I have some big and exciting news to share with you. After more than 20 years, I’m leaving Black Belt Community Foundation for a new role as President and CEO of the Heron Foundation.

Christopher Spencer — our Chief Community Engagement Officer — has been unanimously approved by our board to become BBCF’s next President and CEO, effective upon my departure on September 30, 2025.

Chris is the perfect choice to build on what we’ve created together at BBCF. He began working with BBCF more than 20 years ago as a Community Associate and has spent his adult life serving his country and his community. He was awarded the prestigious Gen. Douglas McArthur Leadership Award as an Army officer during Operation Desert Storm and is Pastor of the St. Matthew-Weston Missionary Baptist Church in Boligee.

Before joining BBCF, he worked in education at the Sumter County Board of Education and as Director for Resource Development for Community Engagement at the University of Alabama. He previously served as Vice Chairman of the Sumter County Commission and was recently appointed as a Trustee for Alabama State University.

He’s a lifelong servant leader who knows and loves his community and I can’t think of anyone on the planet who is more prepared and ready for this role.

You’ll be hearing much more from Chris in the coming weeks and months.

But I wanted to pause to reflect on what we’ve all accomplished together over the past 21 years.

BBCF is stronger than ever, and I feel nothing but joy knowing I’m stepping away at a time when the organization is well positioned for its next chapter.

We could not have achieved everything we’ve accomplished as a foundation without you.

Since day one, we’ve been focused on creating a true community foundation — one that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of the people we serve. Because of you, we’ve been able to achieve this goal. Every day, you’ve challenged us, inspired us, and pushed us to act in the best interests of the Black Belt.

The result is a foundation unlike any other. Together, we’ve deployed nearly $100 million into our community — and we’ve done so with the guidance of the people who live here.

I want to thank each of you individually — and all of you collectively — for your commitment, your love of our community, your trust in me and in the foundation, and for your willingness to lead alongside me.

I’ve cherished the opportunity to be led by you — and I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done to make this work happen.

I see this as an opportunity to celebrate — not only what we’ve accomplished together over the past 20-plus years, but also for what’s to come.

I’m so excited to see how you and Chris continue this vital work. I know you’ll dream even bigger and work more fervently than before.

I hope you’ll join me in congratulating Chris on this exciting new opportunity and in working with me to ensure a smooth transition.

With gratitude and love,

Felecia