Tom Bullock, PhD
Chair
LEADERS, Inc., CEO
Dr. Bullock earned his bachelor’s degree in physics from Xavier University of Louisiana and a doctorate in higher education management from the University of Pennsylvania. With over 30 years of experience in higher education, he has held various roles at several institutions, including dean, department chair, and professor. He founded the Institute for College Preparation at Georgetown University and served as assistant to the president for educational initiatives. His current work focuses on community development and mentorship.
Dr. Bullock is the founder and president of LEADERS, Inc., a nonprofit organization that supports under-resourced college students, and he is a senior consultant with Genesis Ed Solutions. Additionally, Dr. Bullock serves on several other nonprofit boards, including the Unforgettable Dream Fund, Dance Savannah Elite, and the Heritage Signature Chorale.
“I am incredibly proud of the profound impact Healthy Savannah continues to have on our community. Our mission is clear: to foster a culture of health equity where the healthy choice is the easy choice.”
Blake Caldwell, MD
Retired
Blake Caldwell is a physician and scientist who retired in 2010 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She is a pediatrician, but her early career included eight years in the Navy doing bacterial research, with a two-year tour teaching tropical public health and deployment medicine to Navy physicians in Panama. She joined the CDC in 1989, and her long career there included epidemiological research in HIV, health services research in health care quality and medical errors, and finally, health policy for infectious diseases.
She developed and initially ran Skidaway Farms, a large community garden on Skidaway Island. She chairs the Agriculture and Archaeology Committees for Sustainable Skidaway. She is currently serving on the Board of Directors for the Landings Association. She has been Co-chair of the Savannah/Chatham Food Policy Council since 2013 and helped found the Healthy Savannah Grant Planning Working Group. In 2011-2012, she chaired a task force for the Metropolitan Planning Commission to revise the city and county animal control ordinances to encourage urban agriculture.
Blake is married to Joel Rosenstock, an Infectious Disease physician practicing in Atlanta, and they have two sons and three grandsons.
“Healthy Savannah is important because it enthusiastically promotes one of the unique aspects of our ‘not for profit’ community in Savannah – its collaborative character. Having worked in many communities I am continually surprised at the eagerness to cooperate and the generous attitude our partners have with one another.”
“Healthy Savannah makes an impact on the community through its breadth and depth of collaborations. As a coalition of over 200 organizations, it works throughout the community on a broad range of issues affecting health. Focusing on policy, the environment, and systems change, it can bring together diverse programs and initiatives enhancing each partner’s effort.”
Jennifer Davenport
Vice President of Community Affairs and In House Counsel
Jennifer was born and raised in eastern North Carolina, attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and law school at Mercer University in Macon.
After graduation in 1999, she moved to Savannah where she has practiced law since. She owned her own firm, was a public defender and was the Assistant County Attorney for Chatham County. In 2021, she began her present position at the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce as the Vice President of Community Affairs and In House Counsel. She is the Executive Director of Leadership Savannah.
Jennifer is a municipal Judge for the Town of Thunderbolt and judge pro temp in State Court of Chatham County.
She presently serves as the Chair of the Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Secretary for Chatham Savannah Authority on Homelessness, and sits on the boards of the Historic Savannah Foundation, United Way of the Coastal Empire, the Mediation Center, Healthy Savannah and East Savannah United.
“At Healthy Savannah, we’re reminded every day that caring for our community starts with caring for ourselves. When we invest in our own health and well-being, we strengthen our ability to serve others- that’s how real, lasting change takes root.”
Nick Deffley, MS
Vice-Chair
Nick Deffley is the Director of Environmental Services & Sustainability at the City of Savannah, promoting a healthy, equitable, and economically vibrant community for our current citizens and future generations. Nick has worked with a variety of organizations locally including Armstrong University, Emergent Structures, Sustainativity, and Step Up Savannah on strategic planning, workforce development, and sustainability efforts. Prior to Savannah, Nick worked at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities where he developed sustainable building policies, managed the University’s first sustainable building program, and improved collaboration with women and minority-owned businesses on sustainable building projects. Nick has a multi-disciplinary Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies, Political Science & Communications and a Masters in Environmental Policy & Organizational Effectiveness.
“Healthy Savannah’s collaborative and inclusive approach spurs innovative policy, environment, and systems change that has far-reaching impacts on the health of Savannah and its residents.”
“The impact of Healthy Savannah is a direct result of its breadth and depth of relationships, connections, and partnerships that it has developed among so many organizations and people in Savannah and beyond.”
Cheri Dean
Secretary
Cheri Dean believes when basic human needs are met, individuals experience a greater sense of purpose and well-being. Fostering resiliency, through stability, a sense of belonging, and economic mobility, is the focus of her work at the United Way of the Coastal Empire. As a native of Savannah, Cheri is passionate about collaborating with the community and strategic partners to improve lives, especially in Coastal Georgia.
Dean earned a BA in Economics from Spelman College, MBA from Duke University, Fuqua School of Business, and MPH from Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health. She began her career in Corporate America selling and marketing consumer products, providing strategic oversight for advertising executions, leading annual business planning cycles, among other critical functions. After a successful Corporate career, Cheri joined the ranks of entrepreneurs and advocates committed to social impact within vulnerable populations. In her hometown of Savannah, GA, she found a critical need to help young adults navigate their way out of poverty through educational achievement, meaningful employment, and other wraparound services.
Cheri serves as a Board Member of Savannah Economic Development Authority, Senior Citizens, Inc., Keep Savannah Beautiful, and other community organizations.
“Healthy Savannah embodies health through their optimistic and resilient approach to making life better and healthier for all of us. It’s a privilege to serve and advance Healthy Savannah’s priorities in collaboration with our community.”
“Healthy Savannah is an organization with demonstrated innovation and impact in our community. The Healthy Savannah Team is committed to equitable solutions for every aspect of life including food, exercise, safe, neighborhoods, and policies that shape our experience as Savannah residents.”
Yolanda Roberson
Treasurer
Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship—Executive Pastor
Yolanda Patrice Roberson is the Co-Founder of Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship, Inc., a non-denominational, multicultural, holistic, and community-focused ministry located on the Southside of Savannah, Georgia. She currently serves as the Executive Pastor, where she provides leadership to ministry staff and oversees the daily operations of the church.
Pastor Yolanda is deeply passionate about the spiritual development, covering, and empowerment of women in faith. She founded the Ladies of Life Women’s Ministry and the We Nourisher Movement, both created to uplift, encourage, and support women of all ages in living a holistic and purpose-driven life. She is also committed to serving the community in which she was raised and is especially passionate about mentoring young adult women.
Pastor Yolanda is a graduate of Savannah State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Social Work. Prior to devoting herself full-time to ministry, she served for over ten years as a Case Manager at the Coastal Center for Developmental Services.
Her commitment to community leadership extends beyond the church. She previously served on the Board of RYDC and currently serves on the Boards of Healthy Savannah, Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity, and as the Chair of the Faith and Health Coalition. Pastor Yolanda is also a proud graduate of Leadership Savannah’s Class of 2025.
She is the devoted wife of Charles Roberson, Sr., Founder and Senior Pastor of Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship, Inc. She takes great pride in her role as a wife, mother, and supporter of her family and adult children.
As a dedicated change-agent, Pastor Yolanda embraces her faith wholeheartedly and has accepted the mandate to encourage and empower others to walk boldly into their God-given calling, regardless of their background or life journey.
“Healthy options and healthy choices should be made easy for everyone.”
Rhonda Barlow, MPH, RDN, LD, CLC
Rhonda Barlow is a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Lactation Counselor. She has worked in various capacities as a public health nutritionist for over 30 years, two of those years as a Peace Corps Volunteer. She currently works as a School Nutrition Coordinator with Chatham Public Schools. Rhonda has volunteered with Healthy Savannah since 2007.
“Healthy Savannah is important because it’s the single organizing cooperate force in the community moving the people of Savannah towards a healthier life and a better quality of life.”
“Healthy Savannah is making an impact in the community by consistently being a space for people to engage around, and in, healthy experiences.”
Tiffoni Buckle-McCartney
Georgia Ports Authority, Corporate Sustainability Manager
Tiffoni Buckle McCartney is an experienced Environmental Health and Safety professional, sustainability leader, and certified Maritime Port Executive (MPE). She works for Georgia Ports Authority as the Corporate Sustainability Manager collaborating with businesses and stakeholders to maximize environmental and health programs. Tiffoni previously worked as the sustainability manager for Georgia Southern University campuses in Statesboro, Hinesville, and Savannah. Before working in Georgia, she was a consultant for the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Tiffoni has worked with Sandals Resorts International as their Environmental Health and Safety Regional Manager, coordinating environmental and risk management programs. She has experience working in both the private sector and public sector in the Caribbean, Latin America, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom on environmental health and safety. Trained as a Natural Resource Manager and Environmental Engineer; she holds a BSc. in Environmental and Natural Resource Management, an MSc. in Environmental Engineering, and a Master of Business Administration.
“Healthy Savannah connects residents with healthier options and brings partners together to spark real change. From raising awareness to shaping policy, Healthy Savannah makes wellness easier and more accessible for everyone. By working at the grassroots level and engaging the whole community to get involved, take action, and live healthier, happier lives.”
Hilton L. Fordham, Jr.
Chief Operations Officer/Corporate Compliance Officer for J C Lewis Primary Health Care Center
Hilton L. Fordham, Jr. serves as the Chief Operations Officer/Corporate Compliance Officer for J C Lewis Primary Health Care Center. With over 15 years of management experience in strategic planning, HR management, and operations, he integrates medical, dental, and behavioral health services to create a robust health care environment. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Public Administration from Savannah State University and Master of Public Health from Armstrong Atlantic State University. With a strong background in compliance, risk management, and staff development, Hilton plays a crucial role in the center’s strategic goals and community engagement. Hilton is a 2025 Leadership Savannah graduate. Hilton serves as the chair of the Savannah State University MPA advisory board and serves on the advisory council for Georgia Southern’s Jiann Ping Hsu College of Public Health and Morris College Health Science Program. Hilton also serves the City of Port Wentworth Downtown Development Authority.
“Healthy Savannah is important because it helps improve the health and well-being of people in Savannah and Chatham County. Healthy Savannah works to prevent health problems such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease by promoting healthy eating and physical activity. Healthy Savannah also improves access to community resources such as fresh foods through farmers markets, community gardens, and nutrition programs. In addition, Healthy Savannah partners with schools, healthcare providers, and local leaders to create policies that support healthier lifestyles. Overall, Healthy Savannah impacts the community by helping residents live healthier lives and reducing health disparities.”
Matthew Gunn
Matthew Gunn is a Team Lead for Community Marketing with CareSource. He serves as a Board member for several community organizations, including Board Chair for Relentless Grace Inc., Consumer Credit Counseling, & Effingham Family Connection.
Matthew Gunn is the founder and Lead Pastor of Hosanna Church International in Pooler, Georgia. He is also the Co-Founder/Organizer of the Love & Soul Experience & The Love & Soul Family Festival, where he and his wife Kimberly host several community events throughout the year with a focus on families, healthy living, and entertainment.
With more than 20 years of experience working in healthcare and serving communities, Matthew has a passion for seeing individuals live healthy and whole lives.
Matthew’s mission in life is to help renew minds and change lives!
“Healthy Savannah is important because it aims to make families in Savannah healthier, leading to a healthier community.”
“Healthy Savannah is important because it aims to make families in Savannah healthier, leading to a healthier community.”
Sarah Hanson
Sarah Hanson is an experienced health and well-being educator with over 15 years of demonstrated history working in the industry. She recently left the City of Savannah where she served as the Health & Wellness Coordinator for over 11 years to take on a new role as the Bē Health & Well-Being Navigator with St Joseph’s/Candler. She is skilled in disease management, occupational health and health and wellness coaching. Sarah earned her Master’s in Public Health from Armstrong Atlantic State University with a strong emphasis in resiliency and positive psychology; as such, she has many tools to help increase resiliency and positivity toward increased success with lifestyle change. Sarah has received Certifications from WellCoaches School of Coaching as a Certified Health and Wellness Coach (CHWC), National Commission for Health Education Credentialing as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), YogaRenew as a Certified Mindfulness Coach and Emory University Diabetes and Technical Center as a Certified Lifestyle Coach for Diabetes Prevention.
Sarah is passionate about health education and helping others reach their health goals. As a health educator and wellness coach she believes in creating positive motivation through coaching conversation by focusing on participants individual strengths and internal resources to succeed in their goals. She has extensive experience in partnering, coaching and training individuals who are navigating their way with preexisting conditions and multiple challenges to see opportunities where obstacles previously resided.
Sarah “walks her talk” being a wellness coach and lives her life based on her values of faith, family, health, food and travel. She has a passion for running and has completed 14 ultra/marathons, mostly in the mountains, additionally she enjoys obstacle course races, biking and yoga. For relaxation she likes spending time with her family, yoga, reading and just being.
“Healthy Savannah is important as it encourages healthy living for all and, in turn, makes Savannah a healthier place to live, work, and play. I’ve been witness to several initiatives brought to fruition through the hard work of Health Savannah and its partners. The best part for me is they are working to make the healthy choice the easy choice for all of us!”
“Healthy Savannah is impacting our community by creating opportunities for the public to live healthy lives. They provide people with the tools to be stewards of their own well-being in an effort to make the healthy choice the easy choice!”
Otis Johnson, PhD
Founding Member
Dr. Johnson is the former mayor of Savannah, GA. While Mayor, in 2007, he planted the seed to start Healthy Savannah. A Savannah native, he graduated from Beach High School in 1960, Armstrong Junior College in 1964 (now Georgia Southern University) as the first African American graduate, and the University of Georgia in 1967. He served from 1959 to 1965 in the U.S. Naval Reserve. In 1969, he earned a master’s degree in social work from Clark Atlanta University, and, in 1980, he received his Ph.D. from the Heller School of Social Policy and Management at Brandeis University.
Before becoming mayor, Johnson worked for the Economic Opportunity Authority, Model Cities Program, and Savannah State University. From 1983 until 1988, he served as the City Council Representative for the second district of Savannah. He then became the Executive Director of the Chatham Savannah Youth Futures Authority He formerly served as chair of the board of trustees of the Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation. A longtime neighborhood leader on issues of youth development, he led the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Youth Futures Commission in Savannah. He also was dean of the School of Social Work at Savannah State and is a member of the Aspen Roundtable on Comprehensive Community Change.
MarRonde Lumpkin-Lotson
MarRonde A. Lumpkin-Lotson is the Business Opportunity Manager in the Economic Development Department of the City of Savannah, where she oversees the city’s Small and Minority Business programs as well as the business education programs targeted to entrepreneurs designed to help them start and grow their businesses. She has also played a significant role in the development of the City’s International initiative and is staff liaison to the Greater Savannah International Alliance. She has been with the City for more than 16 years.
Before joining to the City of Savannah team, MarRonde was City Administrator for the Town of Thunderbolt (Georgia) where she served for six years. In this appointment, she earned the distinction of being Thunderbolt’s first African American City Administrator and was also the first woman administrator.
MarRonde is a native Savannahian, educated in the local school system, and a 2x graduate of Savannah State University, earning her Bachelor of Business Administration in 1993 and a Master of Public Administration in 2000. MarRonde was recognized as one of our state’s Top 40 Under 40 Business and Governmental Professionals by Georgia Trend magazine. She is a graduate of Leadership Savannah and a graduate of Leadership Southeast Georgia where she remains an active and engaged alumnus. Presently, MarRonde serves as the Vice Chair of the inaugural Chatham County Historic Preservation Commission and works with United Way of the Coastal Empire Campaign Cabinet.
MarRonde is married to Marcus K. Lotson, and they have two daughters, Maria Janese (age 20), a college junior, and Morgan Ellese (age 15), a 9th grader.
She is also very active in her church and her community. MarRonde is a Diamond-life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a member of The Links, Incorporated, and several other professional, civic, and social organizations that also serve the community.
“Healthy Savannah is important to our community because it convenes a cross-section of area agencies to participate, advocate, and educate our citizens in all facets of healthy living. Our greatest asset is the ability to provide resources and create partnerships that provide an equitable, healthy experience for all across our entire community.”
“Healthy Savannah’s impact is achieved when positive policy changes and greater resources are provided that lend to a healthier environment, healthier lifestyles, and a healthier community.”
Claudia Reyes
Claudia is a Colombian native and has lived in the United States for 24 years. She deeply understands the Latino community and its needs and is passionate about connecting them with available resources. Claudia is a translator-interpreter proficient in both Spanish and English. She possesses administrative, organizational, and multimedia communication skills. She is also a Spanish teacher and the owner of Real International Language Solutions. Her company helps bridge the communication gap between Spanish and English speakers by providing culturally relevant language services.
Claudia is a reliable, energetic, and hardworking individual who can take the initiative and lead intercultural projects. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Multimedia Communications and a Master’s in Spanish and Education from Georgia Southern University. Additionally, Claudia is a volunteer outreach coordinator at Amanecer de Fe y Gloria Ministry as part of the Outside the Walls ministry. She is married to Leo Aldana, and they have two adult children and two grandsons.
Claudia has joined Healthy Savannah to help empower the community to make healthy choices and create a culture of health.
“Healthy Savannah is not just an organization; it’s a part of our community. It’s a network of local organizations that care about the health and well-being of the people of Savannah, our neighbors and friends. It’s also a platform that allows us to volunteer and make a difference in our community.”
“Healthy Savannah is making a vital impact by addressing food insecurities with culturally relevant approaches across Savannah’s diverse makeup, providing opportunities for physical exercise like Tide to Town trails, and disseminating information about nutrition and healthy lifestyles through the Faith and Health Coalition, among many other programs. They are not just talking about it; they are making a difference, “Creating an environment that makes a healthy choice an easy choice.”
Laura Schmarkey
Goodwill Southeast Georgia – Community Engagement, Grant Writer
Laura Schmarkey serves as Grant Writer for External Affairs and Community Engagement at Goodwill Southeast Georgia. She brings more than a decade of nonprofit experience, including eight years with the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, where she led community outreach programming. Laura is a graduate of Armstrong State University with a Bachelor’s in Business Economics and a Master’s in Leadership and Communications, with a focus on nonprofit development and advancing equity.
A dedicated community leader, Laura also serves on the United Way of the Coastal Empire Young Leaders Executive Committee as Community Involvement Chair, where she develops volunteer opportunities that connect young professionals with meaningful service. She is passionate about promoting health equity, economic mobility, and collaborative solutions that strengthen families and communities.
“A healthier Savannah is built when we remove barriers, advance equity, and create spaces where all families can flourish.”
Beatriz Severson
Beatriz Severson moved to Savannah, GA in December 2019 with the objective of excelling in her family Real Estate Investment Business, Heart Property Solutions, LLC with her husband, Kevin Severson. Currently, she sits as Community Volunteer in the Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition, Health and Mental Health Teams; Coastal Georgia Resilience Steering Committee, under the leadership of Lizann Roberts, Parent University, under the leadership of Michael O’Neal and HOLA Savanah Mayor’s Office Task Force. She has 30 years of progressive experience in Performance Improvement Programs /Patient Safety and Regulatory Compliance in the Healthcare Industry and the community in South Florida. Her most recent position at Health Services Advisory Group (HSAG), the Medicare Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization (QIN-QIO), Quality Improvement Specialist working on improving community outcomes related to Behavioral and Acute Medical Care Coordination , Readmission Prevention Projects and the Outpatient Antibiotic Stewardship Project. Before joining HSAG, she was the Quality Improvement/Patient Safety/Regulatory Compliance Director responsible for developing, coordinating, and administering hospital-wide performance improvement activities impacting patient health outcomes, and promoting safety and customer satisfaction at Jackson Health System, Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital, Miami, Florida.
Ms. Severson was born in Bogota, Colombia, and moved to Miami-Dade County 40 years ago to pursue The American Dream. She received her BS in Medical Technology from Universidad Javeriana, Bogota, Colombia, and she completed her Master’s in Science Healthcare Administration, MSHSA, at Nova Southeastern University in 2000, her Associate in Science in Nursing at Miami Dade College in 2004 and Six Sigma Green Belt Certification at Florida International University in 2014. Certified Instructor Community Resilience Model CRM in 2023.
Krystal Sharp, BSN, RN
K
rystal Sharp is an innovative leader with a proven history of transforming organizations through the application of targeted strategies designed to correct systematic flaws and personnel deficiencies utilizing various process improvement methodologies and promoting professional and personal development amongst staff.
She served on active duty in the United States Army for ten years, where she became an expert at operating Army training, logistic, and communication systems. Krystal was appointed to manage several departments, and, in each area, she made notable improvements and received accolades for stellar ratings during inspections, assisting with events such as the Paint the Town Pink run held in Iraq, and supporting combat efforts. She gained experience in logistic operations, human resource management, finance, legal, training & development, and business administration throughout her military career.
Krystal earned her bachelor’s in nursing from Armstrong State University and became a licensed registered nurse in 2017. She has been the Adult Health Supervisor at the Chatham County Health Department in Savannah, Georgia for two years. During her time in public health, she has assisted in improving the organization by providing high quality training to staff and delivering evidence based competent nursing care to community members. She was awarded the Georgia Public Health Association’s Maggie Kline Nursing Award for her efforts to streamline and set training standards in her department. In addition, she has assisted with activities including hurricane evacuations, COVID-19 pandemic response efforts, vaccination clinics, and numerous community outreach events, to include instructing an Infant Safe Sleep class. She is also available for collaboration as an Independent Contractor, and she plans to complete her Master of Science in Nursing degree and become a Family Nurse Practitioner.
“Healthy Savannah is important because it brings together change leaders from different backgrounds and offers a collaborative environment for community and organization leaders to brainstorm and take action to facilitate change across the city to combat food scarcity, promote safe environments, and advocate for policy changes that can positively impact the health and wellness of community members.”
“Healthy Savannah’s impact in the community is tremendous because of the number of collaborative partners who aid in promoting its mission. Strategies have been implemented and continue to expand to focus on nutrition, physical activity, breast feeding, and preventative health. These focus areas impact one’s quality of life; therefore, finding sustainable solutions or increasing access equals an improved sense of well-being.”
Chelsea Simpson
Chelsea Simpson is a dedicated community leader passionate about advancing health, equity, and well-being through collaborative action. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and community engagement, she works to inspire healthier lifestyles and strengthen access to wellness opportunities across the Savannah region.
In her role as Community Engagement Manager for the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, Chelsea leads initiatives that empower girls and families to build confidence, leadership, and lifelong healthy habits. Her work extends beyond organizational boundaries — she actively partners with local agencies, schools, and wellness coalitions to promote programs that support both physical and emotional health.
Guided by her belief that lasting change begins with connection, Chelsea strives to bring people together to create inclusive, thriving communities where everyone has the opportunity to live well.
Jazmine Spicer
Jazmine Spicer is a Savannah native on a mission to build healthier communities, dismantle barriers to wellness, and create systems that give every family a real shot at thriving.
As an executive leader with the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, Jazmine drives multi-site operations and spearheads community health initiatives that span youth development, strategic partnerships, and cross-sector collaboration. She doesn’t just connect organizations; she architects the systems that make lasting impact possible, bringing together healthcare providers, nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations around a shared vision for a healthier Coastal Georgia.
Jazmine holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Georgia Southern University and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Change from Colorado Technical University. She is a participant in the YMCA’s Multicultural Executive Development Institute (MEDI), deepening her expertise in enterprise strategy and national systems leadership. She also serves as Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Savannah South, a reflection of her enduring commitment to civic leadership and community service.
Her driving passions include women’s health equity, empowering girls and young women, and scaling mission-driven impact, making her a natural champion for the work Healthy Savannah exists to do.
A proud Savannahian, Jazmine lives here, leads here, and is deeply invested in the future of this community. She and her husband Eric are the parents of their daughter, Elena.
Armand Turner, MBA
Healthy Savannah — Executive Director and REACH Project Director
Armand Turner is from Gary, IN. After graduating from Indiana University in 2014, Armand spent the next two years working at several Parks & Recreation Departments across the states, including Denver, CO and the surrounding cities of Dallas, TX. In 2016 Armand took on the role of Recreation and Intramural Sports Coordinator at the Historically Black College of Albany State University, in Albany, GA. After 3 tremendous years working for the University, he settled in Savannah, GA in 2019 and began working with Healthy Savannah and the YMCA of Coastal GA for their REACH Grant. Armand now serves as Executive Director for the organization.
Armand earned his MBA from Savannah State University in 2024. He is an alum of Leadership Savannah and Leadership Southeast Georgia. In 2020, Armand also completed Smart Growth America’s Walking College and went on to mentor the 2021 class as well. Armand is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and serves as Board President for Friends of Tide To Town.
“Everyone deserves access to a healthier life, and we will only achieve that through collaboration and an understanding of the current barriers, along with why those barriers exist in the first place.”
Tina Tyus-Shaw
Tina Tyus-Shaw is a National Edward R. Murrow and Emmy award-winning journalist and Evening News Anchor at WSAV-TV in Savannah, GA.
She began her television career at WAGA-TV in 1986 as a receptionist/news desk assistant. She took advantage of that time in the newsroom to work and learn from reporters, anchors, and photographers. She also spent time at WOBR Radio on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, WRBL-TV as a news anchor.
April 6, 2022, marked Tina’s 30th Anniversary at WSAV-TV. She has explored breast health issues facing women for more than 20 years. Her work goes beyond health. Tina covered the late Nelson Mandela’s visit to Atlanta and the 1996 Olympic Games. Tina is the proud niece of Olympic Legend Wyomia Tyus, the first person ever to win back-to-back gold medals in the 100 meters in 1964 and 1968. Tina was chosen as a Savannah “Community Hero” Torchbearer for the Olympic Torch Run across Georgia.
Tina was inducted into The National Academy of Arts & Sciences Silver Circle for Lifetime Achievement in Television in 2016. In 2020, Savannah State University honored her with the Robert S. Abbott Memorial Award for Meritorious Service in Mass Communications. Tina has received Associated Press & Edward R. Murrow awards for her work in journalism. The State of Georgia honored her with The Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award in 2020.
Subsequently, by combining her love for television news and her passion for young people she created “Speakademy”, a course which teaches teens how to strengthen their public speaking and communication skills
Tina is a proud HBCU graduate of Tennessee State University. She is also a member of the National Association of Black journalists.
“Health Savannah is important because it offers our community valuable knowledge about healthy lifestyle changes. Not having access to healthy foods and that educational piece, a lot of people face health issues like high blood pressure. Seeing people suffer with these issues inspires me to do something to teach healthy self-care, and being relatable to different communities is key for me. Our communities need Healthy Savannah, but it’s all about strategy. One size fits all doesn’t work. While we all may not face the same barriers, we must admit food deserts do exist. We all have to be able to give people access to meal cards to improve their health.”
Johnathan Winbush
Mr. Johnathan R. Winbush is a native of Chicago, Illinois, with deep ancestral roots in Georgia and South Carolina. He is a writer and researcher of Low Country History and Culture. Johnathan also studies 19th Century American Thoroughbred Racehorses.
An alumnus of Xavier University of Louisiana, Mr. Winbush has over a decade of governmental & administrative experience. He co-founded The Ella Baker Freedom School; a parent-based, homeschooling initiative in Chicago. He has worked for the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum in Savannah with noted historian, Mr. W.W. Law. He also served on former Savannah Mayor Otis Johnson’s Citizens’ Task Force on Public Safety and Education. Mr. Winbush currently serves as the Outreach Liaison for Parent University and a Resource Specialist for The Front Porch, a risk-reduction program for families. Johnathan also coordinates special projects on community gardening to promote healthier lifestyles for the residents of Chatham County.
“Healthy Savannah is important because it is an organization on the leading edge of advancing policies and programs for health and wellness initiatives for all the residents of our greater community.”
“Over the course of the past decade and a half, Healthy Savannah has made a difference for those who have embraced the responsibility for their own health. My point of view is: We can lead people to water; though, we must assure them that it is clean and safe to drink!”
Tiffany Young
The Young Impact Group | Founder and CEO
Tiffany Young is a public health professional with over 15 years of experience in population health, chronic disease prevention and control, and
“Equity is the work of expanding what’s possible. When we invest in the health, hope, and power of every community, we don’t just change outcomes—we change futures.”