OUR MISSION

Paths for Success Foundation is a non-profit organization designed to assist Alabama citizens in obtaining skills, credentials, and/or certifications that lead to gainful employment. The Foundation provides opportunities by eliminating barriers that impact an individual’s ability to participate.

Neal is Managing Partner for the Advanced Economic Development Leadership Program. He previously served as Director of the Economic Development Academy at the University of Alabama, Chairman of the Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama, and Director of the Alabama Development Office (now the Department of Commerce).

Greg is Executive Director of the Alabama League of Municipalities. He previously served as Vice-Chair of the Permanent Joint Legislative Committee for Energy Policy and the National League of Cities’ Public Finance Consortium.

Michelle is Executive Director at Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments (TARCOG). She previously served the City of Huntsville as the Director of Planning and Director of Economic Development.

Terry is Senior Consultant for Mitchell and Advisory Consulting, LLC and is a licensed CPA in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. He holds professional memberships in the American Institute for Certified Public Accountants and the Alabama Society of Certified Public Accountants. 

Jimmy is the Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System. Prior to that he served as chief of staff for the system. Before joining ACCS, Chancellor Baker managed the gubernatorial campaign for Fob James and was appointed State Finance Director. Later he was appointed Deputy State Superintendent for Finance for the Treasury Board. Throughout his career he has held many different titles but one thing that has been consistent is his ability to develop partnerships across industry. He has served on numerous committees and boards to better Alabama and its people. 

In December of 2022, Helena became President and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama. Prior to that she was the Director of Strategic Operations and Growth and Vice President of Operations and Investor Relations at BCA. Throughout her career in the financial sector with multiple companies, she has been able to support individuals and businesses in their efforts to succeed. She was recently named a Yellowhammer 2022 Woman of Impact for her influential role and contribution to business and the community across Alabama.

Larry Norris is currently serving as Chairman Emeritus for Lewis Communications where he has served in leadership roles for four decades. He served most recently as president and CEO. Lewis Communications, under Larry's leadership, has become known as one of the top marketing firms in the Southeast. Larry holds a degree in Graphic Design and Advertising from the University of Alabama 

Jon Bargainer serves as the president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama. Prior to his time with Manufacture Alabama, Jon served in the Governor's office and the Department of Finance. Jon holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Alabama and an MBA from Auburn University at Montgomery. 

Jerry Grissom is the Vice President of Labor Relations and Workforce development at Alabama Power. Jerry has held many leadership roles across platforms over his 20+ years with Southern Company. Jerry holds a degree in Mathematics from Birmingham Southern and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Kevin is Vice President for Greenbush Logistics, Inc. and Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. Kevin’s involvement in state, community and professional organizations is extensive. He serves as Treasurer of the Alabama Trucking Association and on the Leadership Alabama Board of Directors, the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Alabama Power Company Board of Directors, and the Alabama Wildlife Federation Board of Directors Executive Committee.

Angela Conner serves as the Senior Vice President and Community Development Manager for Truist Bank. Angela is a community leader throughout her assigned territory leading projects in affordable housing, small business support, and financial literacy education while building strong local partnerships and implementing innovative financial strategies that drive progress. Angela is a graduate of the University of Central Florida.