Meet the Team

At Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area, our team is made up of passionate, mission-driven individuals dedicated to building a better future for families in our community. From leadership to volunteers, every person plays a vital role in bringing our mission to life.

Board of Directors

Our board of directors provides critical leadership and guidance to help shape the direction of our organization. Through governance, strategy and stewardship, they ensure we stay mission-focused and accountable to the community we serve.

Aileen Thomas*
Treasurer

Jennifer Studebaker*
President

Officers

Maura Jelliffe*
Secretary

Jay Jacobus*
Vice President

Board Members

Clifton Goodloe

Slade Exley

David Coon

Randy Bowles

Willie Alexander

Donna Barnes

John Clark

Monica Day

Stephen Griner*

David Jackson

Katie McRae

Sandra Patterson

Larry Ratzlaff

Sandra Robinson

Mary Purvis

Sam Morris

Donna Jacobs

Regina Fowler

Collier Graham

Polly Hammett

*Executive Committee

Allen Scott*

Kara Washington*

Advisory Board

Bill Cook, Jr.

Mecca Butler

Cathy Boone

Donna Barksdale

Ali Bhatti

James Bryant

Chris Fontan

Monte Luehlfing

Vicki McGuinness

Kelle Menogan

Nina Redding*

Chris McInnis

David Maron

Bob Canizaro*

Jason Duren

Bill Geary

*Life Board Member

Our executive leadership guides our organization with vision, integrity and a deep commitment to service.

Leadership

Merrill McKewen
President & CEO

With more than 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Merrill McKewen oversees strategic operations, community partnerships and fundraising efforts for Habitat for Humanity Mississippi Capital Area. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded its reach, built hundreds of homes and strengthened its impact in the capital area.