Second Cohort of Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy Announced
JONESBORO – The second class of the Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy is comprised of 25 women from across the Delta. The program, sponsored by Arkansas State University, hosted its first class this year with the purpose of increasing the knowledge, leadership skills, and capability of each of the participants.
The academy is led by Andrea Allen, executive director of the Delta Center for Economic Development at A-State, Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication, and program coordinator Cari White.
“I'm super excited about welcoming our second cohort. I loved watching our inaugural group connect with each other and hone their leadership skills,“ said Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication.
The 2025 cohort will have six meetings throughout the year, beginning with the initial meeting in January on campus at A-State.
“Year one of the Arkansas Delta Women's Leadership Academy was an inspiring journey, filled with powerful moments of growth, collaboration and leadership development,” said Allen. “Our first cohort of women has not only strengthened their skills in key areas like project management and community engagement but has also forged a network of support that will have a lasting impact on the region.”
The second cohort will hold meetings at locations throughout the Delta, including El Dorado, Batesville, Searcy, Blytheville and Little Rock where graduation will be held.
“I want the 2025 class and those thinking about applying to the program to know that they will engage an array of dynamic community leaders as a part of their journey and will grow their network of women leaders from across the Arkansas Delta,” Jones-Branch continued.
Members of the first group will also be available throughout the year to offer guidance to the new class of female leaders.
“As we enter year two, we are energized by the opportunity to expand this transformative experience, and we are eager to see how the next group of women will build on the foundation laid by their predecessors," Allen added. "The leadership we are cultivating today will shape the future of the Delta for generations to come.”
The 2025 class includes the following women:
Craighead County
Rayna Kingston of Jonesboro is listener engagement specialist at KASU at Arkansas State University.
Jennifer Francher of Jonesboro is director of marketing and business development at Success Credit Union.
Veronica Guinn of Jonesboro is an etiquette and leadership consultant at her own company.
Nesha Guest of Brookland is a community development officer at Farmers and Merchants Bank.
Dr. Tameka Bailey of Jonesboro is an assistant professor of biological sciences at A-State.
Molly Alexander-Steele of Jonesboro is the executive director of Research Development at A-State.
Dr. Tiffany Mosley of Jonesboro is director of Institutional Integrity and Title IX at A-State.
Crittenden County
JaLeesa Shears of Marion is the CEO and owner of Knew Mindset, LLC.
Jessica Jefferson of Marion is a professional school counselor at Marion Seventh Grade Academy.
Beth Wilson of Marion is director of economic development for the City of Marion.
Cross County
Heather Baker of Wynne is the vice president of clinical services for the Southeast region of Arisa Health.
Alexis Gahr of Wynne is marketing and membership manager at Cross County Chamber of Commerce.
Greene County
Trēka Clark of Paragould is the division chair of business and technology and director of assessment and institutional research at Crowley’s Ridge College.
Independence County
Kendall Barron of Cave City is a clinical services manager at UAMS North Central.
Hannah St. John of Cave City is a special educator at Cedar Ridge School District.
Mississippi County
Tammy Winstead of Blytheville is the CEO of True Love Designs, LLC.
Stacie Malone of Wilson is the city clerk for the City of Wilson.
Phillips County
Angela Ward of Lexa is a registered nurse at UAMS.
Pulaski County
Adriana Fuentes Archila of Little Rock is vice president of community development for the Arkansas Capitol Corporation.
Linda Morgan of Jacksonville is a homeless shelter program manager for the Arkansas Department of Health.
Josette Boons of Little Rock is a sexual violence prevention and education program manager for the Arkansas Department of Health.
Phyllis Hodges of Little Rock is an author and fitness specialist at Carousel Fit 4 Life.
Tania Martinez of Little Rock is a business consultant for the Arkansas Small Business Technology Development Center.
Akissi Brooks of Sherwood is the owner of Ambitious Girl Avenue.
Tina Hunter of Little Rock is a grant writer and administrator at The Centers Arkansas.
