Ability Plus, Inc., Huntsville Alabama is honored to welcome Vanessa Bueno as the new Director of Development.

Ability Plus, Inc. is a non-profit company which operates community-based residential homes, day and community services designed to offer more than care. Vanessa brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership, mental health services, program development, and organizational operations. Her experience and values closely align with Ability Plus’ mission to enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs, and the company is confident she will play a key role in advancing strategic goals and expanding impact across the communities served.

Vanessa is a native of Texas. Being raised in Mexico gave her a strong appreciation for culture, community, and connection. She is currently resident of Madison where she is grounded in learning and embracing this community.

In this role, Vanessa will be responsible for supporting and advancing fundraising, grant development, donor relations, and strategic partnership initiatives, helping to strengthen long-term sustainability and growth for Ability Plus. She will also collaborate closely with leadership, staff, and community partners to strengthen impact, expand funding opportunities, and share the powerful stories of the individuals and families served.

With proven experience in grant writing and management, community engagement, program leadership, compliance, and strategic planning, Vanessa is known for being a fast learner, strong problem-solver, and effective team leader. Her background in mental health, nonprofit operations, and stakeholder relations uniquely positions them to build meaningful partnerships while strengthening internal systems and accountability.

Ability Plus, Inc., a non-profit company which operates community-based residential homes, day and community services designed to offer more than care, is proud to welcome Brianna Watkins-Anthony, MPH, JD/LLM as the new Vice President of Development and Marketing. Brianna joins the executive leadership team with a deep commitment to mission-driven impact, strategic growth, and community partnership.

In her role, Brianna is responsible for advancing API’s fundraising, marketing, and donor engagement efforts to ensure long-term sustainability and expanded services. Her work directly fuels Ability Plus’ mission by strengthening relationships, growing philanthropic support, and building a strong development infrastructure. Success in this role is measured not only by revenue growth, but also by meaningful donor relationships, team collaboration, transparency, and long-term pipeline development.

Brianna brings a rare blend of legal expertise, public health insight, and nonprofit development experience. She is a Duke University School of Law graduate with a Juris Doctor and Master of Laws, holds a Master of Public Health from University of Alabama, Birmingham, and earned dual bachelor’s degrees from Vanderbilt University. Her professional background includes work in healthcare compliance, corporate governance, risk management, and public-interest advocacy, positioning her uniquely to support API’s growth and regulatory excellence. Brianna will also soon serve as Ability Plus, Inc.’s In-House Counsel, further strengthening the company’s internal capacity.

A native of Trinity, Alabama, Brianna is a graduate of Austin High School in Decatur, where she served as valedictorian of her class and leader in her community. She is relocating from Charlotte, North Carolina, and is excited to return home and invest her talents in the Huntsville community.

Ability Plus is thrilled to welcome Brianna Watkins-Anthony back to north Alabama and looks forward to the leadership, integrity, and vision she brings to the team.

AI Signal Research, Inc. (ASRI) is delighted to welcome Jennifer Edwards to the team as the Director of Contracts. Jennifer joins ASRI after more than 15 years of government service at the Army Contracting Command and the Missile Defense Agency.

Jennifer began her career in business management at Humana Inc. as a Medical Facility Manager responsible for construction completion, leasing, equipment procurement, staffing, and medical laboratory certifications. In 1989, she was employed by Northrop Grumman, Inc., where she spent 18 years rising through various program management positions to ultimately become an Earned Value Subject Matter Expert and Program Business Manager.

In 2010, Jennifer began her government service and contracting career by accepting a position as a Contracts Specialist with the Army Contracting Command – Redstone Arsenal. In 2013 after a promotion and as ACC-RSA’s first boarded warrant candidate, she received her first Limited Contracting Officer’s Warrant and truly began to hone her contracting skills and develop an affinity for contracting.

In 2015, Jennifer was competitively selected as a Procuring Contracting Officer with an Unlimited Warrant at the Missile Defense Agency. While at MDA she also served as a Senior Procurement Analyst on CT Staff, the Deputy Director of Contracts in Consolidated Support, the Deputy Director of Contracts for Sensors US, the Executive Officer to CT, and in October of 2021 became the Director of Contracts for Engineering (DE-K). In December of 2024, Jennifer was competitively selected as the Chief of the Contracting Office for Engineering and Agency Operations where she was responsible for all contracting functions for a portfolio valued at ~$10B and led a group of approximately 34 outstanding contracting professionals.

In September of 2025, Jennifer retired from Government Service and subsequently joined ASRI, Inc as Director of Contracts.

Jennifer graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She was a member of the Defense Acquisition Corps holding a Level 3 DAWIA Certification in Contracting. She has received numerous awards throughout 36-year career to include the Commander’s Award Department of the Army (2012) and MDA Awards for International Operations UAE FMS (2017), the Security Investigation Team (2023), and the Business Management Individual (2023).

Jennifer lives in Madison, AL with her husband, Eric F. Edwards, SES Retired. They have two sons, Austin and Carson.

AI Signal Research, Inc. (ASRI) is delighted to welcome Cedric McCrary to the team as the Talent Acquisition Manager, where he leads recruiting initiatives that support the company’s growth across technical and mission-critical programs. He is responsible for developing and executing talent strategies, strengthening hiring processes, and partnering with leadership to build high-performing teams aligned with ASRI’s mission and long-term objectives.

Cedric brings extensive experience in government contracting and aerospace recruiting, with a strong focus on building people-forward organizations. Throughout his career, he has led strategic hiring efforts, developed strong and sustainable talent pipelines, and implemented streamlined recruiting processes that support workforce growth, diversity, and employee retention.

He is passionate about creating inclusive, engaging workplace cultures and believes that strong organizations are built through authentic relationships, diverse perspectives, and intentional hiring practices. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Cedric works closely with hiring managers, HR partners, and executives to align talent strategies with business goals while enhancing both the candidate and employee experience.

Mary Shirley-Howell was recently appointed Executive Director of Aum Foundation in December 2025, ushering in a new era of strategic growth and organizational transformation. With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and organizational development, Mary is strengthening Aum Foundation’s infrastructure and expanding its capacity to serve under-resourced girls in the Huntsville community.

With a proven history of building strategic partnerships and advancing mission-driven growth through leadership roles at PRIDE Philanthropy, the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, and Auburn University, Mary is positioning Aum Foundation for lasting impact and deeper community engagement. Her strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and strong commitment to community impact make her a true “Mover & Shaker” in Huntsville’s nonprofit sector.

Chris Russell has joined as Partner and Senior Wealth Advisor with Avidian Wealth.
Chris helps high net worth clients with investment management, comprehensive planning around retirement and cash flow, taxes, estate and insurance considerations. In addition, he works with clients on strategies for charitable outreach. Chris is a Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP).

Chris graduated from Auburn with as B.S. in Business and he has worked in financial services for 21 years.

Avidian helps executives, entrepreneurs, and families make the most of the lives they’ve built. Avidian is headquartered in Houston, Texas. It manages more than $5 Billion in investments.

Chris was part of a small group that helped start the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville, serving as Founding Board Chair. Chris has been very active with the Community Foundation throughout its existence and as it has just crossed more than $100 Million in grant distributions. The organization had also previously recognized him with the Professional Advisor of the Year distinction.

Chris has been active in Leadership Greater Huntsville for nearly 25 years, including serving as Chair of the Board.

In 2016, he served as Chair in hosting the National Conference for the Association of Leadership Programs in Huntsville. Representatives from 38 states attended and it was the largest conference held to date at that point. He was honored with the Distinguished Leadership Award from the ALP.

Chris has also served as Honoree for the American Cancer Society’s Summer Light Gala. He was named as the Volunteer of the Year by the 6-state MidSouth Region of American Cancer Society after having led the largest fundraiser to date.

Chris is also on the HudsonAlpha Board of Directors and has served as a volunteer for the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade.

Chris is married to attorney Sharon Doviet. They have two sons, both married, and a new grandson just in the last month.

Devon Gately has joined AVIQ Huntsville as their I.T. Administrator, Home Automation Programmer, and Service Manager. A native of Huntsville, he brings extensive experience in networking, information technologies and customer service to the team. He recently completed his certification as a Control4 Home Automation Programmer.

Devon is a graduate of Calhoun Community College, where he majored in Information Technology with a minor in networking. As a self-styled renaissance man, his interests include technology, art, cooking, games, home improvement, reading, and raising his family. He has also worked more than a dozen years as a massage therapist.

AVIQ Huntsville is north Alabama’s leading destination for Hi-Fi, Home Theatre and Intelligent Home Automation, with an 11,000 square foot experiential showroom, located at 1833 University Drive.

BAILOR GROUP announces the promotion of Juliana Denes-Walker to Operations & Strategy Manager as the firm continues preparing for its 2026 strategic growth initiatives. In this role, she will be responsible for strengthening operational infrastructure, leading project management across consulting engagements, and ensuring delivery systems scale in alignment with the firm’s expanding national footprint.

“Juliana has become the bridge between vision, strategy, and execution inside our organization,” said Sonya Bailor, founder and CEO of BAILOR GROUP. “She takes the strategy and structured execution plans and builds systems that support our growth and ensures our expansion is backed by operational discipline. This promotion reflects her performance in the leadership capacity she continues to demonstrate. “

Denes-Walker joined BAILOR GROUP in 2024 and has played a key role in refining internal frameworks, supporting CRM optimization, formalizing SOPs, and driving cross-functional coordination across client engagements. She also supports operations for the Vistage North Alabama CEO peer advisory group, helping maintain execution standards behind executive-level programming.

As BAILOR GROUP expands its services to support both middle-market companies and small business leaders, Denes-Walker will focus on building scalable delivery models that strengthen consistency, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

Denes-Walker earned her Master’s degree in Professional Communication from The University of Alabama in Huntsville and currently serves as a Huntsville/Madison County Chamber Ambassador.

For more information about BAILOR GROUP and its growth initiatives, visit www.bailor.group

ABOUT BAILOR GROUP
BAILOR GROUP partners with middle-market companies and small business owners to design and execute intentional growth strategies that scale both the business and the leader through its proprietary BAILOR Method™.

BAILOR GROUP announces the addition of Amanda Hibdon as Growth Associate, supporting the firm’s continued expansion of its strategic consulting and small business coaching initiatives.

In this role, Hibdon will support front-end business development efforts, assist in coordinating executive-level meetings, and contribute to marketing and communications initiatives aligned with the firm’s Build to Scale™ platform. She will also support pipeline management and client engagement processes as BAILOR GROUP strengthens its infrastructure for scalable growth.

“We are intentional about building a team that understands both business performance and human behavior,” said Sonya Bailor, Founder & CEO of BAILOR GROUP. “Amanda brings a strong academic foundation in psychology and a natural ability to communicate with clarity and confidence. As we expand, having team members who understand behavioral dynamics is critical to serving growth-minded leaders well.”

Hibdon holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in School and Professional Counseling at the University of Central Oklahoma. She is also a member of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology.

Hibdon brings experience in client-facing coordination and operational support, strengthening BAILOR GROUP’s ability to engage and serve growth-minded business leaders.

As BAILOR GROUP continues to expand its services across the region and beyond, Hibdon will play a key role in strengthening outreach and engagement efforts that connect business leaders with strategic growth resources.

For more information about BAILOR GROUP and its growth initiatives, visit www.bailor.group

ABOUT BAILOR GROUP
BAILOR GROUP partners with middle-market companies and small business owners to design and execute intentional growth strategies that scale both the business and the leader through its proprietary BAILOR Method™.

BAILOR GROUP announces the appointment of Sonia Robinson, APR, as President, marking a pivotal expansion of the firm’s leadership structure as it prepares for its next phase of scalable growth.

Founded by growth strategist Sonya Bailor, BAILOR GROUP has spent the past five years advising middle-market companies and leadership teams navigating complexity, growth, and transition. As demand for the firm’s consulting and small business coaching services has increased, the organization has strengthened its operational infrastructure to deliver at scale while maintaining quality and measurable outcomes.

“This is more than a leadership announcement; this is a structural shift in how we grow,” said Sonya Bailor, Founder & CEO. “Robinson brings a track record of building teams and systems that work in scaling companies. That’s the leadership we want stewarding our brand and our growth.”

As President, Robinson will oversee program delivery, coach development, and operational performance, ensuring the firm’s proprietary BAILOR Method™ scales through structure and repeatable systems. Her leadership will support the company’s 2026 expansion through scalable delivery models designed to extend its consulting frameworks to a broader range of businesses nationwide.

Robinson brings extensive executive leadership and public relations expertise, having led multi-organization teams through growth, transition, and operational scale. She holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from the University of North Alabama and is Accredited in Public Relations (APR). In addition to her executive leadership, she is a coach, author of Pause: Sometimes Stillness Is the Strategy, and founder of Mamie Ruth & Co.

“I’m proud to be part of BAILOR GROUP,” Robinson said. “Our focus is clear: protect quality, protect outcomes, and help business leaders scale.”

ABOUT BAILOR GROUP
BAILOR GROUP partners with middle-market companies and small business owners to design and execute intentional growth strategies that scale both the business and the leader through its proprietary BAILOR Method™.

Baron Weather is proud to announce the promotion of Steve Bray to Vice President of Media, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting an evolving media landscape across both traditional and emerging platforms.

This leadership promotion, along with the promotion of Cherie Smyly to Director of Media Sales and Partnerships, reflects Baron’s continued focus on customer-driven strategy, modern weather communication, and solutions that help media organizations connect with audiences across all platforms.

“Steve and Cherie bring deep industry knowledge and a clear understanding of how weather communication is evolving,” said Bob Dreisewerd, CEO and President of Baron Weather. “Their leadership reflects our focus on listening to customers, adapting to new media realities, and delivering solutions that help organizations communicate weather clearly and effectively across every platform.”

As Vice President of Media, Steve will lead Baron’s media strategy across broadcast and digital platforms, sales, and guide product direction to ensure solutions align with real-world newsroom workflows, audience engagement needs, and evolving technologies.

Steve has played a key role in shaping Baron’s media product strategy, including the development of the Baron Lynx Weather Display System, content-generation tools, and user-education programs. He will continue to lead Baron’s Client Experience team, setting a high standard for service from implementation through on-air execution—an approach that has supported both broadcast and expanding private-sector customers.

With firsthand experience in media leadership, including roles in news management and meteorology, Steve brings a deep understanding of newsroom operations, deadlines, and communication challenges. In his new role, he will serve as a bridge between product development, media customers, client support, and emerging technologies while supporting strategic relationships at the station and corporate levels.

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Baron Weather is proud to announce the promotion of Cherie Smyly to Director of Media Sales and Partnerships, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting an evolving media landscape across both traditional and emerging platforms.

This leadership promotion, along with the promotion of Steve Bray to Vice President of Media, reflects Baron’s continued focus on customer-driven strategy, modern weather communication, and solutions that help media organizations connect with audiences across all platforms.

“Cherie and Steve bring deep industry knowledge and a clear understanding of how weather communication is evolving,” said Bob Dreisewerd, CEO and President of Baron Weather. “Their leadership reflects our focus on listening to customers, adapting to new media realities, and delivering solutions that help organizations communicate weather clearly and effectively across every platform.”

Smyly brings more than 30 years of experience in media and weather industry sales to her new role as Director of Media Sales and Partnerships. She has a long track record of building and sustaining partnerships with television stations, media groups, and local businesses.

Her experience includes leading large-scale client implementations such as group-wide weather systems and full radar deployments, with a strong focus on customer-centered, long-term partnerships. Cherie has also been an early advocate for the growing digital meteorologist and independent media market, helping identify new opportunities as weather delivery models continue to evolve.

In her expanded role, Cherie will lead Baron’s media sales and partnership strategy across traditional and digital channels, supporting revenue-driven weather solutions and continued market growth.

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Nick Hooten has joined Blaze Solutions as Chief Technology Officer. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and brings deep expertise across research and development, advanced sensor systems, microelectronics, and hardware security.

Over his career, Nick has led and grown high-performing engineering teams, managed complex R&D portfolios, and worked closely with customers to transition emerging technologies into deployable capabilities. At Blaze Solutions, he oversees technical strategy, innovation initiatives, and solution development supporting government and technology sector clients.

Bradley associate Kelsi A. Long has been named a recipient of the 18 Under 31 Young Alumni Awards by the University of Alabama National Alumni Association. The annual awards recognize young alumni who have made notable contributions to their industry, field or community. The 18 Under 31 Class of 2026 was recognized at a reception on January 30.

Ms. Long is a member of the firm’s Corporate & Securities Practice Group in the Huntsville office, where she focuses on corporate, securities, and energy transactions, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy matters. She advises clients on corporate formation, strategic acquisitions, securities law compliance, and supports complex due diligence and contract negotiations. Ms. Long has extensive experience drafting and negotiating key energy project agreements, including EPC, asset management, supply, and long-term maintenance agreements, supporting projects from development through operations and offtake.

Ms. Long earned her J.D. from the University of Alabama School of Law and her B.S., summa cum laude, from the University of Alabama. She also received her M.B.A. from the University of Alabama Manderson Graduate School of Business. Active in professional and community service, Ms. Long is a member of Leadership Alabama’s Alabama Leadership Initiative, Culverhouse Board of Visitors, and is a fellow of the Blackburn Institute, Class of 2019.

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Cahaba Federal Solutions is excited to welcome Nic Knighten as the company’s new Growth Strategy Lead. Nic brings a strong background in strategy and consulting, with a proven track record of shaping market analyses and developing successful go-to-market strategies aligned to federal customer priorities.  He is known for translating complex data into clear, executive-level insights through advanced analytics and visualization, and for partnering closely with technical and business leaders to drive growth. 

Nic graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alabama in Huntsville with dual degrees in Finance and Economics.  He currently lives in Huntsville, Alabama with his wife, Madison.

Cahaba Federal Solutions (Cahaba) would like to congratulate Tim Massey for assuming the role of Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). As CSO, Tim will lead the company’s strategic vision and planning efforts as the team continues its path to being the premier small business in the industry. He will focus on Cahaba’s long-term vision, growth, and alignment, emphasizing market strategies, initiatives to bolster the company’s capture and proposal processes, as well as lead partnerships with teammates and customer organizations.  

Tim graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering and later earned a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He has over 30 years of experience supporting the intelligence community and other DoD organizations. Tim’s leadership has been critical to the rapid growth of Cahaba and he will continue to play a key role in the company’s sustained success.

Tim lives near Huntsville, Alabama with his wife, Stephanie. They have a son who is a high school golf instructor with a mechanical engineering degree from Auburn University, and a daughter who is a medical doctor completing her residency in Wichita, Kansas.

Calhoun Community College is proud to announce the appointment of Jamie Glover as Director of Workforce Solutions. After serving as Interim Director for the past seven months and previously as Workforce Project Manager, Glover now steps into the permanent leadership role with more than two decades of public service experience and a commitment to workforce advancement across north Alabama.

Glover holds a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a minor in Business Administration from Athens State University. Her career is defined by 23 years of dedicated public service, including more than a decade within the Alabama Community College System. Central to her leadership philosophy is a deep passion for guiding non-traditional students back into the workforce. She operates under the personal motto, “slow progress is better than no progress.”

That commitment was shaped during her 12 years with the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, where she managed the Work Release Program. She later expanded her impact in Adult Education, providing guidance and encouragement to help non-traditional students succeed.

As Calhoun’s Workforce Solutions (CWS) director, Glover serves as the administrative officer responsible for external engagement to assess and promote the College’s workforce development programs, services, and capabilities at the local, state, and national levels. In this role, she supervises the functional units within CWS and Community Education programs, oversees organizational development and resource planning, and ensures the College remains responsive to the evolving needs of business and industry.

Glover works closely with the College’s academic staff to develop curricula aligned with workforce demands and to create accessible pathways for students. Her vision includes a straight-to-work track for individuals seeking immediate employment, as well as a bridge between non-credit and credit-bearing programs for those pursuing long-term career growth. By leveraging her expertise in curriculum development, she aims to ensure every student has a clear and attainable path to success.

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CFD Research is proud to announce the promotion of Andrew Bellocchio to Director in the Aerospace and Defense Solutions Division, where he will lead the organization’s Aviation portfolio. Andy joined CFD Research Corporation as a Senior Principal Engineer and has steadily advanced into leadership roles supporting the growth and technical direction of the division.

Andy brings a distinguished background that combines operational leadership with deep technical expertise. With a 28-year career as a United States Army aviator, he developed extensive experience in mission operations and leadership. Prior to joining CFD Research, he served as an Associate Professor of Aeronautical Engineering at the U.S. Military Academy, where he helped develop the next generation of engineers and led research initiatives, including contributions to Future Vertical Lift projects.

CFD Research is proud to announce the promotion of Dr. Kapil Pant to Chief Technology Officer. In this role, Dr. Pant leads the company’s technology strategy, product direction, and Internal Research and Development (IRAD) program, helping align innovative investments with customer needs and mission-focused solutions.

Dr. Pant joined CFD Research Corporation in 2000 and has played a key role in advancing technologies across biodefense, biodiagnostics, drug delivery systems, and computational modeling of particle and biological transport. Previously serving as Executive Vice President of the Biomedical, Energy, and Materials Division, he led multidisciplinary teams translating research into practical applications that support customer missions.

An author of more than 75 journal and conference publications and an inventor on over 15 patents, Dr. Pant holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Washington State University.

CFD Research is proud to announce the promotion of Steven Roth to Director. He has progressed through increasing levels of leadership at CFD Research, supporting the development of advanced propulsion and hypersonic test capabilities and now expanding his focus to include strategic growth, customer engagement, and technology transition.

With a decade of experience in the design, operation, and testing of high-enthalpy wind tunnels and propulsion test hardware, Steven has been a foundational technical contributor to the Hypersonic Synthetic Environment Test Tunnel (HySETT) program, focused on generating synthetic air for hypersonic ground test facilities through novel methodologies. In prior leadership roles, he led multidisciplinary teams delivering ground test hardware and test campaign data while advancing technical execution for government customers. In his new role, he leverages deep domain expertise to shape new opportunities, align advanced test capabilities with operational needs, and accelerate the delivery of high-speed and hypersonic technologies to the warfighter.

Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, specializing in thermal-fluid sciences and combustion.

CFD Research is proud to announce the promotion of Keith Sedberry to Senior Director of Program Management. In this role, Keith leads the Program Management Office (PMO), overseeing program execution for many of the company’s largest strategic contracts and managing a team of program managers, schedulers, and analysts focused on delivering efficient, high-value solutions across complex programs including Next Generation Jammer (Low Band), HySETT, Hypersonic TPS Program Support, HyperLINK, and the Weather Impacts Toolkit (WIT).

Keith began his career at Dynetics, supporting the development and ground testing of missile systems such as the TOW BB and Hellfire II MOD K programs. Since joining CFD Research Corporation, he has progressed from engineer to manager and principal investigator, leading technical teams in areas including non-lethal weapon exposure research, human surrogate development for blast and ballistic evaluation, and advanced hearing protection technologies. As a principal investigator, Keith led the development and commercialization of a patented passive hearing protector device that transitioned to industry and is now widely available through commercial retailers.

Keith holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from New Mexico State University. He has authored more than 10 peer-reviewed publications and is an inventor on two issued patents.

Tenya Green is the Human Resources Administration Manager for the City of Huntsville, with over 28 years of dedicated service in the municipal government. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management from Oakwood College, now Oakwood University, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Faulkner University. Additionally, she achieved the designation of Alabama Certified Human Resource Professional from the Alabama Association of Public Personnel Administrators.

In her role, Green supports the City’s workforce of over 2,700 employees by leading her team in the areas of recruitment, retention, training, employee relations, compensation and policies and procedures development to ensure efficiency, consistency and accountability across various City departments.

Green’s professional and collaborative leadership ensures that the City of Huntsville attracts and retains a dedicated public service workforce. Her commitment to the City’s mission helps to foster its growth and success.

Lisa Bollinger joins the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville as the new Events and Program Specialist. 

Lisa is no stranger to nonprofits in the Huntsville area; she previously worked at Broadway Theatre League and Arts Huntsville in various event and operations roles. Her extensive event management experience also includes volunteering as Director of the Huntsville St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

At the Community Foundation, Lisa looks forward to being part of a team that helps charitable dollars make the greatest impact in our community.

The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville is pleased to announce the promotion of Preeti Francis to the position of Vice President of Administration.

Preeti has been an integral part of the Foundation since 2018, advancing through multiple roles including Financial Coordinator, Operations Manager, and Director of Administration.

With more than 20 years of experience spanning nonprofit administration, education, healthcare, and volunteer leadership, Preeti Francis brings a collaborative, results-driven approach to her work. She looks forward to continue strengthening internal operations while supporting the philanthropic needs of the Greater Huntsville community in her new role.

The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville is pleased to announce the promotion of Riley Fraser to the position of Manager of Financial Administration.

Riley has been with the Community Foundation since June 2024 after graduating from Samford University and relocating to Huntsville.

He enjoys taking advantage of all the city has to offer, including sporting events, hiking, and visiting local museums.

The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville is pleased to announce the promotion of Ann Kvach to the position of Vice President of Community Impact.

Ann began her Community Foundation career as the Event Coordinator and most recently served as Director of Programs. In her new role, Ann will assume responsibilities for corporate relationships in addition to continue overseeing the Community Foundation’s grant and scholarship programs as well as nonprofit relations.

Ann shared, “I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my role in carrying out the Community Foundation’s mission of supporting donors in mobilizing generosity to improve the quality of life in our community. The founder of my alma mater established the belief in being a force for good in the world, and I am honored that I get to be part of that work in our area.”

Ann holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Trinity Washington University. Prior to joining the Community Foundation in 2017, Ann worked at other nonprofit organizations in Seattle and Knoxville, as an educator in the Washington, DC area, and took a hiatus to stay at home with her children and serve as a community volunteer.

Walter Hough exemplifies the very definition of a Huntsville “Mover & Shaker.” As Vice President of Algorithmic Warfare at Davidson Technologies, Mr. Hough is shaping the future of national defense while accelerating Huntsville’s role as a global epicenter for advanced modeling, simulation, AI/ML, and next-generation mission software. His leadership blends operational excellence, technical innovation, and community investment driving both economic growth and workforce development across north Alabama.

Hough leads a complex technical portfolio, 60-person organization, delivering advanced algorithmic warfare capabilities that directly support missile defense, space operations, and ground systems. He also led the development of Davidson’s quantum computing strategy, including the deployment of an on-premise D-Wave system and the creation of collaborative research partnerships helping anchor emerging quantum capabilities in the Huntsville region.

Hough is deeply committed to people and culture, an essential hallmark of Huntsville’s growth story. He has:
• Co-founded internal leadership development initiatives that train future program managers
• Launched internal innovation challenges that incentivize entrepreneurship and IP creation
• Served as an active mentor within corporate mentorship programs
• Championed workforce development aligned with Huntsville’s expanding technical talent base

His leadership philosophy emphasizes trust, accountability, and professional growth creating teams that perform at a high level while remaining deeply engaged.

Additionally, Hough’s impact extends well beyond the office. He is an active leader in Huntsville’s civic and professional community, including:
• Leadership Greater Huntsville (Legacy Member; Management Academy and Connect graduate)
• AFCEA Huntsville Chapter, serving as Vice President of Scholarships, directly supporting STEM education and future defense professionals
• InsideOut Studios, where he served as Board President, contributing to community arts and engagement

These efforts reflect a sustained commitment to strengthening Huntsville as both a professional hub and a vibrant community.

Walter is not only shaping advanced defense capabilities, he is shaping Huntsville’s future. Through strategic leadership, technical innovation, workforce development, and community service, he has become a catalyst for growth, influence, and excellence across north Alabama. For his measurable impact, visionary leadership, and dedication to the Huntsville community, Walter Hough is highly deserving of recognition as a Huntsville, Alabama Mover & Shaker.

DCS’s Karthik Dhagam has been promoted to Operations Branch Manager of Active Protection Systems (APS). With 15 years of systems engineering experience and a diversified career portfolio working across multiple industries, he will leverage his technical expertise and customer management skills to support the sustainment, development, testing, and integration of APS and related software for the U.S. Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center. In Karthik’s new role, he will focus on strengthening ongoing sustainment efforts while driving new business opportunities for DCS.

DCS is pleased to announce that Shaun O’Leary has joined the Business Development team as a Capture Manager. With 12 plus years at DCS, Shaun has experience as a Program Manager, Project Manager, Subject Matter Expert in mission planning and software testing.  Prior to joining DCS, he spent more than 21 years in the United States Air Force in multiple aviation positions.

DCS is pleased to announce the promotion of Hannelore Sammons-Ginger to Contracts Administrator for the Air & Space Technology Sector and the Strategic Solutions Program Management Office. This promotion reflects her outstanding performance, strategic problem-solving capabilities, and the significant value she continues to bring to the organization.

With decades of experience in business technology and information systems, Hannelore has quickly established herself as a high-impact contributor since joining DCS in 2023. Her forward-leaning perspective ‒ particularly in agile contracting, cybersecurity, and the emerging role of generative AI in acquisition ‒ positions her as a key asset in advancing DCS’s strategic priorities. Hannelore continues to expand her expertise in next generation contracting practices, technology integration, and other emerging capabilities that will position DCS for long-term success.

deciBel Research is pleased to announce the promotion of Morgan Bray to Executive Director, where she will provide strategic leadership and executive-level support for the company’s Huntsville operations.

Ms. Bray joined the deciBel Research team in 2021 bringing more than 12 years of experience in program management and technical leadership, with a focus on missile system programs and the delivery of complex, mission-critical solutions. She has an established record of leadership, a strong commitment to organizational growth, and a consistent focus on quality and accountability. Her ability to lead complex programs while fostering collaboration and innovation has had a measurable impact across the organization.

As Executive Director, Ms. Bray will continue to lead deciBel Research’s critical and growth programs. Her expanded responsibilities reflect the company’s confidence in her vision and ability to guide high-impact teams and initiatives.

“Ms. Bray’s promotion is a testament to her proven leadership and dedication to our mission,” said Jenny Neill, Senior Vice President, Huntsville Operations. “She consistently delivers results while embodying our values, and we look forward to her continued impact on our Huntsville programs.”

Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy is thrilled to welcome Olivia Purdy to the team as its full-time Development Coordinator. Olivia Purdy holds a B.A. in Communication Arts from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and brings over four years of experience building community relationships. Olivia is also a part of the cohort for Momentum’s second Upward leadership class.

In her free time away from the theater, Olivia enjoys practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her Shih Tzu. Her weekends are spent tracking down a good book, hanging out with family, and exploring the culinary scene.

Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy is thrilled to welcome Kedrick Scribner to the team as its full-time Access & Community Engagement Coordinator.

Kedrick earned an associate’s degree from the Community College of Baltimore County in 2020 and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship at Alabama A&M University.

In his role at Fantasy Playhouse, Kedrick focuses on growing strategic partnerships within local schools and the broader community. Driven by a mission to solve design flaws in arts access, he is dedicated to expanding scholarship opportunities and accommodations for underserved youth. His primary goal is to build sustainable pathways that allow talented children to overcome barriers and enter the world of performance.

Kedrick’s professional drive is deeply rooted in his personal experience as a singer and actor. He has appeared as Peter Quince in the FPCTA and AAMU co-production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the title character in Anansi the Spider, and as a shepherd in Opera Huntsville’s production of Amahl and the Night Visitors. Beyond the stage, Kedrick brings a global perspective to his work through his family’s foundation in Lagos, Nigeria. The foundation provides food and healthcare to orphans of fallen law enforcement officers and operates a vocational center offering free training in computer literacy, tailoring, and jewelry and bag making.

First Horizon Bank (NYSE: FHN or “First Horizon”) is pleased to announce that David King has joined its Huntsville Advisory Board.  David is currently the Chairman of the Board of Applied Aerospace & Defense.

David is a board member, advisor, and consultant to multiple companies and organizations across the aerospace, defense, innovation, and engineering sectors. He brings deep experience in corporate governance, strategic oversight, risk management, and executive leadership, informed by nearly four decades in senior operating roles.

He currently serves on the boards of several private companies, Alabama Innovation Corporation, and advises academic and research institutions including the University of South Carolina College of Engineering and the UAH President’s Advisory Council.

Prior to his board service, David served as President of the Dynetics Group at Leidos and as CEO of Dynetics, where he led the company through significant growth and its acquisition by Leidos. Earlier in his career, he spent 25 years with NASA, retiring as Center Director of the Marshall Space Flight Center, and is a former Space Shuttle Launch Director.

King is an AIAA Fellow and recipient of numerous national honors for leadership and service, including receiving the National Space Trophy for his leadership following the Columbia Accident. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of South Carolina and a master’s degree in business administration.

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Architecture and engineering firm Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) has promoted several healthcare team members to new leadership positions across its footprint, including in Birmingham, Ala. Nathan Arceneaux will serve as Healthcare Regional Practice Leader for Alabama.

Led by Vice President of Healthcare Steve Alby, AIA, GMC’s national healthcare practice aims to design patient-centered, cost-effective spaces for accessible and efficient care delivery.

“We have seen significant growth of our healthcare practice over the past several years,” Alby said. “These changes are about ensuring we have the right leadership in place to support that growth, strengthen client relationships and continue delivering thoughtful, high-quality solutions. It’s a proactive step that allows us to serve our clients more effectively as their needs evolve.”

Arceneaux has more than a decade of architectural design experience with a focus on healthcare planning and has contributed to some of the largest healthcare projects in the Southeast. He was also recently named Top 40 Under 40 by the Birmingham Business Journal. He has been instrumental in several notable projects, most recently including Baptist Health’s Medical Center East Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Expansion and the Southeast Health Freestanding Emergency Department.

For GMC, healthcare design has long been an essential aspect of the built environment. With this team’s fresh perspective and innovative ideas, it has and will continue to have a significant impact on healthcare design.

About Goodwyn Mills Cawood
Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) is one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast. Whether designing schools, parks, hospitals and other commercial developments, or providing clean water, safe streets and restoring resilient environments, GMC takes great pride in serving our communities through the transformative work we do. Every project is guided by the foundational concept that communities are built by people, not companies, and we strive to serve our communities with quality, integrity, creativity and care. One of the Southeast’s most comprehensive multi-disciplined firms, GMC is equipped to provide all the services associated with architecture; interior design; civil engineering; environmental services; landscape architecture; planning; transportation engineering; geotechnical engineering; mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering; surveying; and disaster recovery. recovery.

Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC), a local architecture and engineering firm, is proud to welcome Brian Blanks, PE, PLS, as a project manager for its transportation discipline. Blanks’s expertise further strengthens the firm’s expanding capabilities and underscores its commitment to advancing communities through transportation and roadway engineering in the Huntsville area and beyond.

Blanks brings over three decades of experience in the design, analysis and later management of roadway systems. He is known for delivering high-quality projects on time while prioritizing public safety and high client satisfaction.

His previous expertise led him to develop site plans and roadway access plans in Morgan County, train young engineers and establish project milestone schedules. Blanks’s career is based on the average person’s day-to-day. He has been part of notable projects such as bridges, public buildings, renovation projects, sports fields and much more.

“Brian’s addition to our Huntsville office is an exciting and valuable asset to the team,” Charles Wright, Regional Vice President of Transportation, said. “He brings the depth of experience we need while keeping clients at the center of his work. His approach reflects GMC’s commitment to building communities and strengthening the relationships that make them thrive.”

Blanks is an Alabama native through and through, originally from Albertville, gaining his education from the University of Alabama. He has worked in Morgan County since 1997, and his knowledge of the surrounding area allows him to bring localized information to the city while providing technical excellence in the transportation engineering industry.

About Goodwyn Mills Cawood
Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) is one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast. Whether designing schools, parks, hospitals and other commercial developments, or providing clean water, safe streets and restoring resilient environments, GMC takes great pride in serving our communities through the transformative work we do. Every project is guided by the foundational concept that communities are built by people, not companies, and we strive to serve our communities with quality, integrity, creativity and care. One of the Southeast’s most comprehensive multi-disciplined firms, GMC is equipped to provide all the services associated with architecture; interior design; civil engineering; environmental services; landscape architecture; planning; transportation engineering; geotechnical engineering; mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering; surveying; and disaster recovery.

Rob Gray, visionary CEO of the Heart of the Valley YMCA, has been appointed to the Huntsville Committee of 100, joining a distinguished group of civic and business leaders committed to shaping the future of Huntsville and Madison County.

Gray is new to the Huntsville community and brings a forward-looking perspective grounded in nonprofit leadership, community wellness, and inclusive economic impact. As CEO of the Heart of the Valley YMCA, he is championing initiatives that strengthen workforce readiness, expand access to health and childcare services, and foster long-term quality of life in this community, priorities that closely align with the Committee of 100’s mission.

The Committee of 100 plays a critical role in local civic leadership, engaging in key education and municipal elections, workforce development efforts, governance training, and strategic initiatives that support sustainable regional growth.

“I’m honored to join the Committee of 100 and to learn from leaders who are deeply invested in this community,” said Gray. “Huntsville is at a pivotal moment, and I look forward to contributing to the conversations and work that will enhance opportunity and well-being for all.”

Gray’s appointment comes as the Committee of 100 enters a pivotal year focused on elections, governance, workforce initiatives, and member-driven civic engagement across Huntsville and Madison County.

About the Heart of the Valley YMCA
The Heart of the Valley YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving families across North Alabama, the YMCA provides inclusive programs, services, and partnerships that empower individuals and build a healthier, more connected community.

The Heart of the Valley YMCA is pleased to announce the appointment of Barry Martin as its new Vice President of Operations and Asset Management, bringing extensive nonprofit and YMCA experience to the role.

Martin will provide executive oversight of YMCA branch operations to ensure a high-quality member experience, safety, and program excellence. His responsibilities include oversight of all YMCA facilities, equipment, and grounds, as well as leading facility assessments, renovations, expansions, and new construction projects. He will also guide program development and schedules to meet evolving community needs and strengthen partnerships that advance the YMCA’s mission.

“Barry brings an exceptional depth of experience in YMCA operations, facilities leadership, and community engagement,” said Rob Gray, President and CEO of the Heart of the Valley YMCA. “His strategic mindset and passion for mission-driven work will be instrumental as we continue to grow our impact, invest in our facilities, and ensure every member has a safe, welcoming, and transformative YMCA experience.”

Martin most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of the Mahaska County YMCA, where he led the opening and operation of multiple YMCA facilities. His career includes leadership roles across state and local YMCAs and other nonprofit organizations, with experience in operations, facilities management, program development, and community relations.

“I’m honored to join the Heart of the Valley YMCA and excited to support its mission,” Martin said. “I look forward to working with staff, volunteers, and community partners to strengthen the Y’s impact across North Alabama.”

About the Heart of the Valley YMCA
The Heart of the Valley YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving families across North Alabama, the YMCA provides inclusive programs, services, and partnerships that empower individuals and build a healthier, more connected community.

The Heart of the Valley YMCA is pleased to announce the addition of Kamilah Torres as Director of Grants and Impact Funding, bringing more than 25 years of experience in healthcare, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership to the organization.

In her new role, Kamilah will lead grant strategy and funding development efforts that expand program access and strengthen community impact across North Alabama. Her career has included frontline service, program leadership, and long-term funding initiatives rooted in equity, access, and sustainable community-centered solutions.

“Kamilah’s experience and passion for creating meaningful, measurable impact make her a tremendous addition to our team,” said Rob Gray, President & CEO of the Heart of the Valley YMCA. “Her leadership will help us grow the resources needed to serve more youth, families, and individuals throughout our community, ensuring the Y remains a place where everyone can thrive.”

Kamilah is known for translating vision into sustainable outcomes, building partnerships, and securing resources that help organizations strengthen and expand their reach. She is honored to support the Y’s mission and contribute to the growth of opportunities for youth, families, and the broader community.

Outside of her professional work, Kamiliah is a proud mother and grandmother who enjoys family time, storytelling, traveling, and community connection.

“I believe in the power of people to heal, grow, and lead—and I’m honored to be part of an organization like the YMCA that lives that out daily through connection, opportunity, and impact,” said Kamilah.

Her leadership will help advance the YMCA’s mission as the Y continues to expand opportunities and strengthen its impact across North Alabama.

About the Heart of the Valley YMCA
The Heart of the Valley YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving families across North Alabama, the YMCA provides inclusive programs, services, and partnerships that empower individuals and build a healthier, more connected community.

Autumn Lennartz is the Chief of Staff at Huntsville Botanical Garden. In her role, she supports the Leadership Team and organization-wide initiatives, serves as a liaison to the Board of Directors, and supports the Garden’s communication efforts. 

Autumn holds a B.S. in anthropology from the University of Tennessee and an M.A. in biological anthropology from Texas State University.  She is a member of the North Alabama Chapter of the Project Management Institute and Professional Development Director of Huntsville Rotaract, and is passionate about science communication and informal education. She enjoys leveraging her background to support projects that inspire curiosity, engagement, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. 

Laura McPhail, APR, is the Vice President of Communication and Guest Experience at Huntsville Botanical Garden. In this role, she uses her expertise in strategic public relations and marketing planning to reach diverse audiences of internal and external stakeholders to share the Garden’s mission of connecting people to plants. She also oversees all operations related to admissions, special events, and the gift shop.

Laura received her M.A. in Public Relations from Immaculata University and her B.A. in Communication from Mississippi State University. In addition to several local, state, and regional awards, Laura earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) in 2018 and was recognized with a Senior Practitioner Award from the Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF) in 2019. She earned an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from the Harvard Kennedy School in 2025. 

With the start of the new year and a big year of events scheduled for 2026, the Huntsville Sports Commission names Avery Fancher as Communications Coordinator.

A 2024 graduate of The University of Alabama where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Culverhouse College of Business, Fancher graduated magna cum laude and was recognized on the President’s and Dean’s Lists throughout her undergraduate career.

“I am excited to join Huntsville Sports Commission, where I can merge my passion for creativity and community engagement while contributing to the continued success of sports in my hometown,” Fancher said.

Fancher gained hands-on marketing experience through internships and professional roles across both nonprofit and private sectors. During her junior spring semester, she interned with Hope for Autumn Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by childhood cancer. She assisted with event planning, nonprofit communications, and social media strategy—an experience that sparked her passion for nonprofit work. She also completed a summer marketing internship with Moseley Technical Services, further strengthening her marketing and communications skill set.

Following graduation, Fancher worked as Office Manager for Huntsville Nutrition Collective, where she enhanced her expertise in communications, social media management, and community outreach.

A Huntsville native, Fancher has a deep appreciation for the city, its continued growth, and the opportunities it provides.  She can be contacted at [email protected].

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, has appointed Ashley Engles-Ross, IOM, Vice President of Small Business at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, to the Winter Board of Regents. As a member of this Board, Engles-Ross will implement the policies created by Institute’s National Board of Trustees.

“A strong Board of Regents is essential to Institute’s success,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, vice president of Institute for Organization Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “These volunteers drive site attendance, provide recommendations for program improvement, and serve as an on-site resource for Institute participants.”

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates.

Institute’s four Boards of Regents serve on behalf of the National Board of Trustees. Each Board of Regents is responsible for recruitment, retention, and marketing of the program nationwide. Each regent is an Institute graduate nominated by their peers.

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations.

Elijah Reuter, CPA, is a rising financial leader at InSight Strategic Solutions, where he plays a key role in helping business owners gain clarity and confidence in their financial decisions. With a strong background in accounting advisory, automation, and multi-entity reporting, Elijah brings both precision and forward-thinking insight to his work. He is widely respected for his analytical mindset, collaborative approach, and ability to elevate the financial operations of growing organizations.

Maynard Nexsen recently promoted Andrew Donovan to a Shareholder of the Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions practice group.

Andrew advises companies on a range of business matters, including corporate governance and commercial transactions, with a particular emphasis on mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures. He also advises clients on entity formation, restructuring strategies, and private equity and debt financings, among other areas of general corporate law.

Andrew received his J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of Kentucky College of Law. He holds a B.S. in history and political science from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and was a member of the men’s varsity basketball team.

Maynard Nexsen is a nationally ranked, full-service law firm with more than 600 attorneys and 31 locations nationwide, representing public and private clients across diverse industries. The firm fosters entrepreneurial growth and delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions to support client success.

Maynard Nexsen recently promoted Tae-Seung Lee to a Shareholder of the Private Markets practice group.

Tae is part of Maynard Nexsen’s Securities Regulation & Corporate Finance Practice. He focuses his practice on corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, venture capital, private equity, and finance. His experience includes working on both the buy-side and sale sides of corporate transactions, early-stage financing, and counseling clients on corporate matters. Tae also works closely with multinational clients to provide business strategy and support, solve cross-border transaction needs, and achieve business objectives in the US.

Prior to joining Maynard, Tae worked at a national firm in Atlanta, at Morgan Stanley in Northeast Asia, and served as an Interpretation Officer at US-Korea Joint Staff Security Talks.

He obtained his B.A. in Economics from Duke University and his J.D. from Emory University School of Law. While at Emory, Tae was involved with Emory Business and Finance Society and the Asian American Law Student Association. Tae speaks fluent Korean and conversational French.

Maynard Nexsen is a nationally ranked, full-service law firm with more than 600 attorneys and 31 locations nationwide, representing public and private clients across diverse industries. The firm fosters entrepreneurial growth and delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions to support client success.

Maynard Nexsen recently promoted Zach Mardis to a Shareholder of the Litigation practice group. He focuses his practice on complex and business litigation.

Zach holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Administration and Business from Samford University, where he graduated cum laude. He went on to obtain his J.D. from Samford University, Cumberland School of Law, where he graduated magna cum laude. While at Cumberland, Zach served as Class President of the Student Bar Association and Copy Editor of the Cumberland Law Review, was a member of the Henry Upson Sims Moot Court Board, and participated on the National Moot Court Competition Team.

Maynard Nexsen is a nationally ranked, full-service law firm with more than 600 attorneys and 31 locations nationwide, representing public and private clients across diverse industries. The firm fosters entrepreneurial growth and delivers innovative, high-quality legal solutions to support client success.

Merit Bank is proud to announce the addition of Helen Danley as Head Teller, where she will serve as the primary contact for frontline banking and teller transactions. With extensive branch training and a strong background in teller operations and leadership, Helen brings valuable knowledge, hands-on expertise, and a passion for client service to her role. She will play a key role in supporting both clients and team members, ensuring seamless day-to-day performance. Known for her professionalism and approachable nature, Helen thrives on building meaningful connections and supporting the bank’s client-first mission.

Merit Bank welcomes Allison Helfert as its new Branch Support Specialist. In this dynamic role, Allison provides vital support across the branch, jumping in with teller coverage, managing reports and projects, prioritizing first-class client service, and keeping things running smoothly throughout the day. With a strong background in financial services and a reputation for being dependable and detail-oriented, she brings both skill and enthusiasm to the team. Her collaborative spirit draws people in and makes it a fun place to work – and do business!  She promotes teamwork and strengthens the branch team, which is felt across the entire bank.

Merit Bank welcomes Justice Mealey to the team as Universal Banker.  In this vital role, she serves as a cross-trained frontline banker, equipped to handle a wide range of branch needs – from the teller line to the desk – ensuring a more personal, efficient experience for clients. With a strong foundation in branch and relationship banking right here in the Huntsville community, Justice brings a strong expertise in branch operations, and a well-established reputation for being a client favorite.  Her friendly personality is contagious and  Merit Bank is confident that she will continue to make a positive impact on her colleagues and those around her each day.

Merit Bank is pleased to announce Courtney Nunley has joined the team as Mortgage Operations Analyst.  In this role, Courtney will manage the mortgage process from beginning to end, ensuring efficiency and a positively memorable experience for clients. Courtney’s professional background spans across banking operations and client service, small business leadership, and mortgage operations, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of both client needs and operational excellence. Her diverse experience allows her to approach each interaction with insight, efficiency, and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional service. Merit Bank is thrilled to welcome Courtney to the team and look forward to the insight and dedication she will bring to the mortgage division and the clients the team proudly serves.

Fred Diaz serves as the Army and Missile Defense Division Chief Engineer at Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) and plays a key role on the executive leadership team, where he shapes the Division’s long-term technical direction and advances strategic capabilities that deliver market-leading solutions. He identifies and prioritizes Independent Research and Development projects, drives critical capability development, and leads technical training initiatives. Fred also provides strategic technical leadership to more than 550 engineers across the Division.

In addition to his Division Chief Engineer responsibilities, Fred supports Missile Defense Agency government leadership as the lead Systems Engineer and Deputy for GM Radar Integration, where he advances fielded radar capabilities for the MDA customer.

Juan (JC) Garcia serves as the Chief Engineer for the Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) Missile Defense Services Business Unit. In this role, he leads the Business Unit’s technical strategy and drives resolution of complex technical issues across the portfolio. He also serves as the primary point of contact for identifying, advancing, and maintaining insight into the Business Unit’s differentiated capabilities.

In addition to his Chief Engineer responsibilities, JC supports the Missile Defense Agency as a Principal Engineer and Analyst to the Director for Engineering, the Director of Ground-Based Interceptor Launch Support Systems, and the Director for Ground Systems, where he manages development of the In-Flight Interceptor Communications Data Terminal.

Neighborhood Concepts, Inc. (NCI) has named John-Michael Marlin as its new loan fund director, a move expected to strengthen small business lending and job growth across the TARCOG region.

The position was created through a $252,180 grant awarded to TARCOG by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) as part of its READY Grants to Grow initiative. The funding will be used over three years to establish new loan fund director and outreach specialist positions to improve the delivery of small business loans through NCI, which administers TARCOG’s Revolving Loan Fund through the North Alabama Revolving Loan Fund, LLC.

In December, ARC awarded more than $12.6 million to 80 projects across 12 Appalachian states. TARCOG was one of five Alabama organizations selected, with more than $11.6 million distributed through the READY Grants to Grow program.

“This funding is truly a game changer for our region,” said Mary Ellen Judah, executive director of Neighborhood Concepts, Inc. “Adding a dedicated loan fund director allows us to expand services and better support local entrepreneurs.”

Marlin brings more than six years of experience as director of lending for the Renaissance Community Loan Fund, Inc., where he oversaw all commercial lending operations serving clients in north Mississippi and Alabama. He previously served as a community outreach coordinator with the organization.

“I’m excited to lead the loan fund and work with TARCOG and its regional partners to expand access to capital and support local entrepreneurs,” Marlin said. “I believe in what’s possible when people have access to both affordable capital and the knowledge to use it well.”

Congratulations to Ally Casteel! On January 1, she was promoted to Vice President of Human Resources at Offset Strategic Services. She’s been a part of the company’s ‘OSSome’ family for almost five years and has more than 25 years of experience in government contracting environments. In this executive role, she provides strategic leadership across human resources, organizational governance, and compliance, working closely with senior leadership to align people, policies, and practices with OSS’s mission and long-term business objectives.

In addition to her human resources leadership, Ally serves as the Facility Security Officer, overseeing personnel and facility security compliance in accordance with government requirements. She also maintains responsibility as an OSS Program Manager, supporting both the customers’ mission and the employees assigned to these efforts. Central to her leadership approach is a commitment to making a meaningful difference for those OSS serves, including employees, customers, vendors, and trusted partners.

Park Wiseway Supply Group (PWSG) has appointed Philip Dolby as Chief Financial Officer, effective January 19.

Mark Christie, Chief Executive Officer of PWSG, welcomed Mr. Dolby’s appointment, noting his strong alignment with the company’s growth strategy and operational focus.

“Philip brings a strategic mindset, deep financial expertise, and a clear understanding of how to create value in a complex, growth-oriented distribution business,” said Christie. “I am confident he will be a strong partner to our executive leadership team and a trusted steward of the business as we continue to expand and strengthen our platform.”

A Certified Public Accountant, Philip brings extensive experience in senior financial leadership roles, most recently serving as Vice President of Accounting and Finance. Over the course of his career, he has led financial transformation initiatives that improved financial transparency, strengthened internal controls, enhanced forecasting, reporting capabilities, and accelerated financial close processes.

Christie added, “Philip’s background in acquisitions, process improvement, and financial data management will further support operational efficiency and informed decision-making across the organization. His collaborative approach and focus on aligning financial strategy with organizational objectives will be instrumental as PWSG continues to grow.”

About PWSG
Park Wiseway Supply Group (PWSG) is a leading wholesale distribution platform comprised of Park Supply, Wiseway Supply, Plumbers Wholesale Supply, Stearns Supply, and Northport Electrical Supply. Operating across multiple locations, PWSG serves plumbing, lighting, and electrical professionals with a shared commitment to exceptional service, reliable supply, and local market expertise.

By integrating people, processes, and systems, PWSG has built a scalable, customer-focused organization that combines the strength of a growing regional platform with the agility and relationships of trusted local distributors.

Sentar, Inc. is proud to recognize Clay Coleman, Senior Business Development & Partnerships professional, as a recent addition to the Huntsville team. With over 20 years of experience spanning broadcast media, corporate marketing, and government contracting, Clay brings a dynamic and creative approach to business development and strategic growth. In his new role, Clay will support Sentar’s CMMC and FedRAMP portfolios, driving growth and strengthening relationships across the defense and cybersecurity communities.

Clay’s extensive background includes leadership roles at Alutiiq, Simple Helix, and iHeart Media, where he successfully developed multi-million-dollar business pipelines, led strategic initiatives, and built trusted partnerships across defense and commercial sectors. A well-known figure in Huntsville, Clay is also celebrating his 20th season as the announcer for the Huntsville Havoc hockey team, a role that has made him a beloved personality in the community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Clay is deeply committed to community involvement. He serves on the Board of Directors for H.A.S.B.A.T. and the Redstone Chapter of AUSA and is widely recognized as the Voice of James Clemens High School and Liberty Middle School athletics, announcing football, basketball, and baseball games. His dedication to mentorship and community engagement further highlights his passion for fostering connections and empowering others.

Outside of work, Clay is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His energy, creativity, and relationship-driven approach make him an exceptional addition to Sentar and the Huntsville community. Sentar is excited to see Clay leverage his extensive experience and passion for growth in his new role!

Teledyne Brown Engineering (TBE) is pleased to announce the promotion of Paul May to Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for Teledyne’s Engineered Systems segment. A proven leader at TBE, Paul most recently served as Senior Director of Finance & Business Operations and Senior Director of the Business Management Office, strengthening financial discipline and operational performance across the enterprise.

He brings deep defense-sector experience from prior leadership roles at Aerojet Rocketdyne, Yulista Holding, DRS Technologies, and Jacobs Technology, and has supported collaboration across TBE and sister companies Teledyne Energy Systems and Teledyne Advanced Electronic Solutions. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of West Florida, a Bachelor of Science in Applied Economics from East Carolina University, and an MBA from the University of West Florida.

Teledyne Brown Engineering (TBE) is proud to welcome Dr. Dwight Mosby as Vice President of Space and Advanced Technologies. Dr. Mosby brings more than 25 years of NASA and industry leadership, including directing Spacecraft and Vehicle Systems, serving as Deputy Manager of Human Exploration Development and Operations, and managing the Payload and Mission Operations Division at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC).

He has led multidisciplinary engineering teams supporting major programs such as the Space Launch System (SLS), Human Landing System (HLS), Commercial Crew, the Mars Ascent Vehicle, and the Multipurpose Habitat, and is deeply committed to building diverse, high-performing teams.

Dr. Mosby holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics from Clark Atlanta University and a Ph.D. in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska. He previously supported Teledyne’s award-winning Space Operations organization on the Mission Operations and Integration (MO&I) program. His many honors include MSFC Technical Person of the Year, the Silver Achievement Award, the Space Flight Awareness Award, the Silver Snoopy Award, and the MSFC Director’s Commendation—recognitions that underscore his exceptional contributions to human spaceflight and mission success.

Congratulations to Jackie Ramos, Senior Sales Manager for Trilogy, a Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel, in downtown Huntsville. Jackie is the newly elected National Trustee over Scholarships and Certification for The Society of Government Meeting Professionals. 

As part of the National Board for the Gilmer Institute of Learning, she will provide vital educational opportunities, certifications, scholarships, and resources that strengthen government meeting professionals nationwide. Jackie will help guide initiatives including the National Education Conference and CGMP Scholarships, Chapter Scholarship Best Practices, and the CGMP certification and re-certification process.

Jackie is also the Vice President for the Rocket City Alabama Chapter of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals.

Turner Construction Company has promoted Scott Crosby to business manager for its Huntsville office. In this role, Crosby will provide leadership for business operations, long-term planning, and project execution while supporting client relationships and continued growth across north Alabama.

Crosby joined Turner in 2012 and has held progressive leadership roles supporting complex healthcare, federal, and institutional projects. Most recently, he served in a senior preconstruction leadership role, working closely with project teams and clients to guide planning, budgeting, and delivery strategies. His experience spans both preconstruction and field operations, giving him a full perspective on project success for Turner and its clients.

“Scott has earned the trust of our Huntsville team through steady leadership, technical expertise, and a strong commitment to collaboration,” said Paul Lawson, vice president and general manager for Turner. “He understands the Huntsville market and brings a thoughtful, team-first approach that will serve our clients and partners well as construction opportunities continue to expand in the region.”

Based in Huntsville, Crosby is a graduate of Auburn University. He previously worked with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and as an institutional owner’s representative. He is a LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design and Construction and a DBIA Professional. He also holds an ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate.

Randy Centanni is the Vice President, Business Development for Venturi, LLC A Chenega Company based in Huntsville, Alabama. Prior to joining Venturi, Mr. Centanni was the Sr. Business Development/Capture Manager, US Army Programs for Astrion Group, LLC (formerly Axient, LLC). Prior to joining Astrion, Mr. Centanni was the Director, Business Development for V2X, Global Training Support (formerly Raytheon Global Training and Logistics). With over 25 years of experience in day-to-day Business Development and Strategic Financial Analysis, he has worked within the federal marketplace with organizations including KBR, ASRC Federal, Lockheed Martin, and Teledyne Industries. Considered by many in his profession as an innovative thinker who balances strategic and tactical initiatives, Randy is committed to collaborating with executive management in achieving organizational and operational goals.

Mr. Centanni holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Athens State University in Athens, Alabama. He attended the Executive Management Leadership Program at Carnegie Mellon University/Lockheed Martin Institute – Pittsburgh, PA/Bethesda, MD, in 2002/2003. He has taught and lectured on the role of functional organization support in the Business Development process.

In April 2006, he was elected as a Fellow to the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) and is the past President of the Huntsville Chapter of NCMA 2006-2007. He is the 2016 Huntsville Technical Society (HATS) and NCMA Huntsville Chapter Contracting Professional of the year. He is also a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI®) and the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP®).

WLRH is pleased to welcome Sonni Hood who will manage the station’s Digital Content and Social Media, a role that reflects her strong background in storytelling, audience engagement, and mission-driven communications.

Sonni brings a dynamic mix of creative strategy and hands-on media experience across print, digital, radio, and television. An expert communicator and relationship-builder, she has represented organizations and brands on national platforms including NPR, KTLA, and NewsNation, with additional features in The Washington Post, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living.

In her role at WLRH, Sonni will lead the station’s digital content and social media strategy, helping translate local journalism, music, and storytelling into compelling, accessible experiences across platforms. Her work will focus on expanding WLRH’s reach, deepening audience connection, and amplifying the voices and stories of north Alabama.

Prior to joining WLRH, Sonni served in a senior communications and public relations role for nationally recognized retail and tourism brand, Unclaimed Baggage, in Scottsboro, where she led earned media strategy, served as the brand’s spokesperson, and helped drive significant growth in national visibility and audience engagement. Her experience spans media relations, narrative development, copywriting, on-camera interviewing, and collaborative campaign leadership.

WLRH General Manager, Erich Brukner, shared, “Sonni brings an incredible instinct for storytelling and a deep understanding of how people connect with content today. Her experience, creativity, and sense of purpose align perfectly with where WLRH is headed, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Sonni is a graduate of Auburn University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a minor in Theatre. She is an avid coffee consumer, Enneagram 3w4, and devoted dog mom to two miniature poodles.

The WEDC Foundation (WEDCF) welcomes Brittany Gollins as their first Program Coordinator. This new role marks an important milestone as this local nonprofit strives to expand its impact and better serve its scholars, alumnae, and community.

Brittany is an accomplished project and operations professional, renowned for her expertise in steering mission-driven projects and cultivating impactful professional development programs. With a keen eye for detail, she has adeptly managed complex initiatives, bringing them to life through her exceptional organizational skills. Her collaborative spirit shines through as she works closely with executive leadership, tirelessly enhancing systems and elevating program delivery to new heights.

Currently, Brittany is embarking on an exciting journey as she pursues her Executive MBA at Vanderbilt University, blending rigorous academic challenges with her passion for leadership. When she’s not immersed in her studies, Brittany embraces the beauty of the outdoors and unleashes her creativity through comedy improv, finding joy in both nature and the craft of performance.

With great enthusiasm, the WEDC Foundation looks forward to Brittany joining forces with WEDCF Executive Director Jennifer Linton to champion the organization’s mission and support its long-term sustainability.