Staff
Meet Our Staff
Lanisha Bell
Chief Executive Officer
Lanisha Bell brings more than 20 years of executive leadership and nationally recognized expertise in victim services to MCADV. Her career spans domestic violence advocacy, tribal justice, federal grants management, and the development of programs that strengthen support for survivors. She has directed victim services programs, guided multidisciplinary teams, and led large-scale training and technical assistance initiatives.
Lanisha’s leadership is grounded in survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive practice. She has advised national and international initiatives and built partnerships across government, tribal nations, and community organizations. As CEO, she brings that breadth of experience to MCADV’s work with domestic violence programs across Mississippi, strengthening the coalition’s capacity to advocate for survivors and support the people who serve them.
Alicia Washington
Chief Financial Officer
Alicia is the financial backbone of MCADV, expertly navigating budgets, managing grants, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements to secure the coalition’s financial stability. Her keen financial acumen not only sustains MCADV’s operations but also fuels its growth, allowing the organization to expand its impact and continue its vital work in the community.
Tara Steverson
Communications and Membership Specialist
Tara is a dedicated communicator, responsible for crafting and disseminating vital information to diverse audiences, ensuring that our messaging is consistent and impactful. She develops effective communication strategies that engage the community and amplify MCADV’s mission. By cultivating and strengthening relationships with our members, Tara fosters connections that inspire support for our cause, transforming engagement into action and rallying the community around the important work of MCADV.
Vera Johnson
Program Specialist-Systems Change
Vera is a dynamic advocate who collaborates with domestic violence programs to implement services that are not only responsive but also deeply attuned to the diverse needs of survivors, particularly those from underserved populations. With her strategic insight, she enhances coordinated community responses, pushing the boundaries of assistance from direct advocacy to impactful system advocacy. Vera’s work is dedicated to ensuring that every survivor receives the comprehensive support they deserve, driving meaningful change within the community.
Jennifer Wilson
Operations Specialist
Jennifer is the heartbeat of the MCADV office, expertly streamlining daily operations to enhance organizational efficiency. With her meticulous attention to detail, she manages logistics and administrative tasks, ensuring that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Her dedication and organizational prowess keep the team focused and effective, allowing MCADV to thrive in its mission to make a difference.
