Rae Phillips, Director of HARK, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating the history of the Ark-La-Tex through dynamic and inclusive programming. An award-winning writer and media producer, Rae blends storytelling and education to preserve community voices and histories through film, radio, and oral history projects.

Jenifer Hill, Executive Director of the Strand Theatre, brings three decades of experience in nonprofit and arts management to one of Shreveport’s most beloved cultural landmarks. With a deep passion for the performing arts and a fearless dedication to historic preservation, Jenifer leads with heart, humor, and a lifelong love for the theatre she once mischievously explored as a child.

Matt Henry, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Central Louisiana, has led arts advocacy and cultural development across an eight-parish region since 2003. A passionate leader and vocal performance graduate of The Ohio State University, Matt oversees major venues like the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center and champions the arts statewide through leadership roles in key cultural organizations.

Airs Mon., Nov. 24, 6:30 p.m. Community Connections has a conversation with Anabelinda “Ana” Ford, founder of Parents United Against Youth Violence. Parents United Against Youth Violence is a grassroots movement in El Dorado, Arkansas, dedicated to transforming young lives and preventing youth violence through testimony, outreach, and faith. Inspired by her own family’s struggles, Ana leads marches, support groups, and scholarship efforts to bring hope, healing, and opportunity to her community.

Frances Williams, Executive Director of Bernstein Development, Inc., became involved with the nonprofit sector after volunteering with her church’s summer program. BDI began as a simple after-school program and has grown into a vital neighborhood resource—offering meals, health, and nutrition classes, a community garden, and park support in the heart of the Hollywood/Caddo Heights area.

: Jessica Gorman is the Executive Director of the Dorcheat Historical Association and Museum in Minden, Louisiana, where she works to preserve and celebrate the rich history of Webster Parish. As a local historian, columnist, and passionate genealogist, she is dedicated to historical education and community heritage through her leadership, writing, and advocacy for cemetery preservation.

Emily Petzold proudly serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Shreveport Little Theatre, where she plays a key role in supporting and promoting one of the region’s most beloved cultural institutions. A passionate advocate for the arts, she brings her leadership, creativity, and community spirit to the theatre while also performing as the lead singer of the band Identity Crisis.

This week Community Connections talks with Diane Libro from Catholic Charities of North Louisiana. Ms. Libro joined Catholic Charities of North Louisiana in April 2024, bringing a deep commitment to faith and advocacy for marginalized communities. With a background in journalism and over a decade of nonprofit experience at Volunteers of America North Louisiana, she blends storytelling, operational insight, and mission-driven service to uplift those in need.

This week Community Connections talks with Dr. Anneka Simms Alexander, Executive Outreach Director of Miles for Smiles. Dr. Alexander is a passionate advocate for health equity, education, and community outreach. With a strong background in public policy and a doctorate in transformational leadership, she is dedicated to expanding access to school-based dental care for children across North Louisiana—ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Toccara Huckaby is a dynamic educator, entrepreneur, and advocate for girls’ empowerment through education. As founder of Stonewall Learning Center Plus and the nonprofit G.E.M.S., she is now launching Merit Girls Academy—an innovative, girl-centered middle school designed to foster leadership, S.T.E.M. excellence, and academic confidence in young women.