Dr. Suzanne Martin is the Executive Director. Prior to taking on this role, she served as the Program Director, developing the curriculum and providing the leadership training for our women.  In 2000 Suzanne brought three Samford women to the inaugural Summer Institute and has not missed one since. After 15 years of student affairs work at Samford, Suzanne transitioned into an adjunct faculty position that allowed her to serve the Leading Edge more directly. She is a member of the local chapter of Bread for the World and Alabama Citizens for Constitution Reform (ACCR) and the Homewood Environmental Commission. At Baptist Church of the Covenant, Suzanne serves as the chair of the Justice Issues Forum, a group that educates and equips the membership on issues that affect the “least of these” and require advocacy. Suzanne is wife to Mike, mother to sons Micah and Sumner. Suzanne loves to cook (and eat), attempts to garden, reads when possible, and loves yoga at 6 a.m.!
   
Jestina Renea Howard is our current AmeriCorps Member and serving as LEI Program Coordinator. Jestina is a native of Birmingham and has over 20 years experience working in the fashion and beauty industry as well as the non-profit world here in the Magic City. She is a 1986 graduate of Ensley Magnet High School. In 1988, she earned an Associate's degree in Fashion Merchandising from Southern Institute. In May Jestina, a Dean's Scholar at Miles College will graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Communications. Jestina serves on the YP Birmingham Board, the Board of One Roof and volunteers with the American Lung Association.