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We want to make the systems that impact our daily lives work better by reducing wasted effort and helping organizations and institutions work together more smoothly.

To do this, the MFM governance model brings community residents, local governments, school districts, and nonprofit and business leaders into one decision-making space. Everyone has a voice, and everyone works from shared information, including new data and progress reports. 

This structure is designed to break down silos and connect efforts across sectors. It helps all partners agree on what needs to change, understand the barriers that keep families in poverty, and stay accountable for taking action that leads to better outcomes for kids and families.

Roles & Responsibilities 

GOVERNANCE BOARD MEMBERS

Alan Gumbel

Governance Board Chair
Black Chamber of Memphis

Ari Thompson

Governance Board Vice Chair
Youth/Young Adult Resident

Tate Wilson

Philanthropy
Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation

Jamilica Burke
(non-voting)

Backbone
Seeding Success

Sheneka Balogun
(non-voting)

Fund Manager
Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis

Marlon Foster

Intermediary Representative
Knowledge Quest

Casey Cooper

Private Sector Business

Yolanda Cooper-Sutton

Memphis City Council

Nakyla Curry

Young Adult Resident

Waddell Fisher

Adult Resident

Unveyunce Fitch

Young Adult Resident

Arriell Gipson Martin

Shelby County Administration

Brian Harris

City of Memphis Administration

Tena Holmes

Adult Resident

Michelle McKissack

Memphis-Shelby County Schools Board

Mick Wright

Shelby County Commission

TBD

Memphis-Shelby County Schools Administration