Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Teletia Atkins is a Sikeston, Missouri resident, and a passionate advocate for equity, housing, and community well-being in Southeast Missouri. As a Community Liaison for Missouri Foundation for Health (MFH), she serves as the Foundation’s connection to communities across the Bootheel and beyond, ensuring that local voices and lived experiences guide philanthropic strategies and decision-making.
Teletia holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Central Methodist University and a Community Health Worker Certification from Southeast Missouri State University. Her approach blends data-driven insight with deep community relationships to drive lasting change. Prior to MFH, she worked with Bootheel Babies & Families, managing infant health data to address disparities, and with ParentLink at the University of Missouri, helping families navigate complex care systems.
Through Neighborhood Leadership Fellows, Teletia seeks to deepen her capacity to address affordable and transitional housing challenges in her hometown. She envisions Southeast Missouri where every resident, especially those in historically underserved areas, has access to safe housing, opportunity, and a true sense of belonging. Grounded in empathy, collaboration, and purpose, Teletia’s leadership is guided by the belief that lasting equity begins with community voice.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Barry Blevins is driven by a passion for building stronger, more connected, and sustainable communities. As the Community Development Director for the City of Sikeston, Missouri, he leads the city’s planning, zoning, and development efforts, collaborating with residents, developers, and local leaders to create lasting impact and guide Sikeston’s thoughtful, long-term growth. With over 20 years of experience in construction management and community development, Barry knows how to turn big ideas into real progress. Before entering municipal government, he served as a Project Superintendent and Facility Manager, overseeing multimillion-dollar construction projects and leading teams that delivered results. His hands-on experience in infrastructure, environmental management, and regulatory compliance informs his practical yet strategic approach to improving the quality of life for Sikeston’s residents.
Known for his approachable leadership and collaborative spirit, Barry believes community development is about more than structures; it’s about creating places where people and businesses can thrive. He’s a natural connector who brings teams together and turns ideas into action. Barry has earned a reputation as a trusted partner who follows through and delivers results.
Beyond City Hall, Barry serves as Vice Chairman of Scott County Transit and the University of Missouri–Scott County Extension Council, as well as on the Historic Downtown Sikeston Board. Statewide, he serves as Vice President of the Missouri Association of Code Enforcement and is a member of the SAVE Coalition board.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Dr. Calvin is a native of Mississippi who now resides in Sikeston, MO with his wife of 27 years Charvette Calvin; they have six children, 9 grandchildren & 1 angel-grandson. He has made many accomplishments including furthering his education beyond high school. He is a Certified Mental Health Advisor; has an Associate’s Degree in Transportation and Biblical Studies, a Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, a Master’s Degree in Christian & Marital Counseling, and in 2014, he fulfilled his dream of receiving his Doctorate Degree with honors in Theology. Dr. Calvin is a local pastor and a visionary for his community. His church provides services to the local community through their food pantry, clothing closet, Biblical College, counseling services, and a Drug Recovery Center for Men. His church is now making future plans to build ore to accommodate his community. Dr. Calvin has been a minister of the gospel for over 25 years and his preaching enables the message of Christ to transcend racial, age, and gender barriers. In 2020, he was elevated as a Bishop in the Church. He has recently been appointed a Chaplain of The Missouri State Highway Patrol. His inspirational messages are able to reach out to all generations helping them to understand and apply the teachings of Christ in their lives.
He motivates others by letting them know that they have the power through Jesus Christ to change their circumstances and to strive for greatness in their lives, knowing that YOUR NOW IS NOT YOUR LATER!
Mississippi County- Charleston, MO
Todd Clodfelter is a consultant, community leader, and creative entrepreneur with more than four decades of experience in business, politics, and civic engagement. A former Arizona State Representative, he has built a career at the intersection of policy, leadership, and grassroots development. Today, he serves as Executive Director of the Charleston Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, where he drives initiatives to revitalize Southeast Missouri’s communities, promote local business, and celebrate regional heritage through events like the Dogwood-Azalea Festival.
Beyond civic leadership, Todd is an entrepreneur and brand-builder, developing innovative platforms such as ShirtHappens.com, local tourism campaigns, and regional vendor networks. His vision combines economic development with cultural storytelling, from Civil War history projects to new festivals and heritage tourism efforts.
Todd is also a writer, working under pen names such as T.C. Andrews and Axel Calloway, producing sharp social commentary, historical explorations, and serialized community critiques. His creative pursuits span from screenplays and radio plays to editorial projects aimed at sparking honest conversations about rural America’s challenges and future.
A pilot, history enthusiast, and lifelong small-business owner, Todd remains committed to building stronger communities while pursuing creative endeavors that inform, challenge, and inspire.
Mississippi County- Charleston, MO
My name is Lester Gillespie. I am a 1990 graduate from Southeast Missouri University with a B.A. in General Studies with an emphasis in Criminal Justice. I was employed by Susanna Wesley Family Learning Center as a program director for 22 years and gained a great deal of experience in the area of community outreach.
The first Leadership Cohort program that Missouri Foundation for Health held in the State of Missouri, I was chosen to participate. The program was uplifting and inspiring and I felt there was more that could be done in the Bootheel.
I am currently the CEO of Fresh Start Self Improvement Center, Inc. which was founded in 2019. Fresh Start continues to stay engaged with residents of Mississippi County by providing an array of programs such as After-school tutoring, Gun Violence intervention, and a Fathers on the Move program. We also partner with our local school, Charleston R1 School District to provide a Too Good For Drugs program, Charleston C2000 Youth Coalition, and Too Good for Violence program.
Mental Health First-Aid training has taught me the importance of staying engaged with youth that is suffering from depression, anxiety, and having suicidal thoughts. I have worked in providing a therapeutic environment for the youth in which I work. It is very important to me to nurture and lead by example as we work towards a healthy lifestyle for our youth.
Mississippi County- Charleston, MO
My name is Qunitta Goodin, as known as Qu’ and I’m the Owner of 3 small businesses and a board member of the Charleston Chambers of Commerce and Tourism while living in Charleston, MO. I’m currently employed with the Government for 8 years and have a MBA in Human Resource Management. I possess a business professional with over 20+ years of enhancing strategic growth for organizations and cultivating relationships. I have proven experience collaborating with senior management to conduct Business and Human Resources strategic planning to support and further corporate goals. I also have a broad knowledge of human resources in a variety of sectors including Higher Education and Health Care Environments. I’m experienced in organizing personnel into strategic teams to: develop policy changes, improve productivity and quality standards, and establish staff training programs.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and traveling while learning new things about life. I also love building relationships with the communities and civil leaders, seeking an understanding on the need/concern of wanting to ensure positive, effective, and efficient growth within the hometown.
I’m currently in the process of developing my non profit organization geared towards minorities of ALL ages affected by the criminal justice system seeking a positive change to change their life with the help of being educated, trained, and feeling accepted in today’s society. Also, working on planning my next step with my small businesses, which is a store front within my hometown.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Over the past 20 years, Scarlett Loomas has worked in a variety of fields that have focused on building up individuals, businesses, and communities as a whole. Following careers in politics, secondary education, and sales, she found her calling in the fight against poverty through community action work at Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation. At DAEOC, Scarlett has filled multiple roles and currently serves as the Agency's Development Administrator. In this position, she focuses on developing strategic partnerships, advancing special projects, and supporting a variety of community impact initiatives across multiple organizations.
Scarlett holds a B.A. in Sociology/English from Wellesley College and a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from William Woods University. She was a 2016-2017 Fellow through the Delta Leadership Institute. Outside of work, she is active in her community as a Troop Leader with Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland; House of Refuge Board Member; Bootheel Babies and Families Board Member; and a member of P.E.O.
As the sixth generation of her family to reside in the Bootheel, Scarlett makes her home in Sikeston with her husband and two children.
Cape Girardeau County - Cape Girardeau, MO
Christy Mershon is a nonprofit leader, educator, and consultant with over 25 years of experience advancing community engagement, workforce development, and organizational capacity across Southeast Missouri. At Southeast Missouri State University, she has led initiatives in continuing education and economic development, connecting regional needs with educational and workforce solutions.
Christy has served as board chair or president for numerous organizations, including the Historical Association of Greater Cape Girardeau, Discovery Playhouse, and the Network Against Sexual Violence. Her work centers on helping nonprofits grow stronger through collaboration, strategic planning, and sustainable funding.
A connector and innovator by nature, Christy is passionate about empowering leaders and fostering partnerships that make communities more vibrant and resilient. Through the Neighborhood Leadership Fellows program, she hopes to expand her ability to strengthen the region’s nonprofit infrastructure, helping local organizations access resources, manage larger-scale projects, and build systems that improve quality of life for all residents.
Butler County - Poplar Bluff, MO
Jessie Polk is a dedicated Health Careers Coordinator at the Southeastern Missouri Area Health Education Center (SEMO AHEC), with over 20 years of experience in health information management and career placement. She leads engaging classes for high school and undergraduate students pursuing careers in healthcare, helping them build confidence and clarity in their professional paths.
Jessie holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Management. She is certified in Legal and Ethics, Grant Writing, and CPR, and is a proud member of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Her expertise and passion for education inspire students to stay focused and motivated as they prepare for future roles in the medical field.
Outside the classroom, Jessie is committed to community service. She mentors and tutors youth through Wheatley Succeeding in School and volunteers with Beautiful Spirited Women, supporting empowerment and personal growth. She finds joy in reading, traveling, and spending intentional, quality time with her family.
Jessie’s blend of professional experience, educational leadership, and heartfelt service makes her a powerful advocate for students and a respected voice in healthcare education.
Mississippi County- Charleston, MO
Although my parents and grandparents are from Mississippi County, I consider myself a Charleston transplant, as I was raised in Wentzville, Missouri, however, I have called Charleston home since 2019.
It’s a pleasure to be part of the Neighborhood leadership fellows as I have gravitated towards civic involvement since my role as Program Director at the Sikeston Regional Chamber. This was my first position after graduating from Murray State University in 2013, with a Bachelor of Science in Organization Communication and Public Relations. I thoroughly enjoyed and found success in fundraising efforts, member relations.
Professional ventures proceeding the Sikeston Chamber include work in industries such as hospitality, law, manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, and real estate. After years being out of higher education, I returned to pursue a Master of Business Administration, specializing in Human Resources at Bethel University. I graduated in 2022 and took a remote position as a Specialist for a human resources consulting firm. This is where I found my passion for helping businesses identify areas of weakness and potential threats that may be the cause for lack of success or internal conflict, followed by establishing a solution. Educating business owners on best practices, areas of exposure, and how to increase opportunities is gratifying. This overflows into my observation of my community progress. It is possible for existing policy (process and procedure) to become obsolete or new policy become necessary to be more effective in making positive change in a community. Although it is uncomfortable, change must be tolerated to adapt as our society continues to shift. Therefore, I believe well written policy gives power to make change not only on a community level, but it is what drives the world.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Yolanda Denese Redd is a visionary leader and lifelong public servant whose distinguished career spans decades of impactful work in public service, community development, and civic engagement across the State of Missouri. Deeply rooted in Sikeston’s Sunset Neighborhood, Yolanda brings a unique blend of strategic insight, compassionate leadership, and spiritual grounding to every endeavor she undertakes.
Her dedication to community service is exemplified through her active involvement in civic organizations, most notably as a committed member of the Queen Annie Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star—a historic fraternal body dedicated to charitable work, moral development, and sisterhood. Within this organization and others, Yolanda has served with grace, integrity, and tireless energy to promote the principles of benevolence and social uplift.
As the Founder and Executive Leader of Sunset Community Housing Partnership, a certified CHDO (Community Housing Development Organization), Yolanda has orchestrated transformative change in affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization. She has overseen legal formation, branding, stakeholder engagement, and compliance—all while championing dignity, equity, and resident voice.
In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Yolanda is a pillar of faith-based education and onboarding at Missionary Baptist Church. She has authored curriculum, mentored new members, and cultivated spiritual growth through thoughtful, scripture-based programming.
With years of experience across public and civic sectors, Yolanda stands as a trusted voice and bold advocate for holistic community empowerment. Her multifaceted skill set—from legal document drafting and visual storytelling to board development and public speaking—reflects her unwavering commitment to building systems that honor both tradition and innovation.
Cape Girardeau County - Cape Girardeau, MO
Ashley Showalter is a passionate community leader, healthcare coordinator, and autism advocate based in Southeast Missouri. As the Clinical Rotation & Scholar Coordinator for the SEMO Area Health Education Center (AHEC), she manages medical student rotations, builds strong relationships with hospitals and preceptors, and helps shape the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Beyond her professional role, Ashley serves as Director of Autism Awareness of Southeast Missouri (AASM), where she leads community initiatives and organizes events such as the Puzzle Run to promote autism awareness and inclusion. She is also the Secretary and Color Run Chair for the Autism Society of Southern Illinois (ASI), where she coordinates the annual Autism Color Fun Run and volunteer engagement efforts.
Known for her hands-on leadership, creativity, and compassion, Ashley is dedicated to empowering others through advocacy, education, and connection. She strives to build more inclusive communities for individuals and families affected by autism—and is continually inspired by her son, Trenton, whose journey fuels her mission for awareness and acceptance.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Nakeshia Williams is a dedicated and compassionate professional from Haywood City, Missouri, with over 15 years of experience in community service, family advocacy, and program coordination. She currently serves as a Program Coordinator for Network for Strong Communities (NSC) in the Southeast Missouri Region, where she coordinates events and activities, oversees logistics, manages administrative tasks, and promotes programs to the community.
Before joining NSC she worked for Lincoln University as a Program Educator Assistant, where she oversaw the Bridge the Gap after-school and summer programs, ensuring a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for students and staff. Nakeshia also worked for DAEOC Head Start as a Child Family Advocate for 13 years, where she partnered with families to strengthen self-reliance and connect them with vital community resources. Her career also includes roles as a Direct Support Staff member at Family Matters Home Services and Preferred Family Healthcare, where she provided compassionate care and support to individuals with developmental and mental disabilities.
A graduate of Lincoln University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Nakeshia combines her education with a passion for service, leadership, and empowerment. Her skills in crisis management, program development, and mentoring allow her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Driven by a commitment to community growth and family well-being, Nakeshia continues to inspire and advocate for positive change through her work and leadership.
Mississippi County - Charleston, MO
Born and raised in Charleston, Missouri, I take great pride in serving the community that has given me so much. A graduate of Charleston High School, I went on to earn an associate degree from Three Rivers Community College, a bachelor’s degree from Hannibal-LaGrange University, a master’s and specialist degree from William Woods University, and have completed my doctoral coursework through William Woods as well.
Now in my 13th year in education, I am a driven, loyal, and compassionate leader who believes that growth, happiness, and optimism are essential to lasting success. My greatest motivation comes from my wife and four children, whose love and support fuel my commitment to excellence. I am most proud of the family we have built and the environment we’ve created for our children to thrive.
My short-term goal is to lead our district toward becoming a high-performing, student-centered system that promotes both academic and personal growth. Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to contribute to revitalizing Charleston by ensuring that our schools serve as the foundation for community pride and progress. Outside of education, I enjoy working out, golfing, coaching basketball, and spending time with my family.
Scott County - Sikeston, MO
Nakeshia Williams is a dedicated and compassionate professional from Haywood City, Missouri, with over 15 years of experience in community service, family advocacy, and program coordination. She currently serves as a Program Coordinator for Network for Strong Communities (NSC) in the Southeast Missouri Region, where she coordinates events and activities, oversees logistics, manages administrative tasks, and promotes programs to the community.
Before joining NSC she worked for Lincoln University as a Program Educator Assistant, where she oversaw the Bridge the Gap after-school and summer programs, ensuring a safe, engaging, and supportive environment for students and staff. Nakeshia also worked for DAEOC Head Start as a Child Family Advocate for 13 years, where she partnered with families to strengthen self-reliance and connect them with vital community resources. Her career also includes roles as a Direct Support Staff member at Family Matters Home Services and Preferred Family Healthcare, where she provided compassionate care and support to individuals with developmental and mental disabilities.
A graduate of Lincoln University with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Nakeshia combines her education with a passion for service, leadership, and empowerment. Her skills in crisis management, program development, and mentoring allow her to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Driven by a commitment to community growth and family well-being, Nakeshia continues to inspire and advocate for positive change through her work and leadership.