Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy welcomes second class

by George Jared ([email protected]) 115 views 

The 25 women who make up the new class of the Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy attended the first of six meetings on campus at Arkansas State University recently.

This is the second class of ADWLA. Andrea Allen, who co-chairs the leadership academy, said they are taking what they learned last year to better prepare female leaders.

“This year we aim to empower each participant to unlock their full leadership potential and use it to help elevate their communities in the Arkansas Delta. Our focus is on fostering confidence, goal setting and project management, self-care, negotiations, cultural competence and mentorship,” said Allen, executive director of the Delta Center for Economic Development.

“I want this year’s class to leave with a passion to carry on what we started last year. To make an impact in their communities and to continue to build on the network we have started,” added Cari White, ADWLA program coordinator.

In their two-day first meeting, ladies heard from community leaders about Jonesboro, received a welcome from A-State Chancellor Dr. Todd Shields, learned more about the program from Allen, and were encouraged about future leadership by Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch.

“ADWLA brings women together in supportive environments to help them strengthen their leadership skills, strategies, and networks for implementation in their communities,” said Jones-Branch, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication.

Those participating this year say they are looking forward to the challenge.

“I am ready to connect with a network of professional Southern women who are developing themselves and those around them sharing careers, goals, resources, and a love for the Delta,” said Dr. Veronica Guinn, etiquette and leadership trainer at her own company.

Allen said she hopes women in this group are inspired by the program and one another.

“It means a lot to be a part of this program that gives women the tools to be effective leaders in their communities. The fact that I was chosen shows that someone saw something in me that I am ready to share,” said Jessica Jefferson, a professional counselor at Marion Seventh Grade Academy.

Organizers say they hope this program continues to grow and expand the network of female leaders across the Delta.

“I see the program continuing to expand its reach across the Delta and reaching women leaders who yearn to become part of a talent pipeline to engage in collaborations across the region to support community growth and development,” added Jones-Branch.

“I want women in the Arkansas Delta to know that this program is designed to empower and equip them with the skills, confidence and connections to excel in leadership roles. It’s not just about professional development, it’s about building a community of women who can move the Delta region forward,” said Allen.

Sessions this year will continue in El Dorado, Batesville, Searcy, Blytheville and Little Rock.

The 2025 class includes the following women:

Craighead County
Rayna Kingston of Jonesboro is listener engagement specialist at KASU at Arkansas State University.
Jennifer Francher of Jonesboro is director of marketing and business development at Success Credit Union.
Veronica Guinn of Jonesboro is an etiquette and leadership consultant at her own company.
Nesha Guest of Brookland is a community development officer at Farmers and Merchants Bank.
Dr. Tameka Bailey of Jonesboro is an assistant professor of biological sciences at A-State.
Molly Alexander-Steele of Jonesboro is the executive director of Research Development at A-State.
Dr. Tiffany Mosley of Jonesboro is director of Institutional Integrity and Title IX at A-State.

Crittenden County
JaLeesa Shears of Marion is the CEO and owner of Knew Mindset, LLC.
Jessica Jefferson of Marion is a professional school counselor at Marion Seventh Grade Academy.
Beth Wilson of Marion is director of economic development for the City of Marion.

Cross County
Heather Baker of Wynne is the vice president of clinical services for the Southeast region of Arisa Health.
Alexis Gahr of Wynne is marketing and membership manager at Cross County Chamber of Commerce.

Greene County
Trēka Clark of Paragould is the division chair of business and technology and director of assessment and institutional research at Crowley’s Ridge College.

Independence County
Kendall Barron of Cave City is a clinical services manager at UAMS North Central.
Hannah St. John of Cave City is a special educator at Cedar Ridge School District.

Mississippi County
Tammy Winstead of Blytheville is the CEO of True Love Designs, LLC.
Stacie Malone of Wilson is the city clerk for the City of Wilson.

Phillips County
Angela Ward of Lexa is a registered nurse at UAMS.

Pulaski County
Adriana Fuentes Archila of Little Rock is vice president of community development for the Arkansas Capitol Corporation.
Linda Morgan of Jacksonville is a homeless shelter program manager for the Arkansas Department of Health.
Josette Boons of Little Rock is a sexual violence prevention and education program manager for the Arkansas Department of Health.
Phyllis Hodges of Little Rock is an author and fitness specialist at Carousel Fit 4 Life.
Tania Martinez of Little Rock is a business consultant for the Arkansas Small Business Technology Development Center.
Akissi Brooks of Sherwood is the owner of Ambitious Girl Avenue.
Tina Hunter of Little Rock is a grant writer and administrator at The Centers Arkansas.