Wanda J. Willis is Vice President for Civic Leadership at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, where she provides strategic leadership to strengthen organizations and empower communities. She leads the Foundation’s first Black Giving Initiative, advancing equity and collective philanthropy across the region.

With more than two decades of experience as an advancement executive, Wanda is widely respected for elevating community voices and fostering transformational change. Her leadership reflects a deep belief that strong, connected communities create opportunity for all.

Wanda’s extensive civic service includes leadership roles across nonprofit, philanthropic, and advocacy organizations. Her career is defined by purpose-driven leadership, inclusive engagement, and a lifelong commitment to lifting communities.

Travis L. Williams is President and CEO of LIFT JAX, a community-driven organization dedicated to revitalizing Jacksonville’s urban core and breaking cycles of generational poverty through place-based transformation. A proud Jacksonville native, Travis leads work centered in the Historic Eastside—one of the city’s most significant historically Black neighborhoods and a community his family has called home for generations.

Since joining LIFT JAX in 2021, Travis has guided strategic investments in grocery redevelopment, housing, commercial corridors, and public spaces, prioritizing community ownership and long-term impact. His leadership reflects a powerful blend of private-sector, public-sector, and entrepreneurial experience.

Travis holds degrees from the University of North Florida and Jacksonville University and is a Harvard Cradle to Career Partnership Fellow. His work continues to advance equity, opportunity, and neighborhood-driven revitalization.

Monica Hernández is a seasoned finance executive and community leader serving as President of the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Vice President at Bank of America within Global Markets Operations. Originally from Cali, Colombia, Monica’s journey reflects resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to inclusion and opportunity.

Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in advancing diversity, equity, and professional development within the financial sector and across Northeast Florida. Under her leadership, the First Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has earned national recognition, including being named Small Chamber of the Year by the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Monica’s leadership has been widely recognized through honors including Jacksonville Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40,” “Woman of Influence,” and “Ultimate CEO.” Bilingual in Spanish and English, she remains a powerful advocate for economic empowerment and community advancement.

Melanie Patz is President and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida, leading collaborative efforts focused on youth opportunity, healthy communities, and financial security. With a data-driven and people-centered approach, Melanie guides initiatives addressing the needs of ALICE households across the region.

Previously, she served as Vice President of Community Investment and Impact at Baptist Health, launching transformative initiatives including school-based health centers and Blue Zones Project Jacksonville. Her leadership has earned widespread recognition for innovation and impact.

Melanie’s career reflects a deep commitment to cross-sector collaboration, community well-being, and long-term solutions that improve lives across Northeast Florida.

Kay Ehas is Chief Executive Officer of Groundwork Jacksonville, leading transformative efforts to restore waterways, create parks, and build the 30-mile Emerald Trail connecting Jacksonville’s urban core. Since joining the organization in 2017, Kay has turned vision into action, guiding adoption of the Emerald Trail Master Plan and opening the LaVilla Link in 2024.

Under her leadership, Groundwork Jacksonville has grown from a small nonprofit into a nationally recognized organization known for environmental equity, community engagement, and anti-displacement strategies. Her work integrates sustainability, economic opportunity, and inclusive placemaking.

Kay brings extensive experience from both public and private sectors and has been recognized as Jacksonville Business Journal’s “Woman of Influence” and Downtown Vision’s “Downtowner of the Year,” reflecting her lasting impact on Jacksonville’s future.

Jim Stallings is CEO of PS27 Ventures, where he invests in companies using artificial intelligence to solve complex business challenges. He has helped launch dozens of ventures across B2B software, FinTech, HealthTech, and ClimateTech, guided by his belief that innovation is essential to growth.

Previously, Jim served as a senior executive at IBM, leading multi-billion-dollar global business units and overseeing one of the world’s largest intellectual property portfolios. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and former Marine Corps Captain, Jim brings disciplined leadership and strategic vision to every role.

His work continues to shape entrepreneurial ecosystems and future-focused innovation.

Gregory Grant is an Entreprenologist and public-sector strategist advancing equitable economic development through entrepreneurship. As Administrator of the City of Jacksonville’s EBO/JSEB program, he leads initiatives expanding access to capital, contracts, education, and opportunity for small and emerging businesses.

With more than 25 years of experience across military, corporate, and entrepreneurial sectors, Gregory applies a systems-level approach to building inclusive ecosystems. His advocacy has helped secure millions in funding and advance policies supporting small-business growth.

A Doctoral Candidate at the University of North Florida, Gregory also serves as an adjunct professor and nationally sought thought leader. His work positions entrepreneurship as both an economic engine and a pathway to equity.

Eric K. Mann is President and CEO of the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, bringing more than 40 years of dedicated service to the YMCA movement. Since assuming his role in 2011, Eric has expanded the organization’s reach, deepened partnerships, and strengthened its mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Previously CEO of the YMCA of Pittsburgh, Eric made history as the first African American leader of Florida’s First Coast YMCA. His leadership extends beyond the YMCA through service as Chairman of the Jacksonville Civic Council and Board Chair of Brooks Rehabilitation Health System.

Eric holds a degree from Mars Hill University, where he also serves as a Trustee. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to equity, community wellness, and transformational leadership.

Donna Orender is a nationally respected executive, author, and change-maker whose career spans sports, media, and social impact. A former WNBA Commissioner and senior PGA TOUR executive, Donna has driven transformational growth across global platforms.

She is founder of Generation W, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women and girls, and Commissioner of the Upshot League, a professional women’s basketball league headquartered in Jacksonville. Her leadership has earned recognition among the most influential women in sports.

Donna’s work continues to inspire leadership, inclusion, and innovation across generations.

Darnell Smith serves as Market President for Florida Blue’s North Florida Region, overseeing financial growth, customer experience, and community engagement across 36 counties. His leadership emphasizes access to care, economic development, and regional collaboration.

Darnell serves on numerous civic and economic boards, including the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and LIFT JAX. A graduate of Florida State University and Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program, his career reflects a strong commitment to corporate responsibility and community impact.

Tinesha Tutt is a distinguished multi-state real estate broker licensed in Florida and Georgia, known for redefining how individuals and professionals navigate growth, transition, and opportunity through real estate. Her career is built on strategy, education, and service—helping buyers, sellers, and industry professionals move forward with clarity and confidence.

Recognized for her results-driven approach and exceptional client care, Tinesha has delivered standout performance across multiple markets while maintaining a strong commitment to integrity and community impact. Beyond production, she is widely respected for mentoring emerging agents, creating educational content, and leading collaborative spaces that prioritize systems, smart strategy, and sustainable success.

Tinesha’s mission is rooted in empowerment: helping people step into their next chapter—whether purchasing a home, scaling a business, or finding alignment in their professional journey—with the right tools, knowledge, and support.

Caleena Shirley served as Regional Director for North Florida at BBIF Capital, Inc., where she lead strategic efforts to expand access to capital, strengthen community partnerships, and deliver business-supportive services that drive sustainable small-business growth. Since the establishment of BBIF’s North Florida regional office in Jacksonville in 2019, her leadership has helped facilitate the deployment of more than $8 million in capital to local entrepreneurs and small businesses, strengthening the regional economic ecosystem.

With over 20 years of experience in community and economic development, Ms. Shirley brings deep expertise across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. Her career has focused on aligning capital, policy, and partnerships to advance equitable development outcomes and create lasting community impact.

In addition to her role at BBIF, Ms. Shirley is the Founder and President of Catalyst Planning and Development, LLC, a full-service urban planning and development firm. Through this work, she has played a key role in the development of 47 single-family homes, the acquisition of four multifamily properties, and the securing of more than $33 million in funding for affordable housing and community development initiatives.

Ms. Shirley is widely recognized for her commitment to civic leadership and service. She currently serves as a Commissioner on the Jacksonville Housing Authority Board of Directors, a Board Member of Florida Avenue Main Street, and National Vice President of the National Association of Black Women in Construction (NABWIC). Her prior leadership includes serving as President (2023–2024) of the National Association of Minority Contractors, Northeast Florida Chapter, an appointment to the City of Jacksonville Environmental Protection Board, and eight years on the Board of Directors for the Hannibal Square Community Land Trust in Winter Park, Florida.

Ms. Shirley holds a Cum Laude degree from Rollins College, where she majored in Civic Urbanism and Environmental Studies with a minor in Economic Development

Bishop Rudolph W. McKissick, Jr. is Senior Pastor of The Bethel Church, Florida’s oldest existing Baptist church, founded in 1838. Under his leadership, Bethel has grown to more than 6,000 active disciples and stands as a cornerstone of spiritual, cultural, and civic influence in Northeast Florida.

A respected preacher, scholar, and artist, Bishop McKissick serves as an adjunct professor at Virginia Union University, is the author of several books, and an accomplished musician with nationally acclaimed projects. His ministry bridges faith, scholarship, and cultural expression.

His leadership extends nationally through prestigious preaching appointments and service on prominent boards. Bishop McKissick holds multiple advanced degrees and honorary doctorates and remains deeply committed to unity, service, and excellence.