CFNEA Announces Staff Promotions
September 5, 2023
The Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama (CFNEA) is pleased to announce the promotion of five staff members. Jennifer S. Maddox, President & CEO, shares, "These staff members are vital to the work of the Community Foundation. They have worked tirelessly on numerous projects and excelled in their education and abilities to serve our donors, grantees, and partners throughout the region we serve.” Please join me in congratulating these dedicated team members.
J. Mitchell Rogers, MBA, CAP®, Vice President of Community Partnerships – Mitch joined CFNEA in July 2016 as Director of Scholarships and Initiatives. Since then, his role has grown to encompass the areas of Partnerships and Operations. Mitch began volunteering with CFNEA in 2005 by co-chairing the Mary Katherine "Katy" Williamson Scholarship Fund Annual Hook & Cook fundraiser. Before joining the Community Foundation, Mitch worked in medical administration and was the Corporate Administrator for a commercial real estate development company. Mitch shares, "Working at the Community Foundation feeds my unceasing desire to use my knowledge and talent to improve my community and positively impact the region we serve."
Fred Smith, MPA, CAP®, Vice President of Community Partnerships – Fred joined CFNEA in July 2016 as the Director of Grants. Fred is an expert in all things grants. Before joining the CFNEA, he served as a grant reviewer, grant applicant, grant recipient, and grants manager. Fred led the regional partnership to honor the 100th anniversary of Susie Parker Stringfellow with the creation of 17 Open Spaces Sacred Places™ throughout our nine-county region and has elevated the growth of the Out of the Shadows Summit, which focuses on mental health. Fred shares, "I enjoy helping people fulfill their charitable dreams while positively impacting the region we serve."
Lethea Cortner, Scholarships & Grants Manager - Lethea joined the CFNEA staff on January 25, 2021, in a newly created position as the Scholarships & Grants Coordinator. Before joining the Community Foundation, Lethea was an American Express Platinum Travel Representative. She is the "go-to person" for grant and scholarship applications and questions. Lethea shares, "I enjoy being part of a community and seeing the difference we make in it."
Norma Mancilla, Accounting & Payroll Manager - Norma joined the staff of the CFNEA in 2018. She has an Associate in Applied Science in Accounting from Gadsden State Community College. Before joining the Community Foundation, Norma worked as a store manager for a large chain. She is attending Jacksonville State University for her Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Norma shares, "Working for the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama allows me to use my accounting skills. I love being part of a team that gives back to the community to create positive change."
Cassandra Norton, Events & Technology Manager – Cassandra joined the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama on October 1, 2019, in a new position as a Meeting & Technology Specialist. Before joining CFNEA, Cassandra worked for the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, focusing on individuals with disabilities and case management. She is an advocate for not-for-profit organizations and the work they do. Her ability to manage various meeting platforms and her expertise in technology has taken the work of CFNEA to new heights. She keeps the Community Foundation up-to-date with technology changes. Cassandra shares, "I strive to create meaningful experiences and provide innovative technologies to expand our philanthropic reach."