Board Members

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 Yonti Brown is a native of Birmingham and is currently employed as a Senior Technology Planning Analyst with Southern Company. She earned her Bachelor’s in Computer Science from Auburn University. Prior to joining Southern Company in 2015, she held various roles within the medical and construction sectors. In the community, she has served on the Board of Directors and Junior Board of Directors for both Girl Inc. of Central Alabama and YWCA Central Alabama. She, her husband, Chris, and their daughter, reside in Trussville. 

Chanell Daniel joined the UAB Medicine Human Resources team in March 2020 and was appointed as Director of Human Resources for Cooper Green Mercy Health Services, an affiliate of UAB Health System. She is adept at talent management, employee relations, organizational development, and DEI. Chanell holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (Human Resource Management concentration) and is a certified Professional in Human Resources (SHRM-CP). She holds certificates in Change Management and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. She is also a Certified DISC Behavior Analyst (CDBA). She is known for her strong leadership skills and dedication to fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

  Francine Fenderson received a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She also received a Master of Social Work graduate degree from the University of Alabama, where she received a Master Scholar honor. Ms. Fenderson is licensed at the master social work level. She has 30 years of child welfare experience and most recently held the position of JCDHR director until retirement. Ms. Fenderson is a graduate of the Leadership Birmingham Class of 2022. Ms. Fenderson currently serves on the AmeriCorp Board of Directors. 

   Lawrence McGhee is native of Talladega, AL. Mr. McGhee holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Soil Science from Alabama A&M University (1982) and Master’s Degree in Agronomy from Purdue University (1986). McGhee is a registered Soil Classifier in the state of Alabama. He retired from USDA-National Resources Conservation as a State Soil Scientist in 2020 after 35 years. He also a retired Veteran from the U.S. Army Reserves, serving over 22 years. He served in the Iraq Freedom War 2003-2004. Mr. McGhee currently serves on the City of Sylacauga Planning Commission. He also services as a Deacon and Church Clerk at Mt. Home Baptist Church in Sycamore, AL. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. And Talladega County, Alabama A & M University Alumni Association. Mr. McGhee is married to Jennie Gaddis McGhee and they have four wonderful children and five precious grandchildren. 

 Naseem brings a diverse background in healthcare administration and operations, with an MBA and MHA from Eastern Michigan University. Naseem’s experience includes leadership roles in adult day care, adult foster care and medical transportation, where he focused improving service quality, supporting staff, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Currently, Naseem serves as the Director of Rehabilitation Services at UAB Medicine, leading initiatives to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Naseem has also contributed to non-profit startups, assisting with fundraising efforts and organizational improvements. As a volunteer board member, Naseem is committed to using his skills to support the organization’s mission, foster collaboration, and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Moriel Purnell is a 21- year educator who has devoted her life to improving learning for students and providing mentorship and professional development to fellow educators. After completing a double major in Computer Science and Mathematics at Talladega College, she began her career in education by teaching middle school mathematics. Moriel transitioned to the role of math coaching and has served the last nine years as instructional coach across disciplines.
 

Moriel holds a Master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and an Educational Specialist degree from Jacksonville State University.  She earned National Board Certification in Early Adolescence Mathematics and an Instructional Leadership Certification from the University of Montevallo. Moriel is an active member of several professional organizations, Including the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), the Alabama Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ACTM), and the National Education Association (NEA).

Reginald Smith brings over 13 years of experience in banking, finance, and community development. He is passionate about helping corporations, state governments, and local municipalities support small businesses through innovative programs and strategic partnerships.

Throughout his career, Reginald has held key leadership roles, including Managing Director at Sabre Finance, Assistant Vice President and Business Banking Officer at BBVA Compass, and Vice President - SBA Banker at Regions. Today, he serves as the Principal Consultant at AlignWise, where he continues to drive impactful solutions for clients and communities alike.