"Guiding Her Haven with Vision Integrity, and Heart"
Our board is composed of passionate professionals, mothers, mentors, and advocates, who each bring a unique voice to work we do.

President
Brandy Matthews
Brandy Matthews is a dynamic business professional with over a decade of experience in human resources, marketing, and program management. She holds an MBA in Marketing and a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from Campbellsville University. Currently the Business Office Manager at Bivins Realty Group, Brandy leads administrative operations and digital marketing initiatives. She is also the founder of EmiLex Bling Parties, a brand that empowers women and girls through waist beads and business coaching. An active member of the Junior League of Columbus and a board member for the Association for Sickle Cell, Lower Chattahoochee Region, Brandy is passionate about leadership, community impact, and supporting women and children.

Treasurer - Interim
Kimi Bivins
Kimi Bivins is an Ozark, AL native and is a proud 26-year Army Veteran. During her military service, she specialized in Human Resources, a skill that has proven beneficial in her civilian career. As an entrepreneur, she has authored several Books. In 2010, while still on active duty, she earned a Multidisciplinary BS degree from Grantham University. Later, in 2019, she obtained an Interdisciplinary BS degree with Concentrations in Entrepreneurial Studies, Psychology, and Military Studies from Troy University. Most recently, Ms. Bivins completed her master’s degree in public administration in July 2023. The real estate world captivated her after she purchased a home in 2017. Following her licensure, she gained experience at two real estate firms before establishing her own, The Bivins Realty Group, in May 2022, where she currently manages four agents. Ms.Bivins provides exceptional customer service with integrity, believing that building lasting relationships with families and communities is essential.

Secretary
Brittany Sanders
Brittany Sanders is a proud United States Army Veteran who honorably served for 10 years. A devoted wife and mother of four, Brittany brings a deep sense of commitment and resilience to every role she undertakes. With over a decade of experience in customer service, administrative operations, and leadership, she has consistently championed community advancement and empowerment. Britanny continues to be a voice for positive change in the community and pillar of support to those around her.

General Board Member
Jessica Bankston
Jessica Bankston is a proud 20-year Army Veteran with a heart for service. She has years of logistical and managerial expertise. Jessica holds an MS in criminal Justice from Troy University. Beyond her professional background, she is deeply committed to her community. She has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for over four years, where she advocates on behalf of children and youth in the foster care system. Making a positive impact through service, she's also a member of the junior League of Columbus. Jessica's passion and dedication for creating meaningful change can be seen in everything she does.

General Board Member
Deshawnda Partlow
Deshawnda Partlow works as the Director of Admissions at Fortis College. With over 11 years in Enrollment Management Deshawnda helps to empower, inspire and encourage students to become whole, well-rounded, life-impacting individuals. She helps to foster critical thinking and cultural appreciation in and around her community by being involved in various professional, social, and philanthropic organizations. She is a Lifetime Member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the National Council of Negro Women, and the Order of the Eastern Star as well as a member of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Locally she serves as the Director of the Tri-State Expo Juneteenth Affairs Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant, a Pageant coach for the Miss Bronze Pageant Association in Ozark, and Founder/Director of the Emerald City Dazzlers Dance Team in Ozark. She serves as a member of the One Eagle Foundation Board for the Ozark City School System, an Ambassador for the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce. She has been recognized as a Distinguished Alumnae at her Alma Mater, Alabama State University as a 50 under 50 Honoree. In 2023 she was one of Dothan's 20 under 40 Young Area Professionals and a 2025 member of the Leadership Dothan Class 43. Deshawnda holds both a Bachelor and Master's Degree from Alabama State University.
In her free time, she likes to read, go to the movies, and quiet moments.
