Form Test Page

Deputy Assistant to the President, Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs
The White House
____________________

Alex Meyer serves as Deputy Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, where he is the Administration’s principal liaison to state, local, and tribal governments across all 50 states and five territories. In this role, he works to advance key administration priorities and strengthen federal partnerships with state and local governments.

Prior to joining the White House, Meyer served as Deputy Political Director for President Trump’s 2024 campaign, where he oversaw political operations in key battleground states, managed national staff teams, and served as senior advisor to the President for the Iowa caucuses. He has also managed several U.S. Senate and congressional campaigns and previously worked as senior staff at the Republican National Committee.

CFO
AptAmigo
____________________
Originally from Ukraine, Alexsandra (Alex) Murray currently serves as the CFO of AptAmigo, an apartment locating company. A proud 2011 graduate of the College of Liberal Arts with degrees in Political Science and Spanish, she also holds an MBA from Lipscomb University and a Master of Science (MSc) in Development Economics and International Development from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Prior to joining AptAmigo, Alex spent almost a decade in various sectors and industries, from political consulting to data analytics.
Alex is passionate about serving Ole Miss and the Nashville community. She is the co-founder of Nashville With Ukraine, an organization that provides aid and critical medical supplies to Ukrainian citizens affected by the current war. She is serving on the Nashville Symphony Associate Board of Directors, The American Cancer Society of Nashville Young Professionals Board, as Training Committee Chair-Elect in the Junior League of Nashville and is the Events Committee Chair on the Ole Miss Young Alumni Council.

Production Manager
Ardagh Metal Packaging

____________________
Captain Alfondus Rashad Alexander was born and raised in Winona Mississippi to the Parents of Alfondus Alexander and Ramonia Alexander. He is a graduate of Winona High School class of 2008. After completion of graduation, he attended the University of Mississippi for one year and then decided to join the United States Marine Corp Reserve for five years that included one tour to the country of Jordan and reached the rank of Corporal.

Upon returning home he reenrolled at the University of Mississippi as a Business student.

While attending the University of Mississippi, he entered the ROTC program and completed his studies receiving a Bachelor of Arts in both Banking and Finance and Managerial Finance. Alfondus received his Commission on May 15, 2015, gaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. He later attended Basic Officer Leaders Course at Ft. Benning, Georgia.

In 2018 he was deployed for nine months to the countries of Kuwait and Syria. In 2019 he received the Army Commendation Medal for exceptional meritorious service while serving as platoon leader assigned to the Delta Troop 1st Squadron 98th Calvary Regiment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Spartan Shield. His service is in keeping with the highest traditions of military service.

In 2020 he served as a Riot Control Officer with the 2nd Battalion 198th Armored Regiment under Task Force Magnolia at the District of Columbia. He led these efforts with the highest levels of performance, dedication, and professionalism and again received an Army Commendation Medal.

While dedication to his military assignments, he continued to advance in his studies by receiving a Master of Business Administration, Master of Human Resources Management, and Graduate Certificate in Project Management from Webster University receiving Graduate Academic Honors.

Alfondus received his promotion to Captain on May 11, 2021, and served as the Company Commander for Charlie Company 1st Battalion 155th Infantry Regiment. He has been deployed twice in the last ten years receiving many awards and decorations including: National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, United States Navy and United States Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and most recently a Meritorious Service Medal for service in support of Operation Spartan Shield. He continues to serve his country as well as work in a leadership position at Ardagh Metal Packaging in Olive Branch MS.

In August 2024 he entered the PhD program at Liberty University. In March he received an Executive Certificate in Business Administration and continuing his progression for his PhD in Business Administration with an emphasis in Leadership.

Alfondus enjoys traveling with his wife Valencia (BSME 15) and their son Alijah Alexander.

OMAA staff since 2025

Assistant Professor
University of Georgia
____________________

Anish Sharma is an Assistant Professor of Accounting in the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia. He earned a Bachelor of Accountancy in 2014 and a Master of Accountancy in 2015 from the University of Mississippi. He completed a PhD in Accounting from Indiana University in 2023.

Anish teaches financial accounting to undergraduate and master’s students at the University of Georgia. His research focuses on financial disclosure topics that have the potential to influence financial market regulations and policy decisions. His research has been published in prestigious accounting journals, and he has presented his research at universities and conferences across the United States and internationally. He also serves as the PhD Student Mentorship Coordinator and is an ad hoc reviewer for various prestigious accounting journals and conferences.

Before entering academia, Anish was an auditor with Deloitte in Dallas, Texas, serving mutual fund, hedge fund, and private equity clients. While there, he became a Certified Public Accountant.

(BBA 07, MBA 09)
OMAA staff since 2012

LDF Marshall-Motley Fellow/ Attorney
Southern Poverty Law Center
____________________

Originally from Tunica, Mississippi, Arielle Hudson is an attorney at the Southern Poverty Law Center where she focuses on education litigation and youth advocacy. In May of 2025, Arielle graduated from Yale Law School with a Juris Doctor degree. In July of 2022, Arielle graduated from the University of Oxford in Oxford, United Kingdom, with a Qualifying Law Degree. She obtained her BA in Education from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 2020 and is licensed in secondary education in the State of Mississippi.
Arielle serves on the Board of Directors for the ACLU of MS and as a board member on the Mississippi Free Press Advisory Board. Arielle recently served as the National Attorney General and as a board member on the national board of directors for the National Black Law Students Association, the largest student-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in the United States. She is also an inaugural, alumni fellow of the John Robert Lewis Scholars and Fellows Program.

Arielle is a second-cohort member of the Marshall-Motley Scholarship Program, created and funded by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund to endow the South with its next generation of civil rights leaders. Arielle believes in the power of movement and community lawyering and hopes to use the law as a tool to advance the task of liberation for Black people and other marginalized communities. She is committed to continuing Mississippi’s legacy of civil rights activism and fighting for racial justice, equity, and radical social change.

At the University of Mississippi, Arielle served as the President of the Black Student Union and Chairwoman of the Associated Student Body Senate’s Inclusion and Cross-Cultural Engagement Committee. Through her roles, Arielle successfully advocated for the relocation of a Confederate statute and mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion training for students and faculty. Arielle’s advocacy and organizing sparked others in Mississippi to challenge and advocate for the removal of Confederate iconography across the State of Mississippi, including the changing of the state flag. In 2020, Arielle became the first African American woman from the University of Mississippi to become a Rhodes Scholar. She was also inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame. Arielle has appeared on PBS Newshour and has been featured on BET.com and Essence.com.

Functional Consultant
Workday, Inc.
____________________

Ashley Knight is a Functional Consultant at Workday, where she specializes in the Workday VNDLY application for contingent workforce management. In her role, she leads enterprise clients through large-scale implementations that transform how organizations onboard contractors while managing time, expenses, and invoicing.

A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, Ashley earned her bachelor’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications with a minor in Business Administration. She completed her MBA at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she was recognized as a Forté Fellow, served on the MBA Student Advisory Board, and received the Core Value Award for Inclusion, one of only four Core Value Awards presented to her graduating class.

Passionate about giving back, Ashley serves as President of the North Mississippi Symphony League and as Marketing Chair for the Distinguished Young Women of Lee County program, helping raise scholarships for young women. She also volunteers with Helping Hands Food Pantry and co-chairs her church’s Missions Committee, supporting community outreach initiatives.

Ashley lives in Tupelo, MS with husband, Case, cat, George, and dog, Otis. She believes leadership is rooted in service and strives to create meaningful connections - whether guiding organizations through transformation or strengthening her community.

Clinical Audiologist
MRG Exams and Jackson State University
____________________

Dr. Autumn Barron is a licensed clinical audiologist dedicated to improving connections through compassionate hearing healthcare. A proud graduate of Holmes Community College, the University of Mississippi, and the University of Memphis, her educational journey taught her resilience and faith—lessons she brings into every patient encounter as she aims to foster connections, one conversation at a time.
Currently, Dr. Barron works with MRG Exams and DOC Health, providing hearing evaluations for U.S. veterans and active-duty service members. She is also collaborating with Jackson State University to establish an audiology clinic that offers quality hearing care to all. Additionally, she co-authored a published study titled "Identifying Approaches Used by Audiologists for Addressing Psychosocial Issues Affecting Cochlear Implant Clients," which has been presented nationally at the American Cochlear Implant Alliance Conference.
Through The Audiology Project, Dr. Barron advocates for the significance of hearing healthcare in overall wellness and its connection to chronic diseases. Her focus is on improving speech understanding, enhancing communication within families and workplaces, and restoring confidence in everyday life through holistic, patient-centered care. Dr. Barron's goal is to ensure that every patient feels heard and that their needs are met to the best of her ability.

General Manager
Wake Forest Sports Properties, Learfield
____________________
Banks Shepherd has enjoyed a fulfilling fifteen-year career working in revenue generation within college athletics. He currently serves as the General Manager of Wake Forest Sports Properties on behalf of LEARFIELD, the university's athletics multimedia rights holder. Shepherd leads a team charged with developing corporate partnerships, connecting local & national brands with Demon Deacon fans. Most notably, he was part of the team in 2023 that negotiated the two largest corporate partnership deals in school history - securing the naming rights to Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, the home of Wake Forest Football, and with Truist Bank - the presenting partner of Wake Forest Women’s Athletics.

Shepherd has represented a number of championship level college athletics programs after graduating from Ole Miss in 2009. Prior to Wake Forest, he served as the GM of Tulane Sports Properties from 2020-2023, as the Green Wave enjoyed a resurgence in New Orleans, most notably defeating USC in the Cotton Bowl. Before Tulane, Shepherd was a manager of business development in Chapel Hill with Tar Heel Sports Properties, representing the North Carolina Tar Heels; Baylor IMG Sports Marketing in Waco, Texas; and LSU Sports Properties in Baton Rouge. Before transitioning to a focus in corporate partnerships, Shepherd began his college sports career as a development assistant at the UMAA Foundation with Ole Miss Athletics. This was after fellowship opportunities in the marketing and development offices at Vanderbilt Athletics in Nashville.

A native of Jackson, Miss., Shepherd holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Mississippi ('09), master's degree in sports administration from Belmont University ('11) and an MBA from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School ('19).
He and his wife, Jenna, reside in Winston-Salem.

Executive Director
MS Department of Homeland Security
____________________
As the Executive Director of the Mississippi Office of Homeland Security, Kruger is responsible for the execution of the office’s “All-Hazards” mission and oversees the Homeland Security Operations Division, the Mississippi Analysis and Information Center, the Mississippi Cyber Unit, the Digital Forensics Unit, and the Homeland Security Grants Division. He is Chairman of the Mississippi Cybersecurity Review Board and serves on the Mississippi Wireless Commission.
Kruger was appointed to lead Homeland Security in November 2021. Prior to joining the Office, Kruger served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi’s Criminal Division.
Kruger enlisted in the Mississippi Army National Guard in 2007 and received his commission into the Judge Advocate General’s Corps. in 2015. His service includes deployments to the Middle East with the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team and domestically as part of the COVID-19 Task Force.
Kruger earned his J.D. in 2015 from Mississippi College School of Law and B.A. in 2010 from the University of Mississippi. He received extensive legal training at the National Advocacy Center and the Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School.
Kruger lives in Jackson with his wife, the former Emily Wilkins, and their sons, Jeb and Harrison.

Founder and CEO
Double B Boot Company
____________________

Benjamin Bowen is the Founder and CEO of Double B Boot Company, established in November 2022. Designed in Mississippi and inspired by his family’s fourth-generation farming roots, Benjamin leads the brand in Southern craftsmanship, creating handcrafted boots that celebrate the state’s heritage and artistry.

Growing up on his family’s Double B Farm, Benjamin developed a deep appreciation for hard work, agriculture, and the values of Southern life. He earned a degree in Marketing and Corporate Relations from the University of Mississippi, where he learned the importance of relationships—lessons that continue to guide him in working with boot makers, retailers, and customers across the country.

Before founding Double B Boots, Benjamin gained experience in manufacturing, telecommunications at C Spire, and real estate development. These experiences shaped his business acumen and vision, ultimately bringing him back to his passion: building a brand rooted in Mississippi’s story.

Under Benjamin’s leadership, Double B Boot Company has expanded to direct-to-consumer sales across the U.S. and wholesale partnerships with select retailers. Through his work, Benjamin aims to share Mississippi’s legacy of quality, craftsmanship, and authenticity with the world.

Vice President of Finance and Accounting
Probo Medical

____________________
Billy is the Vice President of Finance and Accounting at Probo Medical, where he leads the company’s financial reporting and strategy. With over a decade of experience in financial management, Billy drives profitability and operational efficiency, playing a key role in Probo Medical’s continued growth in the medical imaging industry.
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Billy holds both an accounting degree and Master of Accountancy from the University of Mississippi, where he was also a member of the Ole Miss football team. His time as a student-athlete instilled a strong work ethic and a collaborative mindset, which he applies to his leadership role today.
Before joining Probo Medical, Billy worked at PwC, where he developed expertise in financial audit and consulting services. His time at PwC allowed him to develop a deep understanding of financial reporting, business strategy and client relations, all of which have contributed to his success in leadership roles with his current employer.
Billy is married to his wife, Meggie, and they have two young sons, Will (5) and Cole (3). Outside of work, Billy enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and staying active.

Member/Attorney
Watkins & Eager PLLC
____________________

Briana O’Neil is an attorney at Watkins & Eager PLLC in Jackson, Mississippi. She was elected to partnership this year at the firm. Briana focuses her legal practice primarily in the areas of products liability litigation, medical malpractice, general commercial litigation, insurance defense, and white-collar criminal defense. Briana is recognized by Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch in Criminal Defense: General Practice and Product Liability Litigation – Defendants. She has also been selected by Super Lawyers to Mid-South Rising Stars in Personal Injury – Products.

Briana is an active member in the Mississippi Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division where she currently serves as the Chair of the High School Mock Trial Competition. Briana was recently awarded the Mississippi Bar Foundation’s 2025 Law-Related Public Education Award for her work with the High School Mock Trial Competition. Briana is also involved in the American Bar Association – Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (TIPS) where she is the current chair-elect for the Automobile Litigation Committee.

Briana is also active in the community. She is a member of the Junior League of Jackson where she is currently the Co-Chair of Emerging Leaders. Briana also serves a board member for the Central Mississippi Ole Miss Rebel Club.

Chief Financial Officer
EquiPro Holdings, LLC
____________________

Brooks Krouse is a seasoned finance and accounting professional with extensive experience in audit, financial reporting, and executive leadership. His career spans public accounting and corporate finance, with a proven track record of driving operational efficiency, ensuring compliance, and supporting strategic growth initiatives.

As Chief Financial Officer of Life Dental Group (since July 2025), Brooks oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, treasury management, and strategic planning. He leads initiatives to optimize capital structure, improve profitability, and support expansion through acquisitions and organic growth. Brooks partners with executive leadership to align financial strategies with organizational goals and ensures robust internal controls and compliance with regulatory requirements.

From 2023 to 2025, Brooks served as Controller at Life Dental Group, where he managed the accounting function, implemented process improvements, and enhanced reporting accuracy. His responsibilities included overseeing month-end closing, preparing consolidated financial statements, managing audits, and ensuring compliance with GAAP. Brooks also played a key role in integrating financial systems and processes during periods of rapid growth.

Before joining Life Dental Group, Brooks worked at KPMG, providing professional audit services in accordance with PCAOB requirements and U.S. GAAP for clients primarily in the Oil & Gas sector. His audit experience includes mergers and acquisitions, SEC filings, and accounting for derivatives, corporate taxation, leases, PP&E, expenses, liabilities, and revenue recognition from contracts.

Director of Income and Assets
The Chicago Community Trust
____________________

Caleb Herod currently serves as director of Income & Assets at The Chicago Community Trust.
In this role he funds efforts to support educational attainment, workforce development, and building inclusive business practices in the Chicago region. Caleb co-manages the Bridges to Brighter Futures funding initiative with the Kinship Foundation. Caleb also co-chairs the education funder and College, Career, Access and Persistence (CCAPS) learning communities in Chicago.

Caleb is an experienced educator, project manager, and policy advocate. Originally from Mississippi, Caleb worked as project manager for Extended Learning Initiatives at the Delta Health Alliance before moving to Chicago.

Caleb holds a bachelor’s in public policy leadership from the University of Mississippi and a master’s in public policy from the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy with a concentration in municipal finance and policy analysis.

Director of Strategic Partnerships
Mississippi Department of Mental Health
____________________

Caleb Pracht is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Mississippi Department of Mental Health. In this role, Caleb brings structure, clarity, and momentum to high-priority statewide behavioral health initiatives while managing interagency relationships, coordinating with key stakeholders, and providing operational support to the Executive Director. He also serves as a policy advisor and legislative liaison for the Department, passionately advocating for innovative and impactful mental health policy in the Mississippi Legislature. Previously, Caleb served as a Policy Attorney with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and as a Legislative Attorney with the Mississippi Senate. Caleb is a 2018 graduate of the University of Mississippi and a 2021 graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law. He and his wife, Dr. Mikayla Pracht, live in Gluckstadt with their two children, Madelyn (3) and Henry (1).

Principal IT Solutions Partner
Cotality, Inc
____________________

Carlos Maury is an accomplished technology leader, strategist, and servant-leader whose career spans enterprise IT, digital transformation, and community-centered ministry. He serves as the National Director of Technology for Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., leading the modernization of an international membership organization and overseeing systems that support more than 40,000 members. His work strengthens data governance, enhances cybersecurity, and implements integrated platforms that elevate communication, operations, and national engagement.

Carlos is also a Principal IT Solutions Partner at Cotality (formerly CoreLogic), where he develops high-impact data solutions for major financial institutions. He specializes in large-scale data integration, platform optimization, and analytics frameworks that reinforce the stability and efficiency of the U.S. mortgage ecosystem.

A 2011 graduate of the University of Mississippi with a degree in Management Information Systems, Carlos was active in IMAGE, AITP, NSBE, and BSU. His membership in Iota Phi Theta makes him the first-ever fraternity member in the university's history. He also served on the Ole Miss IT Helpdesk, earning induction into its Hall of Fame, and is a former member of the University Faculty/Staff as a Staff Member of the Department of English.

Beyond his professional career, Carlos serves as a Deacon and Facilities Director at University of Life Church, where he faithfully serves as the armor bearer to Apostle Dr. Dedrick Benson. He also supports small businesses through LosEvolution LLC and mentors young professionals—reflecting a lifelong commitment to service, excellence, and empowering others. Carlos is married to his wife Danielle, with children Alexis, Brooke, Evan, and Fallon.

OMAA staff since 2026

Assistant General Counsel
The Heritage Foundation
____________________

Casey Stafford is a seasoned political law expert with experience in advising candidates, political committees, international companies, and nonprofit organizations at all levels of the political process.

Casey currently serves as the Assistant General Counsel at The Heritage Foundation, where she centers her practice on nonprofit law matters. She also counsels its affiliate, Heritage Action for America, on how to navigate complex state and federal campaign finance, ethics, and lobbying laws and maximize their political impact. In addition, she advises The Daily Signal on First Amendment matters and defamation litigation.

As Amazon’s Policy Counsel, Casey led the entire company’s U.S. political law compliance program in all 50 states and at the federal level. Her work primarily focused on helping Amazon executives and lobbyists achieve their public policy goals against complex regulatory challenges. Thanks to Casey’s work, Amazon built a comprehensive political giving model that enabled the company to engage in critical elections and ballot measures.

Casey also served as a partner at Chalmers & Adams, where she advised clients on election and campaign finance law, ethics law, Foreign Agent Registration Act, pay-to-play laws, government contractor provisions, and rules governing regulated industries like public utilities, pension programs, and gaming. Casey successfully defended public officials, campaigns, and political committees throughout investigations and enforcement matters before the Federal Election Commission, Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. House and Senate Ethics Committees, and various state/local agencies.

During the 2017 through the 2019 election cycles, Casey served as the Deputy General Counsel to the Republican Governors Association. In this role, Casey advised the organization and its affiliates on how to raise and spend over 300 million dollars in each state and territory to support various gubernatorial elections.

Prior to becoming an attorney, Casey served as a law clerk to the late Senator Thad Cochran and former Auditor Stacey Pickering, and as a staff member on the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee.

Notably, Casey also served as the Scholarship Chair of the Young Alumni Counsel, where she expanded the reach of the Young Alumni Scholarship program. Under her leadership, she established and oversaw both the Tulip and Trashcan fundraising programs and selection of its first scholarship recip

Casey resides in the Washington, D.C. area with her golden doodle (Champ), who is famously named after the 2022 Ole Miss Baseball World Series Champions.

News Anchor
Cox Media Group - Action News Jax
____________________

Chandler Morgan is an Emmy Award winning broadcast journalist and communications leader whose work has shaped newsrooms, communities, and audiences across the Southeast. Currently the Primary Morning News Anchor for Cox Media Group in Jacksonville, she leads more than four hours of live daily coverage, delivering clear, compelling storytelling while driving cross-platform content strategy. Chandler’s role extends beyond the anchor desk as she serves as a media liaison, a reputation management resource, and a strategic communicator trusted by viewers and organizational partners alike.

Throughout her career, Chandler has earned numerous recognitions, including an Emmy Award, multiple Emmy nominations, and top honors from the Radio Television Digital News Association and the Florida Association of Broadcasters. She launched “Jags Social,” a female-led Jacksonville Jaguars centric sports show, and contributed impactful investigative reporting that elevated community accountability.

Chandler credits her hands-on experience at NewsWatch Ole Miss and her newsroom internship at her hometown station, WSB-TV in Atlanta, for shaping her commitment to meaningful, people-centered storytelling. Today, she remains deeply connected to her Jacksonville community through her work with Make-A-Wish, supporting children and families facing critical and life-threatening illnesses. During her time with the organization, she has helped raise more than 3 million dollars. She uses her platform to strengthen community engagement and uplift local voices and stories.

Assistant Professor of Radiology, Vice Chair of Education
UMMC

____________________
Dr. Charlotte Skelton Taylor is an assistant professor of radiology and assistant dean of graduate medical education at University of Mississippi Medical Center. A native of Jackson, MS, she is a third-generation Ole Miss graduate and a second-generation graduate of UMMC's School of Medicine, where her parents and two siblings graduated. She was a member of the Tri Delta sorority and received her B.A. with a double major in physics and biology, graduating magna cum laude in 2010 from the University of Mississippi. She earned her M.D. in 2014 at UMMC, where completed diagnostic radiology residency in 2019 and neuroradiology fellowship training in 2020.

She joined UMMC faculty in 2020 and began serving as the diagnostic radiology residency program director in 2022, vice chair of education in 2024, and assistant dean of GME in 2025. She has received multiple educational awards, including induction into UMMC’s Academy in Excellence in Education. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed papers and over 40 abstracts and posters, with involvement in multiple institutional and multicenter research projects. She is an active member of multiple national radiology committees, including serving as chair of the Association of Program Directors in Radiology’s membership committee.

Dr. Taylor is the daughter of Drs. Deborah and Tom Skelton, Ole Miss classes of 1976 and 1977, and her siblings, Dr. Thomas Skelton, Jr. and Dr. Laura Skelton Smith are both Ole Miss graduates. She is the wife of Dr. Jeremy Taylor, Ole Miss class of 2008, and a mother of 3 wonderful children: JJ, Gwen, and Brooks. She enjoys spending her weekends in Oxford as a season baseball and football ticket holder, a Vaught Society Member, and a lifetime Ole Miss Alumni Association member.

Dr. Charlotte Skelton Taylor is an assistant professor of radiology and assistant dean of graduate medical education at University of Mississippi Medical Center. A native of Jackson, MS, she is a third-generation Ole Miss graduate and a second-generation graduate of UMMC's School of Medicine, where her parents and two siblings graduated. She was a member of the Tri Delta sorority and received her B.A. with a double major in physics and biology, graduating magna cum laude in 2010 from the University of Mississippi. She earned her M.D. in 2014 at UMMC, where completed diagnostic radiology residency in 2019 and neuroradiology fellowship training in 2020.

She joined UMMC faculty in 2020 and began serving as the diagnostic radiology residency program director in 2022, vice chair of education in 2024, and assistant dean of GME in 2025. She has received multiple educational awards, including induction into UMMC’s Academy in Excellence in Education. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed papers and over 40 abstracts and posters, with involvement in multiple institutional and multicenter research projects. She is an active member of multiple national radiology committees, including serving as chair of the Association of Program Directors in Radiology’s membership committee.

Dr. Taylor is the daughter of Drs. Deborah and Tom Skelton, Ole Miss classes of 1976 and 1977, and her siblings, Dr. Thomas Skelton, Jr. and Dr. Laura Skelton Smith are both Ole Miss graduates. She is the wife of Dr. Jeremy Taylor, Ole Miss class of 2008, and a mother of 3 wonderful children: JJ, Gwen, and Brooks. She enjoys spending her weekends in Oxford as a season baseball and football ticket holder, a Vaught Society Member, and a lifetime Ole Miss Alumni Association member.

OMAA staff since 2023

Medical Director
University Health's Skin Clinic and Allergy and Asthma Clinic
____________________
Dr. Chioma Udemgba received a bachelor's in physics from the University of Mississippi as a member of the Sally McDonald Barksdale Honors College. After graduation, she went on to receive her medical degree from Duke University, followed by a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Tulane University in New Orleans, LA. At Tulane, she groomed her interests in graduate medical education, health disparities, and DEI work while caring for marginalized patients in an under-resourced community. She graduated from Tulane as Chief Resident with distinctions in Medical Education and Program Administration & Leadership.

She then took her passion for caring for patients with complex medical conditions and experiences in health disparities and programmatic leadership to the NIH where she completed a clinical fellowship in Allergy and Immunology within the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. While in fellowship,
she authored several peer-reviewed papers and led interactive courses that advanced insights and provided usable tools related to DEI within the specialty. She continued these efforts in addition to leading several, novel immunogenetic research studies and serving as president of the Network of African American Fellows at the NIH, designing events and sessions to improve the sense of community and belonging amongst African Americans at the NIH.

In line with her commitment to health equity, she is now leading the development of an equity-focused Allergy clinic and community-focused programs that marry efforts to address social needs and treat medical issues for patients in San Antonio, Texas for the University Health System. This is in addition to her work on the DEI Committee for the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology developing, leading, and supporting programming to help expand the range of providers who care for our most vulnerable and deserving patients with allergic and immunologic disorders. She’s a dedicated advocate for designing and promoting efforts that address issues concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion within the healthcare system as it relates not only to medical providers, trainees, and researchers, but the patients they serve.

President and CEO of Arriva, a Fail Family Company
____________________
Experienced provider of rural telecommunications with a special interest in government relations and policy. Fourth generation in a family business dating back to 1923. Graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law and a member of the Chancellor's Leadership Class of 2004. Rural advocate and beach goer.

You might say rural telecommunications is in Christa’s blood, as she is the oldest grandchild of Charles and Dorothea, and the fourth generation to carry on the legacy Arriva, a Fail Family Company. An attorney by education, Christa rejoined the family business in 2012 as In-House Counsel. Christa is passionate about sustaining the vitality of small-town America and is committed to strengthening rural communities by bringing the benefits robust broadband access can offer. Christa is active with many industry organizations and has served as past-President of both the Telecommunications Association of the Southeast (now BAAM: Broadband Association of Alabama and Mississippi) and Past-President of the Georgia Telephone and Broadband Association. She was awarded “Grassroots Advocate of the Year” in 2020 by NTCA- The Rural Broadband Association. She was appointed by Governor Tate Reeves to the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Board of Directors in 2021 and was named a top 10 finalist by the Mississippi Business Journal as a Top 50 Distinguished Business Women in 2023. Earlier this year, she joined the board of the Mississippi Enterprise for Technology.

Today, Christa is President and CEO of Arriva where she works alongside her sister, Ali. She remains a zealous advocate for the rural broadband industry at the national, regional, and state levels and enjoys being closely involved with shaping policy that promotes rural connectivity. Outside of the office she enjoys being involved with local animal rescue organizations and spending time with her dogs at the beach.

Senior Counsel
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani
____________________

After receiving her B.A. in History and Public Policy Leadership from the University of Mississippi in 2011 and her J.D. from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2014, Christina Seanor began practicing law in Jackson, Mississippi. Christina is now Senior Counsel in the Jackson office of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP, where she represents businesses in complex, high-stakes litigation across the Southeast.

Christina is passionate about providing pro bono service to those in need and especially enjoys her work with the Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project’s Settlement Assistance Program, through which she represents pro se litigants at settlement conferences in civil cases in the Southern District Court of Mississippi. To date she’s helped indigent litigants recover more than $80,000.

Christina was elected and currently serves as President-Elect of the Young Lawyers Division of the Mississippi Bar. She will be sworn in as President of the YLD in July 2026, and will then serve one year as Past-President. In these roles, Christina serves as a Commissioner on the Mississippi Board of Bar Commissioners and represents the organization nationally as a delegate to the ABA YLD. She has more than a decade of leadership and service to her state and local bar organizations. In recognition of which she received Jackson Young Lawyer’s Outstanding Service Award for 2016-2017 and the Mississippi Bar YLD’s 2019 Outstanding Young Lawyer Award.

Christina lives in Fondren with her husband Dustin (J.D. 2011), daughter Annie, and son Teddy.

Pharmacy Manager / District Immunization & MTM Lead
Walgreens
____________________

Christopher Waldron is the pharmacy manager for Walgreens in Meridian, Mississippi, and serves as the district's Immunization and Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Lead. In this role, he leads vaccination initiatives across the state, coordinating outreach programs that bring essential immunization services to local business, nursing homes, and underinsured communities.

A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, Christopher earned his B.S in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2018, and his Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) in 2021. A lifelong Ole Miss fan, he proudly gives back to the University as a preceptor for pharmacy students at the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, mentoring and teaching the next generation of pharmacists.

Christopher's leadership and dedication to public health have been recognized state and nationwide, with his article on vaccination efforts in Mississippi featured in Mississippi Today and on Walgreens' offical LinkedIn page. Committed to advancing equitable access to healthcare, he continues to make a lasting impact on his community and the pharmacy profession.

(BBA 25)
OMAA staff since 2025

(BBA 86)
OMAA staff since 1988

Senior Head of Schools
KIPP Chicago Public Schools
____________________

Cory Washington is the Senior Head of Schools at KIPP Public Schools, where he has established himself as a transformative leader in both rural and urban educational settings. With a proven track record of successfully turning around underperforming schools, Cory excels in coaching principals and enhancing student outcomes. His diverse experience spans roles as Principal, Assistant Principal, Reading Specialist, and Literacy Coach, emphasizing literacy and curriculum development to drive academic success. Cory holds degrees from the University of Mississippi and Belhaven University, which have equipped him with a strong foundation in educational leadership and management. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his active involvement in various educational and community organizations, where he contributes to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity. In his spare time, I loves spending time traveling and smiling with his wife, Lakeya, and two children, Brookly and Lennox.

Vice President, Financial Controller
Bank3
____________________

Courtney Still is a highly accomplished and exceptionally effective leader who consistently delivers impactful results through a robust combination of comprehensive technical expertise and keen business acumen. Her diverse background spans a variety of critical roles across multiple, distinct industries—including healthcare, restaurant, manufacturing, logistics, and banking.

Courtney is currently the Vice President Controller at BANK3, where she analyzes and publishes financial statements, manages accounting department operations, leads projects such as process improvement and cost management, and ensures regulatory and compliance standards are being upheld. Previously, she was a Financial Controller at Honeycomb Management Group, where she contributed financial expertise to multiple doctors, board members, and executives. She led and coached employees to effectively manage costs and forecasted future costs to ensure budget was met. She also held accountant positions at FedEx and Mueller Industries, analyzing account balances, preparing accrual entries, and simplifying accounts payable processes. Her career began as an auditor at Deloitte, where she reviewed financial records for a variety of industries, tested and evaluated internal controls, and pioneered new audit software. She is currently the Membership Chair for the Young Alumni Council where she mentors accounting students and is the secretary for the Memphis Rebel Club.

Senior Rates and Regulatory Analyst, Legal and Government Affairs/City Attorney
____________________
Davis L. Gates is a distinguished attorney and policy advisor with extensive experience in regulatory affairs, public service, and legal advocacy. At Atmos Energy, Davis is a regulatory liaison, rate analyst, and public affairs expert. He brings a nuanced understanding of regulatory compliance and rate structures to the energy sector, ensuring both corporate and public interests are aligned. Beyond his role at Atmos, Davis serves as the City Attorney and Prosecutor for Terry, MS. Here he provides legislative counsel, drafting, and revises the City's code of ordinances and advises its Board on the meaning of legislative enactments, and as a prosecutor, he works with law enforcement to investigate crimes, determine whether charges should be filed, and prosecute cases in court. Previously, as the Legal and Policy Advisor for the Central District of the Mississippi Public Service Commission, he provided critical guidance on legal and policy matters, advising the Commissioners and the Commission. Davis holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law and a BA in Public Policy Leadership and Political Science. His dedication to legal excellence and community impact has earned him & cognition as a rising star under 40 in Public Utilities Fortnightly.

President and CEO
MS Enterprise for Technology
____________________
Davis Pace leads the Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET), a public-private partnership at NASA’s Stennis Space Center. At MSET, Davis leads efforts to attract aerospace and defense industries to Mississippi, building relationships with NASA, the Navy, the Mississippi Development Authority, and the state’s R-1 universities. Since joining MSET in 2021, he helped launch the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi (ADAM) and an annual symposium on aerospace and defense. Before MSET, Davis spent nearly a decade in Washington, D.C., working on international relations, technology, telecommunications, and cybersecurity issues. He served as senior staff for the House Foreign Affairs Committee under Ranking Member Michael McCaul (TX), managing emerging technologies, space, and cybersecurity. Davis also served as Legislative Director for Rep. John Ratcliffe (TX), leading reforms in cyber defense and information systems. Davis has been named one of Mississippi’s Top CEOs by the Mississippi Business Journal, is the inaugural Chairman of ADAM’s Board of Directors, and a graduate of the Gulf Coast Business Council’s Masters Class. He is a member of the American Enterprise Institute’s Leadership Network. Davis holds a bachelor’s from the University of Mississippi and a J.D. from Mississippi College School of Law. He lives in Gulfport with his family.

Associate Administrator
Baptist Memorial Hospital - Union County
____________________

Dillon is the Associate Administrator for Baptist Memorial Hospital – Union County in New Albany, Mississippi. He served as Lead Pharmacist and Director of Pharmacy at BMH-Union County for 10 years and showed a strong commitment to advancing patient care and pharmacy practice. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Mississippi in 2015, completed his residency at Baptist Memorial Hospital–North Mississippi, and later obtained a Master of Healthcare Administration in 2023.

Dillon was honored as the "Outstanding Young Pharmacist" by the Mississippi Society of Health-System Pharmacists (MSHP) in 2019, recognizing his leadership, clinical excellence, and dedication to the profession. He brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to pharmacy and is passionate about driving quality improvement in healthcare delivery. He has served on the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy Alumni Board, MSHP Legislative and Education Committees and MPHA Government Affairs committee. He has also been awarded the "You Make a Difference Award" for BMH-Union County. Dillon is on the board of directors for the Ingomar Foundation for Excellence, Ingomar Baptist Child Development Center and serves as a Deacon at Ingomar Baptist Church.

In his role as Associate Administrator, Dillon serves as the Pharmacy Director and also oversees clinical and support departments including Rehab, Radiology, Respiratory, Lab, Environmental and Facility Services.

Social Responsibility and Engagement Counselor
University of Mississippi
____________________

Donte’ S. Ferrell is a proud native of New Albany, Mississippi, dedicated sports and higher educational practitioner whose career is rooted in service and social responsibility. At the University of Mississippi, he leads initiatives that elevate student-athlete engagement, personal and professional development, and mentorship, leading the charge to assist in the better making of rising generals as they pursue their goals in corporate realms.

Beyond his professional role, his passion for philanthropy and youth empowerment guides his work in developing programs that expand access and opportunity for underrepresented communities. His journey from the Boys & Girls Club to higher education leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to mentorship and civic engagement.

A graduate of the University of Mississippi and Belhaven University, Ferrell also serves as an active member of Clear Creek M.B. Church and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where he continues to advance community service and educational excellence. His leadership embodies purpose, humility, and a drive to create lasting change.

(21)
OMAA staff since 2024

Pharmacy Supervisor, Specialty Pharmacy Program
UMMC
____________________
Dr. Dylan Lindsay is a pharmacy supervisor for the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) specialty pharmacy program, where he oversees the program’s accreditation and quality management efforts as well as clinic-based pharmacy staff for dermatology, pediatric endocrinology, and adult infectious diseases patient care areas. A Jackson native, he graduated from Millsaps College in 2010 with his B.S. in Biology and a minor in Chemistry before pursuing his Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from the University of Mississippi. After graduating with his PharmD in 2014, he completed two years of residency training through the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy with a focus on ambulatory care and academia. Following residency, Dr. Lindsay worked for 3 years in the MS pine belt as part of a patient care initiative between the Hattiesburg Clinic health system and Cigna Medicare, obtaining board certifications as an ambulatory care pharmacist (BCACP) and diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES) in the process. The improvement in patient outcomes realized through this initiative were so pronounced that Dr. Lindsay and his partnered nurse practitioner were asked to present on their collaborative workflows to all Cigna Medicare clinical staff in the U.S.
Outside of work, Dr. Lindsay is involved with multiple pharmacy professional organizations, and has participated in numerous survey panels, task forces, professional summits, and continuing education presentations. He also precepts pharmacy students and residents through the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. Dr. Lindsay has been recognized by the MS Business Journal as a Top 40 Under 40 honoree in 2023 and has also received accolades from the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, most notably as the PGY-2 Ambulatory Care Pharmacy Residency Preceptor of the Year for 2023-24. Dr. Lindsay resides in Brandon, MS, with his wife (Emily), 2-year-old son (Rhys), and two dogs (Nova and Duke).

Professional Staff Member, Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies
United States Senate Committee on Appropriations
____________________

Elizabeth Joseph serves as a Professional Staff Member for the United States Senate Committee on Appropriations’ Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies. In this role, she is the lead staff member for the Senate majority for funding certain Federal healthcare programs, including activities within the Health Resources and Services Administration and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, among other agencies. For more than six years, Elizabeth served as policy director for Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03). She has also worked for former Congressman Gregg Harper, as Health Policy Fellow to former U.S. Senator Thad Cochran on assignment from the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Center for Telehealth, and for former Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour.

Elizabeth received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in Public Policy Leadership from the University of Mississippi and a Master of Public Affairs degree from The University of Texas at Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs. In Washington, D.C, Elizabeth is an active member of Capitol Hill Baptist Church and a sustaining member of the Junior League of Washington.

Senior Manager Strategic Finance
Walmart, Inc.
____________________
Emily Monsour is currently serving as a Senior Finance Manager for Walmart’s Health & Wellness division in Bentonville, Arkansas. In this role, she leads strategic business planning and evaluates external partnerships to leverage Walmart’s Healthcare assets to deliver value to the broader enterprise.

Prior to joining Walmart in 2021, she held roles with the Chicago Cubs, R.R. Donnelley, and HORNE LLP. She received her MBA from Vanderbilt and Bachelor of Accountancy from the University of Mississippi. She is also a licensed CPA.

In addition to leading the Ole Miss Young Alumni Council Scholarship Committee, she serves on the Patterson School of Accountancy Alumni Board and is a proud member of the Ole Miss Women’s Council Rose Society.

Licensed Social Worker and Mental Health Therapist
New York Psychotherapy & Counseling Center
____________________
Emmalee Rainey is a Mental Health Therapist and Licensed Social Worker based in New York City, with a background in talk therapy and education. After graduating from the University of Mississippi in 2013, she was selected to be a part of the 2013 Teach For America Corps in New York. She began working as a 7th grade science teacher at Harlem Prep Middle school where she continued to work and attend graduate school part time earning a Master's in the Art of Teaching in Biology 7-12 in 2015. Emmalee continued working in her TFA placement school for over a decade, planning curriculum, earning mastery level scores in teaching, and becoming a team leader. She began working towards master's in social work from New York University and after graduation in 2021 she looped up with her former students as their high school social worker. After 11 years in education, she transitioned into working full time for New York Psychotherapy and Counseling Center where she
supports clients ages 5 and up through a modality of therapeutic interventions.
She has continued her involvement in the Ole Miss
community as President of the Ole Miss NYC Club and recently led the revival of Mississippi in the Park. In her free time, she enjoys cooking for her favorite humans, spending time with her family, being a karaoke queen, exploring the outdoors, and leading Hotty Toddy at her weekly watch parties.

Managing Director
SCF Partners
____________________
Garrett Jackson joined SCF Partners, a Houston based private equity firm focused on energy service, equipment and technology companies, in 2013,
and currently serves as a Managing Director. In this capacity, he is responsible for identifying and executing new investment opportunities across North America and providing strategic guidance to SCF’s portfolio companies. Garrett plays a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s investment strategy and has led investments totaling over $1 billion in transaction value.
He serves as a board director for several companies, including Taurus Industrial Group, Pipeline Plastics, and Camin Cargo, while also chairing the boards of OneWest Manufacturing Partners and Critical Flow Solutions.

Born and raised in Mississippi, Garrett graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor’s of Science dual degree in Political Science and Public Policy Leadership. Upon graduating, Garrett took a job with Solamere Capital, a private equity firm in Boston, and soon became involved with the Free and Strong America PAC, Senator Mitt Romney’s Boston-based political action committee. In 2009, he was appointed Deputy National Finance Director for the PAC, before transitioning to the role of Senator Romney’s Personal Aide and traveling Chief of Staff. As Romney’s personal aide, Garrett was responsible for managing his day-to-day activities and traveled with the GOP presidential nominee throughout the entirety of the 2012 election cycle. He earned an MBA from Rice University’s Business School, graduating in 2017.

Garrett is also active in the community and other initiatives, serving on boards of various organizations. He and his wife have three children, and in his spare time, he enjoys flying, golfing, and keeping up with his beloved alma mater, Ole Miss.

Attorney
Department of Defense
____________________

Glenna Lusk serves as the Lead Attorney for the Cyber Analysis Division at the Department of Defense in Washington, D.C. She provides legal counsel on complex issues at the intersection of intelligence, technology, and international law—advising on cyber operations, emerging technologies, and global information-sharing frameworks.

A three-time graduate of the University of Mississippi, Lusk earned her Bachelor of Business Administration with a double minor in Management information Systems and Intelligence and Security Studies (2015), Master of Criminal Justice in Homeland Security and Emergency Management (2017), and Juris Doctor with an Air and Space Law concentration (2020). While at Ole Miss, she was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi and Alpha Phi Sigma honors societies, earned the Celebration of Achievement Award and Ole Miss Who’s Who recognition twice, and received the Department of Legal Studies Outstanding Criminal Justice Graduate Student award.

Before her current role, she served in the Federal Honors Attorney Program, where she became one of the most decorated honors attorneys in the program’s history, receiving seven awards. She has since earned three additional national security awards for her continued excellence in the Cyber Division.

Beyond her government service, Lusk volunteers with the Junior League of Washington and local nonprofits supporting women and families in need. Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to public service, legal integrity, and advancing national security through ethical and innovative counsel.

State Director
Bailey Education Group

____________________
Golda Sharpe’s career is a testament to the transformative power of education. Hailing from the Mississippi Delta and now based in New Orleans, Golda’s 15+ years in education have been defined by an unwavering commitment to improving student outcomes and empowering educators. Early in her career, as a high school math teacher in North Panola School District, she not only improved student proficiency but also earned Teacher of the Year honors for driving the highest growth in the district. This success launched her into the role of the district’s first math instructional coach, where she continued to inspire positive change.
Golda’s mission has always been to create environments where students can thrive. She’s worked across the country, partnering with schools and charter organizations to drive meaningful, sustainable change. At Instruction Partners, she led initiatives that helped districts refine their instructional practices, deepening the impact of materials and fostering collaboration among educators. Now as the State Director at Bailey Education Group, Golda leads bold initiatives across Louisiana, Texas, and Tennessee, impacting thousands of students. Her visionary leadership focuses on empowering teachers and leaders to rise above challenges, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Golda’s legacy is one of creating lasting, positive change, and her work continues to shape the future of education across the nation.

Director of Clinical Operations / Physical Therapist
Performance Therapy
____________________

Haley Mays is a physical therapist, business owner, and healthcare leader based in Madison, Mississippi. A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Mississippi with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, she earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Her career reflects commitment to clinical excellence, compassionate care, and strong organizational leadership.

Haley owns an outpatient physical therapy clinic in partnership with Elite Physical Therapy and serves as Director of Clinical Operations for Performance Therapy, as well as Clinic Director for its Madison location.

Clinically she specializes in post-surgical rehabilitation, athletic recovery, and vestibular therapy. She is one of Mississippi’s few certified vestibular therapists, specializing in vertigo and post-concussion conditions. Her dedication earned her Hometown Magazine’s “Best of the Best” Physical Therapist award for Madison County in 2024 and 2025.

Haley is married to fellow Ole Miss alumnus Aubrey Mays, and they have two children, Ann Leighton and Lawson. She is also a founding partner and co-host of the Marty Mays Memorial Golf Tournament, which has raised more than $50,000 for the Mississippi Alliance to End Suicide. Outside of work, she enjoys time with her family, trips to the beach, and cheering on Ole Miss athletics.

OMAA staff since 2024

(BS 19, MA 22)
OMAA staff since 2026

President
Worsham Brothers, Inc.
____________________
Hayden Worsham III is President of Worsham Brothers Inc., an established commercial construction group in Corinth, MS that offers a suite of services including general contracting and construction management, design-build expertise, pre- and post-construction services, pre-engineered metal buildings and more. Serving as the fourth generation of family leadership within the company, Hayden is responsible for implementing efficiencies throughout the business while increasing new development opportunities, ensuring excellence across complex projects and investing back into the community. In 2024, Worsham Brothers built the first major signage to ever identify the Grove at the University of Mississippi with the completion of campus landmark, the Grove Plaza, situated at the entrance of the iconic 10-acre park.

Before joining Worsham Brothers, Hayden played a key role in the growth of general contracting firm, The Wilkinson Group, Inc. in Atlanta, Georgia, gaining extensive experience in office, medical, retail, military, multi-family, hospitality, and manufacturing projects from both a construction management and general contracting capacity. Prior to this experience, he spent two years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana working with an international civil engineering firm on projects spanning manufacturing, higher education, retail and medical site design.

Hayden graduated from the University of Mississippi with a B.S. in Civil Engineering and currently serves on the board of The Alliance, The Alliance Community Development Council, and The United Way Foundation, in addition to serving as an active Rotary member. He and his family are also active members of First Presbyterian Church of Corinth, where he serves on the Board of Deacons. In his free time, Hayden enjoys spending time with his amazing wife Jordan and their two beautiful girls, playing golf and attending Ole Miss sporting events.

Director of U.S. Open Operations
U.S. Golf Association
____________________
Jack Mitchell serves as the Director of U.S. Open Operations, one of the world's most prestigious and high-profile events. With a wealth of experience in large-scale event management, Jack is responsible for overseeing the seamless execution of operations for the U.S. Open, ensuring that all logistical, operational, and organizational aspects come together to create a world-class experience for players, spectators, partners, media, and other key stakeholders. In this role, Jack leads a dynamic team, coordinating everything from venue preparation to vendor management and on-site operations. With a focus on efficiency, safety, and excellence, Jack works closely with internal teams, stakeholders, partners, and other groups to ensure the U.S. Open’s operations are executed flawlessly each year.
Before joining the USGA team, Jack graduated from the University of Mississippi with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing in 2016.

Regional Vice President
Republic Finance
____________________

Jasmine Carter Mathews is a Regional Vice President at Republic Finance, where she oversees an $85 million portfolio, leads a team of more than 30 professionals, and drives consistent growth across multiple branches in Mississippi. Under her leadership, branches have achieved top statewide rankings, and managers have advanced into higher leadership roles.

Jasmine is also the inaugural chair of UNITE, the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion committee, where she has spearheaded initiatives that donated thousands of dollars to national nonprofits, expanded scholarship opportunities for underrepresented students, and launched a voter education campaign reaching employees companywide. Her work reflects her belief that leadership must extend beyond business results to positively impact communities.

In addition to her corporate leadership, Jasmine is the published author of No Tantrums in the Breakroom: Policies for Surviving Leadership with Your Sanity Intact, a practical and witty management guide for new and seasoned leaders alike. She also serves on the Coleman Alexander Prosser Foundation board, where she chairs the scholarship committee.

A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, Jasmine credits her degree with giving her the foundation to lead with both strategic vision and people-first values.

(BSES 05, MA 25)
OMAA staff since 2022

(BA 97)
OMAA staff since 2002

(15)
OMAA staff since 2017

OMAA staff since 2007

Founder and President
Randle Strategies, LLC
____________________
Josh Randle is the founder and president of Randle Strategies, a Washington, D.C.-based consultancy that advises leading companies and high-profile organizations across sectors in navigating complex public affairs and government relations landscapes. Josh is also a founding member and senior advisor of the Washington AI Network, where he supports the development of initiatives to advance ethical and impactful artificial intelligence policy. At age 29, Josh became the youngest president in the 100-year history of the Miss America Organization. His visionary leadership led to a historic financial turnaround, achieving a multi-million-dollar revenue increase in just two years. Josh produced the annual Miss America telecast on ABC, contributing to its legacy as one of television’s longest-running live events. Under his leadership, Miss America awarded a record $6 million annually in cash scholarships and in-kind college tuition waivers for young women.
Before Miss America, Josh served as the first-ever CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Foundation USA, one of the British Royal Family’s principal charities, founded by Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s husband. During his tenure, Josh expanded the Foundation’s reach to all 50 states and launched juvenile rehabilitation programs at state and nonprofit facilities, setting national precedents for youth development. Josh graduated magna cum laude from the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College at the University of Mississippi, where he was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Josh lives in Georgetown, with his wife, Alex, and their children.

Senior Manager, Medical Education Programs
Washington University, St. Louis
____________________
Dr. Justavian D. Tillman,a University of Mississippi alumnus, is dedicated to advancing student success and well-being. He holds a master’s in student affairs from Western Kentucky University and a Doctorate in Education from Saint Louis University, where his research focused on church involvement's impact on African American college students’ mental health.

As Senior Manager of Medical Education and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs at Washington University in St. Louis, Dr. Tillman oversees medical education programs and pipeline initiatives that enhance diversity in medicine, fostering an inclusive culture within the department.

Actively engaged in community service, Dr. Tillman serves on the Wyman Center Young Professionals Network and the Center of Creative Arts Associates Board. He also mentors youth as a Big Brother.
Recognized for his impact, he has received the St. Louis American Salute to Young Professionals Award, SACSA’s Mid-Level Professional of the Year, and Western Kentucky University’s Top 6 Under 40 award, and he was recently named First-Gen Alumni in Residence at Western Kentucky University. A proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Dr. Tillman exemplifies leadership and dedication to both education and community.

Director of Communication
TikTok
____________________
Kellie Norton is a seasoned communications professional currently serving as Global Communications Director at TikTok in New York City. With over a decade of experience in strategic communications, Kellie has played pivotal roles in enhancing brand perception across various industries. Since joining TikTok in 2020, she has led innovative PR campaigns that have helped shape the TikTok for Business brand, ultimately leading to a major shift in how brands and marketers are redefining their advertising strategies.
Prior to TikTok, Kellie led PR for the Italian goods company, Moleskine, where she orchestrated successful PR campaigns that significantly boosted brand awareness and helped uplift the 30-year-old brand as an innovator in the digital space. Her early career included roles at 5W and Mission Media, where she honed her skills in campaign strategy and client relations for high- profile brands including Belvedere Vodka, J.Crew, JetSmarter, and the United Nations, among others.
A graduate of the University of Mississippi with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations, Kellie is dedicated to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. With a passion for innovation and a keen understanding of market trends, she continues to drive impactful communications strategies that elevate brand stories globally.

(BA 93)
OMAA staff since 2016

OMAA staff since 2024

President / VP of Sales
Verve Influence Partners / Kinbro, Inc.
____________________

Laney McNeer is the President of Verve Influence Partners, a Mississippi-based consulting firm specializing in business development and government relations. Through Verve, Laney serves as a strategist and connector between the public and private sectors, helping clients navigate policy, build relationships, and advance strategic objectives.

Laney previously served as the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the Alzheimer’s Association in Mississippi, leading state and federal advocacy efforts. She also served as Vice President of Sales for Kinbro, Inc., where she supported business development efforts within the construction and power industries.

Laney is actively involved in her community and currently serves as President-Elect of the Central Mississippi Ole Miss Rebel Club, an affiliate club of the Ole Miss Alumni Association. She also serves on the board of Ballroom Mississippi Dancesport Academy, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing dance to underserved communities, and has served on the planning committees for the American Cancer Society’s Best Dressed Jackson event and the Special Olympics Gold Gala. Laney is also a member of the Mystical Order of the Phoenix, an all-female Mardi Gras krewe in New Orleans.

A graduate of the University of Mississippi, Laney earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and English and later received her Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law. While at Ole Miss, she served as an Orientation Leader and was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority.

Laney lives in Jackson, Mississippi, and attends Galloway United Methodist Church. On any given fall Saturday, she can be found hosting in the Grove and cheering on the Rebs in the Vaught alongside her partner, Harry, and their children, Nicholas, Ava, and Adrian.

Mental Health Therapist
Rankin County School District
____________________

Dr. LaShaunda L. Smith, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMH, is a Brandon, Mississippi native and clinical mental health counselor, supervisor, and educator committed to expanding access to trauma-informed, relationship-centered care across the state. A proud University of Mississippi alumna, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with minors in African American Studies, Psychology, and Spanish. She worked in the Office of the Dean of Students as a student worker while serving in the Pride of the South Marching Band and as Chapter President of Tau Beta Sigma.

Dr. Smith earned her MS in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling (2017) and her PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision (2025) from Walden University. Her scholarship centers on community-based counselors’ preparedness to provide trauma-informed care, reflecting her commitment to strengthening both clinical practice and professional development. She is the owner of L.L. Smith Counseling Services, LLC, where she provides counseling for individuals, couples, and families and offers clinical supervision for counselors pursuing licensure. She also serves as a Mental Health Therapist with Rankin County School District, providing school-based therapy, coordinating care, and crisis intervention to support student wellness and safety.

Her honors include Clinical Mental Health Counselor of the Year (Mississippi Counseling Association, 2025), Outstanding New Counselor of the Year (2023), Mental Health Advocate of the Year (The Best of Mississippi Awards, 2025), and Employee of the Year and Direct Service Awards (Region 8 Mental Health, 2019–2021). Whether supporting students or counseling families, Dr. Smith leads with purpose, turning evidence-based care into lasting, community-level impact.

OMAA staff since 2024

Vice President & Chief of Staff, Enterprise Operations & Clinical Services
Centene Management Company
____________________

Laurin Dixon is the Vice President & Chief of Staff, Enterprise Operations & Clinical Services at Centene, where she plays a pivotal role in driving strategic alignment, operational efficiency, and cross-functional collaboration. Directly supporting the COO, Laurin leads and advances initiatives spanning clinical services, enterprise optimization, and government program innovation and strategy, subsequently driving impact across more than 28 million members.

Previously, she served as Lead Executive of Medicare Products and Director of Star Ratings at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield. In those roles, she had responsibility for all business and financial aspects of the Medicare lines of business and the strategy and implementation of quality programs within the BCBS Arkansas Medicaid program. She began her career completing an Executive Fellowship in Healthcare Quality and Association Management at the Pharmacy Quality Alliance, followed by a number of progressive roles inside of Humana where she led Medicare Pharmacy Stars programs, community pharmacy collaborations, and pharmacist clinical management initiatives.

Laurin received her B.S in Pharmaceutical Sciences and PharmD from the University of Mississippi, where she currently is a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Administration.

Manager of Deloitte Consulting, LLP
____________________
Dr. Leona Monroe is a first-generation college graduate from Tunica, MS. She graduated from Ole Miss in 2009, followed by a Master of Education from DePaul University, in 2012. She also holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Administration, with a concentration in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination.
A retired disabled combat veteran with two decades of service, Dr. Monroe currently is a manager for one of the Big 4 accounting firms (Deloitte Consulting, LLP) and serves as an adjunct professor at Liberty University. Her certifications include CDFM, CSM, and DoD FMC Level III. She is married to Ernest Monroe Jr., and they have three children: two daughters (7 & 5) and a son (1).
Recognized for her wartime contributions, Dr. Monroe has been featured in the Tunica Museum and has received numerous accolades, including 15 military awards and honors from Deloitte. She is actively involved in professional and social organizations such as Top Ladies of Distinctions, the Order of the Eastern Star, PHA, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She dedicates over countless hours annually to mentoring and community services. She also an entrepreneur who is focused on providing affordable housing in Mississippi.
Dr. Monroe's journey from Tunica, Mississippi, to becoming a distinguished professional and community leader is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and commitment to service. Her multifaceted career, coupled with her extensive community involvement and entrepreneurial spirit, highlights her as a role model and a beacon of excellence.

Dermatologist/Mohs Surgeon
Ochsner-Rush Health
____________________
Dr. Logan Rush is a 2012 graduate of the University of Mississippi. He obtained his Bachelor of the Arts degree with a major in biology and minors in chemistry and psychology. He earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2016. He completed an internship in internal medicine, followed by a residency in dermatology at University of Arkansas, which was completed in 2020. He culminated his training in 2021 by completing a fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncology at Saint Louis University. He currently practices dermatology and Mohs Surgery (with a focus on skin cancer surgery) at Ochsner Rush Health in Meridian, MS. He is married to Anne Webb Rush (an Ole Miss alumnus) and has 3 children: Henry, Ella, and Charlie. He is active in his community through involvement at Covenant Church, Boys and Girls Club, and as a mentor for EC Healthnet Family Medicine Residency. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing pickleball, golf, and Ole Miss sports.

Director/Physician
North Mississippi Health Services
____________________

Dr. M. Craig Moffett, D.O. is a family medicine physician with North Mississippi Health Services in Maben, Mississippi. A native of rural Mississippi, he is driven by a mission to expand access to quality healthcare and strengthen small communities across the state.

He provides care in the clinic, hospital, emergency department, and long-term care settings, and serves as Medical Director for five long-term care facilities. As Physician Champion for the North Mississippi Post-Acute Care Collaborative, he works to improve transitions of care and patient outcomes.

Beyond his clinical leadership, Dr. Moffett is deeply involved in healthcare advocacy as a Board Trustee of the Mississippi State Medical Association and a Lieutenant Governor appointee to the Mississippi Medicaid Advisory Committee. He also serves as Lead Medic for the Webster County Sheriff’s Department Special Response Team.

An entrepreneur committed to community growth, Dr. Moffett is the Founder and President of Doctors Inn Care Homes and Excel Fitness Center, two initiatives focused on improving health and quality of life in rural Mississippi. He remains dedicated to building stronger, healthier communities through service, innovation, and local investment.

Most importantly Dr. Moffett is married to fellow Ole Miss alumnus , Courtney Byers Moffett. Together they have 4 children Emmett, Brennan, Killian, and Callaghan.

Driving Possibilities Project Manager
CREATE Foundation/Toyota Mississippi's Driving Possibilities
____________________

Mallie Imbler currently serves as the Project Manager for Toyota’s Driving Possibilities program in Mississippi where she manages the implementation of a $1.8 million national Toyota Foundation grant program aimed at closing educational achievement gaps and developing a replicable model for other school districts in partnership with the CREATE Foundation, Toyota Mississippi, the University of Mississippi, and the Lee County School District.

Previously, Mallie spent five years in the U.S. Senate, representing her home state of Mississippi on infrastructure, commerce, economic development, environment, and judiciary issues. In her role as Legislative Assistant, Mallie drafted and negotiated legislation, advised Senator Wicker, and staffed Commerce, Environment and Public Works, and Rules Committee hearings. She also managed all transportation, water infrastructure, and economic development projects as well as the federal grant and appropriations process for constituents in Mississippi.

Mallie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Policy Leadership and Political Science from the University of Mississippi where she received a Taylor Medal and was inducted into the Student Hall of Fame. She has served on the Trent Lott Leadership Institute Alumni Advisory Board, the Ole Miss Alumni Association Young Alumni Council, and the Mississippi Society of
D.C. Board of Directors.

English Faculty
The Nightingale-Bamford School
____________________

Margaret Garth is an award-winning educator, storyteller, and department leader who believes that language has the power to transform lives. A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, she earned both her B.A. in English Education and M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, experiences that shaped her belief that education is both an art and an act of service.

Over the past decade, Margaret has inspired students to think critically, write fearlessly, and engage empathetically with the world around them. She helped launch and lead the English Department at Innovation Academy, a nationally recognized STEM magnet high school in Atlanta, where she also chaired the School Governance Council and served as the inaugural AP Capstone Lead. She was recognized as an Atlanta Journal-Constitution Top 10 Teacher of the Year for her innovation and impact in the classroom.

Now based in New York City, Margaret teaches English at The Nightingale-Bamford School, where she continues to help students find their voices through storytelling and self-discovery. Whether guiding girls through their first essay or leading students abroad to see the world through a new lens, her mission remains the same: to ignite curiosity, compassion, and confidence through the written word, a passion first sparked at Ole Miss and carried into every classroom she’s ever taught.

Appellate Attorney, Tax Division
U.S. Department of Justice
____________________
Marie Wicks received Bachelor of Arts degrees in International Studies and French, minoring in Chemistry, from the University of Mississippi in 2012, and received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2016. She was a student in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and the Croft Institute for International Studies, and in 2012 she was inducted into the University of Mississippi Hall of Fame. Following college, Marie had the extraordinary honor of serving as Miss Mississippi 2012. After her year of service, she entered law school at Ole Miss, where she served as Editor-in-Chief of the Mississippi Law Journal and was a member of the Moot Court Board. Marie then clerked with the Honorable E. Grady Jolly with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals before joining the United States Department of Justice Tax Division in Washington, D.C., through the Attorney General Honors Program. Marie is currently an attorney in the Tax Division’s Appellate Section. She has enjoyed volunteering and staying involved in the Ole Miss Law School community, has served on the Ole Miss Law Alumni Board of Directors, and is currently serving as Chairman of the Mississippi Law Journal Board of Directors.

Affiliate Broker
Ware Jones Realtors
____________________

Martha is an affiliate broker with Ware Jones Realtors and a proud Memphis native, bringing over 15 years of real estate experience to her clients. While at Ole Miss, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business with a concentration in Marketing, and soon after began her real estate career in 2010. She is a member of the Memphis Area Association of Realtors Multi-Million Dollar Club, a distinction that reflects her commitment to excellence and consistent performance. Known for her client-focused approach, Martha prioritizes listening carefully to her clients’ goals and tailoring a strategic plan to meet their individual needs, whether buying or selling a home.

Outside of real estate, Martha enjoys spending time with her husband, and their two children, often at their beloved retreat, Pickwick Lake, or visiting Oxford to cheer on the Ole Miss Rebels. She is actively involved in her children’s schools, serving on the parent’s board at both, and she enjoys tennis, entertaining, and traveling. Martha remains committed to giving back through involvement with her church and various nonprofit organizations in the area including Carnival Memphis and Palmer Home for Children to name a few.

(BS 18, EdD 26)
OMAA staff since 2022

Senior Vice President
Babel Street
____________________
McDaniel Wicker is Senior Vice President of U.S. Government at Babel Street. In this role he leads the largest revenue team in the company, responsible for over half of the
company’s new business. McDaniel has served as a key leader in the company since 2020, joining the senior leadership team in 2022 and helping Babel Street triple in size. He brings a high level of foreign policy and national security experience to the company alongside his history of working in the Defense & Intelligence community. McDaniel is also an expert in Indo-Pacific security affairs with significant international experience. McDaniel has served for over a decade and a half in a variety of key officer roles within the United States Air Force and the United States Air Force Reserve prior to joining Babel Street, including
assignments with US Special Operations Command, Defense Intelligence Agency, and foreign allies. He previously served as an Asian Security Fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC. He holds degrees from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and the University of Mississippi's Croft Institute for International Studies.

McDaniel lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife Kellee and their three daughters.

(BAccy 93, MAccy 94)
OMAA staff since 2020

Associate Director of School and Library Marketing
HarperCollins Children's Books
____________________
Mimi Rankin is the Associate Director of School & Library Marketing at HarperCollins Children’s Books in New York City. A lifelong reader and advocate for children’s education, Mimi served as the Coordinator of Recruitment and Admissions for the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College before pursuing a master's degree in children’s literature at the University of Reading in the UK.
Recently named a Rising Star in the publishing industry by Publishers Weekly, Mimi is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion within the publishing industry and the literature it publishes, particularly for children.
She is also a member of the New York Junior League and Vice President of the Ole Miss Club of New York. In her free time, Mimi enjoys international travel, a love sparked by her semester abroad while at Ole Miss, and has visited over 30 countries.

Legislative Director
U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman
____________________
Murray Miller serves as the Legislative Director for Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee. In this role, she oversees the Congressman’s policy team, advises the Congressman on policy decisions, and advances his legislative agenda. She also manages Congressman Westerman’s role as the co-chair of multiple caucuses.
Prior to her current position, Murray served in the office of Congressman Michael Guest and on the government relations team at International Fresh Produce Association.
Before moving to Washington, Murray lived in Madrid,
Spain, where she taught at the American School of Madrid. A 2015 graduate of the University of Mississippi, Murray grew up in Jackson, Mississippi. Throughout her years in Washington, Murray has engaged in various volunteer roles in her community. She is the Recruitment Advisor at the Chi Omega
Chapter at George Washington University, and serves on Chi Omega’s National Recruitment Team.
Murray served as President of the D.C. Ole Miss Alumni Club for two years, just finished her service on the University’s Alumni Association Board of Directors and was previously part of the Ole Miss Young Alumni Council.
Murray is a member of Redemption Hill Church and lives on Capitol Hill in D.C.

Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Program Director of the Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellowship
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
____________________
Dr. My-Linh Ngo joined Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2017 as an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
and Pediatric Hospitalist. She completed her medical school training (2012) and residency in Pediatrics (2015) from the University of Mississippi, followed by a fellowship in Pediatric Hospital Medicine at the University of Texas (2017). Since joining Vanderbilt, Dr. Ngo has distinguished herself as an outstanding leader, clinician, and educator. She co-founded and has led the nationally recognized Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM) Fellowship program since its launch in 2019, serving as Program Director since 2021. Under her leadership, the PHM fellowship was among the first four programs nationally to gain accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.
Beyond her work at Vanderbilt, Dr. Ngo has played a key role in advancing PHM fellowship training nationally, serving on the Fellowship Director’s Council for the PHM Assessment Subcommittee since 2018. A respected clinician known for her evidence-based care, compassion, and communication skills, she was inducted into the Academy for Excellence in Clinical Medicine in 2023. In 2022, she was also inducted into the Academy for Excellence in Education for her leadership in curriculum design and educational innovation.
Dr. Ngo has led national initiatives to improve diversity, inclusivity, and program assessment in PHM. Passionate about medical education, her research focuses on professional identity formation and scholarly mentorship. She has presented her work at national and international conferences and has been an invited speaker at several academic institutions.

Associate Dean of Students | Belonging and Communities | Student Affairs
Vanderbilt University
____________________

Dr. Norris “EJ” Edney III is Associate Dean of Students for Belonging and Communities at Vanderbilt University, where he provides strategic leadership for five centers dedicated to fostering student connection, inclusion, and holistic success. A higher education leader with more than 16 years of experience, Dr. Edney has built a career centered on mentorship, institutional strategy, and the creation of environments where every student can thrive.

A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, Dr. Edney began his professional journey on campus as a member of the Multicultural Center Working Group, helping to establish the Center for Inclusion and Cross-Cultural Engagement. He later served as Director of that Center and Assistant Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion, co-authoring the Pathways to Equity five-year plan and leading major grant-funded initiatives supporting access and belonging.

Before joining Vanderbilt, Dr. Edney served as Vice President and Deputy Chief of Staff at Talladega College. His scholarship, The Collegiate Equity Mentoring Matrix, provides a framework for meaningful mentoring of Black males. Beyond his institutional leadership, he advises organizations on strategy and culture through The Canvas Firm.

He and his wife, Adrienne, reside in Nashville with their children, Rocky and Nora.

(BS 20)
OMAA staff since 2022

Founder and CEO
FLY CLOUD 9
____________________

Paris Pope is the Founder and CEO of FLY CLOUD 9, a private jet charter company headquartered in Palm Beach, Florida. Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Paris began her career on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. She later founded FLY CLOUD 9 in 2023 with a vision to elevate private aviation through trust, service, and meaningful client relationships. Under her leadership, FLY CLOUD 9 has experienced rapid growth, earning a reputation for delivering highly personalized aviation experiences to a distinguished clientele that includes members of the U.S. Senate and Congress, national media figures, entertainers, professional athletes, and corporate business leaders.

A 2016 graduate of the University of Mississippi, Paris earned a Bachelor of Science in Integrated Marketing and Communications with a minor in Business, graduating magna cum laude. Her time at Ole Miss played a pivotal role in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership philosophy. The values she cultivated as a student; integrity, service, and community, continue to serve as guiding principles in both her professional and personal life.

Beyond her business, Paris is deeply committed to philanthropy, with a focus on supporting pediatric initiatives and community development efforts. She credits the Ole Miss alumni network and the university’s enduring spirit as influential forces in her journey and is honored to represent those values through her leadership and service.

Master’s in sport management (’14)

Bachelor’s in nursing (’08)
Master’s in nursing (’13)
DNP (’25)

Short Bio Start

Oxford, MS
Assistant Dean for Student

................................................................

And here

This is a lot to type
out but here I go making something
long
and
that takes up a lot of space
why didn't I
just use a
Lorem
Ipsum?
Short Bio End

Bachelor’s in sociology (’12)

Owner and Physician
Robb Facial Plastic Surgery
____________________
Dr. Robb Jr. is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Atlanta, Georgia, recognized for his innovative techniques, artistic precision, and commitment to natural, elegant results. A native of Alpharetta, Dr. Robb’s journey in medicine is deeply rooted in both academic excellence and a passion for helping others look and feel their best. His path began at Marist High School, followed by the University of Mississippi, where he was inducted into the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and graduated Magna Cum Laude, earning numerous awards, honors, and scholarships along the way. From there, he returned to his home state of Georgia to attend medical school at the Medical College of Georgia (MCG), further solidifying his foundation in surgical excellence.
Dr. Robb then completed his highly competitive Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery training at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, where he honed his expertise in both the function and aesthetics of the face. Following residency, he was hand-selected by one of the nation’s most respected facial plastic surgeons for an elite, year-long fellowship in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery—an experience that refined his skills and shaped his approach to achieving timeless, natural looking results.
Dr. Robb’s faith is at the core of his practice, influencing not only his surgical integrity but also the way he connects with each patient.
At Robb Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, Dr. Robb has built a comprehensive wellness and aesthetic center, complete with a fully accredited, state-of-the-art surgery facility. His philosophy focuses on refinement over transformation, helping patients achieve subtle, natural enhancements—what he calls “sneaky tweaks.”
Dr. Robb is widely known for two signature procedures:
-Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty – Using cutting-edge technology, this advanced approach to rhinoplasty is a gentler, more precise technique that results in less bruising, less pain, and faster recovery—all with superior, natural-looking outcomes.
- The Facial Refresh – A customized rejuvenation of the face, eyes, and neck, designed to restore vibrancy and youthfulness while maintaining the unique character of each patient’s features.
Beyond the Operating Room Dr. Robb lives in Alpharetta, Georgia, with his wife and their three daughters, ages 10, 8, and 6. When he’s not in the OR, he’s fully immersed in family life and an active lifestyle. He’s a passionate SEC football fan, road cyclist, triathlete, golfer, and guitarist —and he never misses an opportunity to be outdoors. The Robb family is also deeply involved in their church, where they find joy in serving their community.
With a unique blend of technical expertise, artistry, and compassionate care, Dr. Robb has earned a reputation as a leader in facial plastic surgery—one who understands that true beauty lies in subtle refinement, confidence, and the ability to feel like the best version of yourself.

Chief Financial Officer/Vice President Finance & Business
The Citadel
____________________

Preethi Saint is the Chief Financial Officer/Vice President – Finance & Business at The Citadel. She oversees key administrative and financial functions, including Auxiliary services, Budget, Financial Service, Human Resources, and Procurement. In this role, she leads strategic financial planning, ensures responsible stewardship of institutional resources, and plays a central role in advancing the long-term financial health and operational success of the college.

Preethi earned her Master of Accountancy and her Accountancy degree with honors from The University of Mississippi, where she was also a member of the women’s tennis team. This experience instilled in her a profound work ethic and a determination to excel, traits that have propelled her through successive milestones in her career.

Preethi is a Certified Public Accountant with more than 15 years of experience in higher education finance and public accounting. Before joining The Citadel, she spent 11 years at KPMG. During this time, she focused on providing assurance services and was part of the national practice. She participated in the esteemed NACUBO Fellows program in 2022-2023.

Preethi is married to her husband, Brandon, and they have two young sons, Douglas(6) and David(2). Outside of work, Preethi enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Assistant Dean for Student Success and Retention,
UM School of Engineering
____________________
Dr. Rachael Durham currently serves as the Assistant Dean for Student Success and Retention with the School of Engineering at the University of Mississippi. She has served in various capacities at the University of Mississippi for 16 years, working previously with admissions and campus visits to working with new freshmen and the first-year seminar program. Rachael graduated from UM in 2008 with a B.A. in Journalism, 2012 with an M.A. in Higher Education, and in 2023 with an Ed.D. in Higher Education. Her love for UM and its students has shaped her career to what it is today, and she enjoys getting to be a helping hand, smiling face, and listening ear for her students. She currently lives in Oxford, MS with her husband, Matt, and her two boys, Grady and Logan.

Partner
Segura Neuroscience and Pain Center

____________________
Richard Covey Robertson Jr., M.D. is a board certified Anesthesiologist and Interventional Pain Management physician.

A Jackson, Mississippi native, Dr. Robertson has a long family history at Ole Miss dating back to 1907 when his second great-granduncle Andrew Kincannon served as chancellor of the University. Following his 2008 graduation from Ole Miss, Dr. Robertson pursued a medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine.

During medical school, Dr. Robertson served as a board member of the Mississippi State Medical Association and was chosen to receive both the Virginia Stansel Tolbert Award and the Carl Gustav Evers Award for outstanding leadership. Dr. Robertson then completed his residency in anesthesiology at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. While at Ochsner, he was elected and served as the President of the Resident Fellows Association. He was one of nine anesthesia residents in the nation to receive a Society for Education in Anesthesia Health Volunteers Overseas Fellowship. This award allowed Dr. Robertson to teach anesthesia in Malawi, Africa, during part of his senior year of training. He further specialized his training by completing an interventional pain management fellowship at Carolinas Pain Institute and Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

As an interventional pain management specialist, Dr. Robertson has received national recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctors Award recipient. Castle Connolly Top Doctors represent the top 7% of all U.S. practicing physicians. Dr. Robertson’s goal is to reduce and alleviate acute and chronic pain in order to improve function and quality of life.

Dr. Robertson now lives and practices in Covington, Louisiana. He looks forward to bringing his five children to Oxford and continuing the family legacy of love for Ole Miss.

(BBA 01)
OMAA staff since 2001

Assistant Dean for Student Life, Diversity and Inclusion
Millsaps College
____________________
A veteran higher education administrator, Dr. Ryan Upshaw serves as Assistant Dean for Student Life at Millsaps College. While a student at Ole Miss, he was elected as a campus favorite and chosen to the 2006 Student Hall of Fame. With professional experience that spans enrollment management, academic and student affairs, he has served nearly two decades in the field of higher education. Upshaw’s work has been recognized with the Frist Student Service Award and the Donald Cole Award for Excellence in Mentoring.
A proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., he was named Collegiate Chapter Advisor of the Year for the State of Mississippi. Upshaw was also named “Top 50 Under 40” by the Mississippi Business Journal and Volunteer of the Year by Volunteer Mississippi. A life member of the Ole Miss Alumni Association, he has remained active with the university serving on the Young Alumni Council, Black Alumni Advisory Council, School of Education Advisory Board and the Fraternity & Sorority Life Advisory Board. He is currently serving as president of the Central Mississippi Ole Miss Alumni Board. In Jackson, he serves on the boards of the Mississippi Food Network and Big House Books. He is currently participating in the 36th class of Leadership Greater Jackson and previously participated in Leadership Lafayette. Professionally, he is active with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, the Southern Association of College Student Affairs, the Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors and the Association for Student Conduct Administrators.

Clinical Assistant Professor
UM School of Education
____________________
Dr. Sam Gilbert earned both her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and her master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Mississippi. Her teaching career began in the South Panola School District as a second-grade teacher.
Gilbert continued her education by earning a Ph.D. in Elementary Education from the University of Mississippi. Her dissertation explored the use of a Rubik’s Cube as a tool for teaching grit and growth mindset through deliberate practice, showcasing her passion for helping all students reach their full potential through innovative, hands-on learning strategies.
Gilbert is actively involved in the community, serving as the Education and Scholarship Chairman for the Junior Auxiliary of Oxford, MS, and as the Reading Pals Project Chair, where she leads a partnership with Della Davidson Elementary School to support young readers.
Her accolades include Oxford Eagle’s Top 20 under 40 (2024), Summer Dissertation Fellowship Award (2021), Mid-South Educational Research in Progress Award (2020), Outstanding Doctoral Student in Elementary Education (2018), and Teacher of the Year (2015-2016). Gilbert has contributed to elementary curriculum development, serving on the Mississippi Department of Education's HQIM Curriculum Committee and Exemplary Unit Writing Committee. Additionally, she helped develop Reading Universe, an online resource for educators, by writing skill explainers and creating student practice activities to support structured literacy instruction.
Currently, Gilbert is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the School of Education at the University of Mississippi where she serves as the Elementary Education Program Coordinator and TeachLive Director. She and her husband are proud parents to three little ones—three-year-old twins and a one-year-old. They are active members of Pinelake Church and love calling Oxford home, never missing a chance to cheer on the Rebels—Hotty Toddy!

Chief Financial Officer
The BlackChamber Group
____________________

Samantha Porter Giunta joined The BlackChamber Group as the Chief Financial Officer in October 2019 – a month prior to inception of its first private real estate investment fund. As a new fund manager to the market, BlackChamber has raised more than $2 billion in less than six years from well-respected institutional investors, including multiple Fortune 100 insurance companies, to capitalize the development of build-to-suit data center campuses that are wholly leased to the largest hyperscale cloud service providers.

BlackChamber is a vertically integrated developer and SEC registered investment advisor with approximately $2.7 billion assets under management. In its short tenure, BlackChamber has acquired approximately 490 acres of land with the capacity to develop approximately 8.1 million square feet of data centers in Northern Virgina, the world’s largest data center market, and signed six leases with one of the world’s largest technology companies.

Prior to joining BlackChamber, she was the controller at ASB Real Estate Investments, a division of ASB Capital Management located in Bethesda, MD, an established real estate investment management firm with $8.1 billion in assets under management from over 340 private institutional clients. In that role, she was the controller of a core open-end fund, a separate account owned by a union affiliated pension fund, and a value-add, closed-end fund. Cumulatively, those vehicles owned 190 assets with 15.7 million rentable square feet across multiple product types – office, multifamily, retail, and industrial.

Before transitioning into private equity, Samantha began her career as an external auditor at Deloitte.

Samantha is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Treasury Professional (inactive) and holds both a Bachelor’s (2008) and Master’s of Accountancy (2009) from the University of Mississippi. She was recognized by BizNow, CREW, and Bozzuto at their 2024 Women Leading Real Estate awards in Washington, DC as Innovator of the Year for her leadership in driving positive change and innovation in commercial real estate.

In her personal time, Samantha enjoys playing tennis and pickleball, chairing social and fundraising events for the PTA, and watching her two sons, Porter (8) and Archie (4), play soccer, lacrosse, and baseball. During her senior year (2008) at Ole Miss, Samantha was the proud Editor-in-Chief of The Ole Miss yearbook.

Head of Preschool
Jackson Academy
____________________
Sandra Triplett earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2013 and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 2014 from the University of Mississippi. She is a fourth-generation graduate of Ole Miss.
Sandra returned to her alma mater Jackson Academy in 2014 to begin her teaching career as a fourth-grade teacher. She was awarded Lower School Teacher of the Year in 2018-2019. Sandra taught in the classroom for 7 years before moving into an administrator role. Sandra currently serves as the Head of the Preschool at Jackson Academy.
She is an active member of the Junior League of Jackson and Northminster Baptist Church. She is married to Rob Triplett. They have a five-year-old daughter named Elizabeth who loves any chance she gets to go to an Ole Miss event.

(BS 21, MS 23)
OMAA staff since 2021

International Tax Partner
Deloitte
____________________

Scott Stewart is a New York City based International Tax Partner for Deloitte Tax LLP. He has over eight years of experience with Deloitte in London, United Kingdom, and over seven years in New York. Scott is the United States Inbound Tax Leader and has substantial experience in advising clients on acquisitions, business expansion and transition management, on-going tax compliance, and disposals of investments. He has also led a number of finance optimization and foreign tax credit utilization projects. He is a Georgia and New York licensed CPA and holds a Bachelors in Accountancy and Masters of Taxation from Ole Miss.

Scott married his Ole Miss sweetheart, Katie Clore Stewart, and lives with Katie in Darien, Connecticut. They have two daughters, Sloane and Parker, and they love spending their time exploring New England or going into New York City with all it has to offer.

(BA 97, MA 08)
OMAA staff since 2003

Physician Assistant
Ochsner Health
____________________

Sonya Coleman, PA-C, is a Physician Assistant at Ochsner Health in New Orleans, Louisiana. With nearly a decade of experience in primary care, she is recognized for her professionalism, clinical excellence, and genuine empathy.

A native of Cleveland, Mississippi, Sonya earned her Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from the University of Mississippi and her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center–Shreveport.

She has been honored for her leadership and service, receiving Ochsner’s Ed Martin’s Core Values Award and being named Preceptor of the Year by LSU Health Sciences Center–Shreveport. At Ochsner, she partners with patients to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, emphasizing prevention, education, and whole-person wellness. Her work reflects a strong commitment to expanding access to compassionate, equitable healthcare across diverse communities.

A proud Ole Miss alumna, Sonya continues to embody the university’s spirit of leadership, service, and excellence. This foundation Ole Miss helped build continues to guide her every day — evident in the exam room with her patients, among her colleagues at Ochsner, and throughout the New Orleans community she is honored to serve.

Owner and Founder
Richards Bespoke
____________________
Stephen Richards, Jr. is the owner & founder of Richards Bespoke, a custom clothing company founded in Nashville, TN, in 2016. He has grown his company to be one of the most- respected men’s fashion brands in the country, winning numerous awards and obtaining some of the world’s highest-profile clients. Some of his most recognized accomplishments include designing and creating Patrick Mahomes’ ensemble for the 2019 & 2022 NFL Honors where he received the National Football League’s Most Valuable Player Award and Tua Tagovailo’s draft suit when he was selected 5th overall by the Miami Dolphins in 2020. Richards is also the designer for all of Patrick Mahomes’ away game suits for each NFL season, including each Super Bowl he’s played in. Other notable clients include Travis Kelce, AJ Brown, Lane Kiffin, Evan Engram. Richards Bespoke has been featured in numerous national publications including People Magazine, GQ, USA Today, Sports Illustrated, Vanity Fair, ESPN, Fox News, and Martha Stewart Weddings.

(BA 92)
OMAA staff since 2011

(BSFCS 09, MA 11)
OMAA staff since 2013

OMAA staff since 2008

Transplant and Nephrology Clinical Pharmacist
U.S. Renal Care/Kidneylink
____________________
Taylor Sparkman is a clinical pharmacist for US Renal Care where she collaborates with nephrologists to optimize medications for patients living with chronic kidney disease and kidney transplant. She received a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences followed by a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. Taylor continued her education by completing a PGY1 pharmacy practice residency at TriStar Centennial Medical Center and a PGY2 residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital where she specialized in solid organ transplantation. Upon completion of residency, Taylor worked at UAB Hospital as a solid organ transplant clinical pharmacist managing all aspects of pharmaceutical care for transplant recipients. She is involved in national nephrology and transplant pharmacy organizations working to collect and analyze information from transplant pharmacists across the country to improve job satisfaction and resiliency to reduce burnout. Taylor has participated in clinical research leading to publication and has been awarded for her research at a national transplant conference. Since moving back to Oxford, she has joined the Junior Auxiliary of Oxford where she serves children in need in the community and is a proud Tri Delta alumnus serving as a Tri Delta advisor.

Associate, Baker Botts
____________________
Teresa Jones is an environmental attorney whose career spans government, private practice, and community advocacy. She currently practices at Baker Botts LLP, where she advises corporate clients on environmental compliance, regulatory enforcement, incident response, and high-stakes transactions. Her work often involves complex legal issues at the intersection of federal and state environmental laws, and she has played a key role in internal investigations and strategic regulatory counsel.
Teresa’s legal journey is marked by her deep commitment to public service and policy. Before entering private practice, she honed her expertise through roles at the White House, the U.S. Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Agency ("EPA"), where she worked on critical environmental justice initiatives and regulatory matters. Her time in government gave her a broad perspective on law making, enforcement, and the ways in which policy decisions shape communities.
Beyond her legal practice, Teresa is an advocate for environmental and economic justice. She has founded Black Women in Environmental Law ("BWEL"), the first organization dedicated to supporting Black women attorneys in environmental and energy law. She also spearheaded a groundbreaking pro bono driver's license restoration clinic in Louisiana, assisting 150 individuals in reclaiming their mobility and legal standing—an initiative that contributed to her firm earning the 2024 Koch Pro Bono Partner of the Year award. Her leadership extends into community service, including her appointment to the Emergency Recovery Commission in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, where she led recovery efforts after a devastating tornado. She also founded Girls Achieving, Leading, and Succeeding, a mentoring program for young women in Mississippi, underscoring her commitment to uplifting the next generation.
Recognized for her legal acumen and leadership, Teresa has received numerous accolades, including earning the Kim Keenan Advocacy and Leadership Award from the Washington Bar Association. She is frequently invited to speak on environmental and energy law, voter engagement, and leadership development.
A “double rebel,” Teresa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and English from the University of Mississippi, reflecting her lifelong passion for law and governments. She also received her law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law.
Through every stage of her career, Teresa has been a bridge between legal expertise, government service, and grassroots advocacy, demonstrating an unwavering dedication to justice, community empowerment, and the future of environmental law.

Partner, Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon
Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists
____________________
Dr. Thomas T. Wood is an Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon from Madison, MS. He is a partner at Louisiana Orthopaedic Specialists (LOS) and performs a variety of surgical procedures for foot and ankle reconstruction.
While at the University of Mississippi, Dr. Wood was president of the Ole Miss Rugby Football Club and graduated Magna cum Laude as a Barksdale Honors Scholar. He went on to obtain his medical degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center where he was elected into the Carl G. Evers Society and served on the ASB Council.
Dr. Wood then served 9 years as an Orthopaedic Surgeon in the United States Air Force where he was an Assistant Professor of Surgery and Flight Commander. He deployed in support of Operations Inherent Resolve and Spartan Shield, and served as Surgeon General of the 378th Expeditionary Medical Group. After honorable discharge, he pursued additional subspecialty training in Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgery where he was trained by leading experts at the prestigious Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction in Baltimore, MD.
Dr. Wood resides in Lafayette, LA with his wife, Caitie, and their sons.

(BSCJ 13)
OMAA staff since 2018

Counterintelligence Agent/Assistant Force Protection Attache, Office of Special Investigations
Department of the Air Force
____________________
Special Agent (SA) Tracy DePriest is a counterintelligence agent and currently serving as the Assistant Force Protection Attaché at the Force Protection Detachment, U.S. Embassy Branch Office Tel Aviv, Israel. She joined a staff of four personnel, which provides federal law enforcement and counterintelligence functional services to Department of Defense personnel and resources spanning the West Bank and Israel. FPD Israel builds strategic partnerships with host nation law enforcement, intelligence, defense, and security professionals to better enable and support the warfighter.

SA DePriest earned a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Mississippi and a Master of Arts Degree in Intelligence Operations from American Military University. She also holds a Graduate Certification in Intelligence Analysis from American Military University. Additionally, SA DePriest previously served as a Logistics Platoon Commander in the United States Marine Corps.

As a credentialed agent at OSI Det 411, Sheppard AFB, TX, SA DePriest was lead agent on multiple criminal cases to include sexual assaults, domestic violent extremists, and death investigations. SA DePriest deployed in support of Operations Allies Welcome where she provided federal law enforcement and counterintelligence support following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. SA DePriest ensured the security of the host base and a mobilized U.S. Northern Command task force of eight hundred DoD, other government agencies, and non-government organization members facilitating the resettlement of thousands of Afghan refugees.

As the Assistant Attaché, SA DePriest supported the warfighter in a kinetic and demanding environment. SA DePriest recognized the opportunity to increase integrated defenses through dozens of assessments for frequented destinations of DoD High Risk Personnel. SA DePriest created joint processes with Country Team members to capture and produce valuable counterintelligence information. SA DePriest has on numerous occasions leveraged host nation security contacts and local expertise to coordinate the evacuation of DoD personnel from hostile zones under indirect fire, which resulted in the safety of hundreds of DoD personnel and naval warships. During the current Israeli-Hamas War (Operation Swords of Iron), SA DePriest was responsible for providing Country Team leadership and senior DoD leaders with time-sensitive intelligence, enabling them to make informed decisions and plan for future operations. Additionally, she identified and disseminated real-time threat information to DoD personnel located in Israel through a novel approach she created and managed. In October 2023, Country Team leadership selected SA DePriest to lead and coordinate the evacuation of 2,200 American citizens from the Port of Haifa. While under indirect fire, SA DePriest coordinated with host nation security services to safeguard these departing American citizens. SA DePriest played a crucial role in delivering counterintelligence and force protection support for the Department of Defense's humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza. This marked the first-ever implementation of the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore operations in an active combat zone. Finally, SA DePriest established a robust layered security framework by fostering strong liaisons and collaboration with host nation partners, enhancing the protection of the joint U.S. and Israeli integrated air defense system, including the CENTCOM-deployed Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), against numerous ballistic missile attacks from Iran and its proxy groups.

Vice President Operational Excellence
Senior Aerospace Group
____________________

Tyler Kidd is a strategic leader, entrepreneur, and community builder whose career spans global manufacturing leadership and diverse business ventures. He currently serves as Vice President of Operational Excellence at Senior Aerospace Group, where he drives performance improvements across 21 international and domestic facilities and leads more than 3,500 employees. Known for his ability to transform organizations, Tyler has delivered multimillion-dollar gains in productivity, supply chain performance, and profitability while mentoring future leaders and strengthening organizational culture.

Beyond his corporate career, Tyler is the owner of several holding companies with business interests in retail, hospitality, real estate development, property management, restoration and construction across Mississippi and Louisiana. His ventures—including restaurants, breweries, boutiques, and commercial and residential developments—create jobs, revitalize communities, and contribute to local economic growth. In addition, Tyler has founded two charitable organizations that contribute over $100,000 each year to military, first responders, and their families.

A two-time graduate of the University of Mississippi with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, Tyler credits Ole Miss with instilling the values of perseverance, service, and leadership that guide his work today. He serves on the NFIB MS Leadership Council and the board of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence, sharing his expertise at international conferences.

Tyler lives in Pass Christian, Mississippi with his wife, Kaitlyn (BBA ‘10), and their two young sons, James and Luke.

Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer
Milwaukee Tool
____________________

Valencia L. Alexander was born and raised in Olive Branch, Mississippi, and proudly represents a legacy of academic excellence as a second-generation graduate of the University of Mississippi, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 2015. She later obtained a Master of Science in Engineering Management from Christian Brothers University, further strengthening her leadership and technical expertise.

With a dynamic engineering background spanning conceptual design, product service engineering, continuous improvement, and project management, Valencia has successfully led domestic and international initiatives that drive innovation and operational efficiency. Her career is marked by a commitment to excellence and continuous growth, recognized through honors such as the FedEx Women in Leadership Association Award, Emerging Leaders distinction at Milwaukee Tool, and the University of Mississippi’s Young Alumni Spotlight.

Beyond her professional achievements, Valencia is deeply passionate about mentorship and community engagement, dedicating her time to inspiring young people to pursue STEM careers. She also enjoys cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels football team and spending quality time with her husband, Captain Alfondus Alexander, and their family.
Valencia embodies leadership, innovation, and service—qualities that define the next generation of influential professionals.

Political Unit Chief, Office of India and Bhutan Affairs
U.S. Department of State
____________________
Vinod Kannuthurai joined the Office of India and Bhutan Affairs at the U.S Department of State in August 2018. He currently serves as the Political Unit Chief and is a mid-career Civil Service Officer. Vinod serves as the desk lead on Indian domestic political issues and has oversight over India’s external relations, defense and security issues, consular and management issues, and Congressional relations.
A native Mississippian with family roots in southern India, Vinod is married and is the proud dad of an adorable and trouble-seeking toddler.

Events Supervisor
ESPN
____________________
Whitley Simmons is a seasoned sports professional with over 14 years of diverse experience. A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, she discovered her passion for sports during an impactful internship with the sports marketing department. She continued her education at Xavier University where she received her master’s in sport administration. Currently at ESPN, Whitley serves as an Event Supervisor and helps manage a selection of ESPN’s 34 owned and operated events, including the Bahamas Bowl, Clearwater Invitational and the historic 2022 Armed Forces Classic aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.
Her role encompasses everything from event conception to execution, ensuring unforgettable experiences for student-athletes and fans.
Previously, as the Business Development and Community Relations Manager for the ACC Championships, Whitley led ticket sales for football, women’s basketball, and baseball championships, achieving significant growth in revenue and attendance while enhancing fan engagement. A standout moment in her career was working during the Tokyo Olympics, overseeing logistics for a TOP sponsor activation amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Passionate about mentoring, Whitley actively engages with college students and recent graduates, sharing insights and inspiring the next generation of sports leaders. Whitley currently resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband and two dogs.

Associate Attorney
Baker Donelson
____________________

William Wildman is an Associate at Baker Donelson in New Orleans, where he counsels clients across the health care, telecommunications, construction, and energy sectors on complex civil litigation and white-collar matters. He has served as trial counsel in multimillion-dollar jury cases, defending clients in breach of contract, class actions, antitrust, and regulatory disputes. William regularly represents clients in federal and state investigations, including DOJ and FBI matters, with a focus on health care fraud and False Claims Act issues. He is actively involved in pro bono work and leadership roles, serving on The Pro Bono Project Board of Directors and participating in bar associations and community organizations in New Orleans. William’s background includes higher education administration at Tulane University and the University of Mississippi, community engagement for Apple, Inc., and research fellowships in public health law. He holds both a B.A. and M.A. from the University of Mississippi and a J.D. from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law and is professionally proficient in French. William is nationally recognized for his commitment to legal excellence, mentorship, and service to the community and profession having been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for 2026.