenage girls that arrange from the ages of 13-17 years old Within the group we teach them proper etiquette training as well as participating in various volunteer opportunities With my current position as a Team Leader at Target Distribution Center, I know that being a participant in the SPARK program will enhance my leadership development skills
Ryan Bier Ryan Bier
Auburn University | Recent Grad | Political Science & History
I'm Ryan Bier, and I'm currently working as the Program Coordinator at the Free 2 Teach non-profit. I've lived in North Alabama since 2007, when my family moved to Madison. From 2018 until 2022, I attended Auburn University. I graduated with a B.A. in political science and history. I'm thrilled to be a part of the community here, and I'm excited about the the opportunity to learn more about Huntsville's thriving professional landscape
Sarah Newberry Sarah Newberry
UAH - The University of Alabama in Huntsville | Senior | Finance
Sarah is a Senior Finance major from New Hope, Alabama She is expected to graduate in December ‘24 Upon graduation, she is looking forward to continuing her career at Bold Agency During her time at UAH, she has been involved in the College of Business Ambassador Program, Women in Business & Leadership Club, Intervarsity, & the Capital Management Group In her spare time she enjoys traveling, wakeboarding, writing, reading, and art One of the things I'm passionate about is wakeboarding I just recently started wakeboarding last summer and it has been such a fun experience. Being out on the water and riding is such a unique experience and there's nothing like it It's a way to disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and has become one of my beloved newfound passions
Shantele Shantele Arrington Arrington
Athens State University | Grad Student | Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management
I come from a close-knit family of four siblings, where I've learned the value of strong bonds and community support Having completed my Bachelor of Science last summer, I decided to further my education at Athens State University, where I am currently pursuing a master's degree in global logistics and supply chain management Alongside my studies, I proudly serve as the Vice President of the Association of Supply Chain Management student chapter, where I actively contribute to fostering growth and collaboration within the field With nine years of experience in automotive manufacturing under my belt, I am deeply committed to lifelong learning and community engagement I am dedicated to revitalizing neglected areas and promoting inclusive growth in North Alabama Beyond work and studies, I find joy in exploring new destinations, experimenting with culinary creations, and indulging in artistic activities In my free time, I also enjoy participating in local 5K events as a way to stay active and connected to my community
Taylor Wilson Taylor Wilson
Alabama A&M University | Senior | Logistics and Supply Chain Management
My name is Taylor Wilson I was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama I am an only child; however, I have a Shih Tzu named Princess I graduated from Calhoun Community College on May 12, 2021, where I was an active member of the National Honor Society and participated in various clubs Transferring to Alabama A&M, I pursued a major in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, maintaining a GPA of 3 9 Scheduled to graduate in December 2024, I currently hold a position at GE Appliances and will transition to Lockheed Martin on June 3, 2024 I serve as the Executive Secretary of Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management Additionally, I am involved in the National Society of Leadership and Success Beyond work and academics, I cherish spending time with loved ones, traveling, and exploring diverse cultures and cuisines In my spare time, I volunteer in the nursery and mentor children, finding fulfillment in practical learning experiences