Get to Know Us

Founder/Chief Executive Officer

Lenwood Coleman

Lenwood Coleman is the Chief Executive Officer, Founder, and Board Chair of Legacy Ventures. A decorated United States Air Force (USAF) Veteran, he is the visionary behind Legacy Ventures and other enterprises. With a natural business acumen, Mr. Coleman excels in creating innovative solutions that benefit communities and businesses. Since founding Legacy Ventures in 2019, he has worked closely with community leaders and stakeholders to foster economic growth and improve underserved areas. With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, Lenwood has designed impactful programs that promote sustainable growth. He is a recognized thought leader in the nonprofit sector, frequently advising municipal agencies. Previously, he served as Chief Program Officer at Groundswell Inc., overseeing a $10.5M program budget, and held roles such as Executive Director of various community organizations in Washington, DC. Lenwood holds an MA in Forensic Psychology, a BS in Business Management, and an AA in Information Management.

Co-founder/Chief Operating Officer

Wes Thorn​

D. Wes Thorn, Chief Operations Officer (COO) and Deputy Board Chair for Legacy Ventures, brings over 30 years of technical, administrative, and executive leadership. A strong advocate of collaboration, Wes has built key partnerships with local governments, businesses, and community organizations to further Legacy’s mission. He oversees operational functions, staffing, and company strategy, working closely with the CEO to manage business strategy and daily operations. Wes helps define project objectives, processes, and policies while informing stakeholders about goals and deliverables. He also provides high-level oversight of financial operations alongside Legacy’s financial department. As a recognized Subject Matter Expert (SME), Wes excels in leading mid- to large-scale web initiatives and developing strategies that ensure stability and growth. Previously, he served as Senior IT Web Manager at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where he enhanced web operations. Wes holds an MA in Mass Communications from Howard University and a BA in Broadcasting from American University.

Finance Chair​

Randal Leonard​

Randal W. Leonard serves on Legacy Ventures’ s board as the Finance Chair as the principal liaison between the committee and the full board. An adept financial professional with comprehensive experience as the Assistant Controller at Bowie State University since 2014. Randall directs the daily operations of the Controller’s Office, prepares year-end financial statements, and manages both internal and external financial reporting. He ensures compliance with grant regulations, overseeing documentation and management of $50M+ in grants. Randal also acts on behalf of the Controller in their absence, demonstrating strong leadership in university fiscal management. He holds a MS in Administrative Management with a concentration in Accounting from Bowie State University and a BA in Theology/Business Administration from Oakwood College.

Senior Advisor​​

Dr. Linda Kilby

Dr. Linda M. Kilby, PhD, RD, LDN, brings a wealth of expertise and impeccable knowledge to Legacy Ventures as a Senior Advisor providing strategic guidance, assisting with decision-making, problem-solving and driving Legacy’s organizational growth. Dr. Kilby is the Executive Director of NORTH, Inc., and serves as the WIC Program Director for Philadelphia, PA. As a Registered Dietitian, she has built a distinguished career through her involvement in numerous public health initiatives. Dr. Kilby serves on various task forces, including the National WIC Association Recruitment and Retention Task Force and the Maternal Mortality Review Task Force. She also gives back to the community through teaching various courses at local churches educating groups on proper diet and creative crafting. Dr. Kilby earned a PhD in Public Health from Walden University, a MS in Health Administration from St. Joseph’s University, and a BA in Home Economics from Columbia Union College.

Board Member​​

James Vines​

James Vines, Jr. brings 25+ years of security leadership and analytical acumen to serve Legacy Ventures as a Board Member. James is a consummate Director of Security, presiding over operations at Washington Square with Lerner Enterprises since November 2022. He governs a team of 12 Special Police Officers directing all aspects of strategic security planning, and policy and protocol development for this prominent commercial property. Previously, James helmed a staff of 34 officers serving as Director of Security at the Adventist World Headquarters for 10 years. James was consistently lauded for his understanding of unique threats and risks and vulnerabilities and implementing timely and effective security strategies. He holds a BS in Business Management from Southeastern University.

Chief Program Officer​

Dr. Tammy Jameson​

Dr. Tammy Jameson, an Organizational Management Subject Matter Expert (SME) with over 15 years of business consulting experience, holds a Top-Secret Clearance. As a trained Baldrige Examiner, she has helped public, private, and nonprofit organizations improve performance, applying the Malcolm Baldrige Performance Excellence Framework. Dr. Jameson volunteers on the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award Board of Examiners and was the first graduate of Walden University’s DBA Consulting Capstone Program. She has received recognition for her research on “Communication Strategies as Drivers of Nonprofit Donor Retention.” A published author, Dr. Jameson is committed to social change, volunteering with nonprofits, developing workforce programs for returning citizens, mentoring at-risk youth, and advocating for domestic violence victims. She holds a BA in English, an MBA, and a DBA. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and was recently inducted into the Walden University Online Chapter of Sigma Alpha Pi.

Dr. Don Jones​

Dr. Don Jones, MS IT, DBA MIS, serves Legacy Ventures as a collaborative Senior Advisor with 20+ years of international leadership across various industries. Dr. Jones’ executive expertise and leadership have been catalysts in leading and implementing a conglomerate of information transformation technology programs. He serves as a United Nations Youth Ambassador, collaborating with government officials to improve agriculture, health, and education resources. Dr. Jones also consults for well-established companies in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. He held the position of Chairman for the Washington DC Ward 8 Pandemic Emergency Relief Force Data Subcommittee, ensuring accurate data was presented, which was crucial to policy decisions, proclamations, legislation, and execution. Dr. Jones is also a certified professional in leadership development and diversity programs.

Philip Abbott​​

Philip Abbott comes to Legacy Ventures as an advisor with 20+ years of leadership, advisory, and technology expertise. He has extensive knowledge in cybersecurity, human resources, accounting, and branding. As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Abbott Business Group, Philip provides organizations with solutions for continuous improvement for a sustainable business culture. Philip is a Solutions Architect at Cpak Technology, where he reviews existing environments and analyzes what technologies are available and what software product must be developed to provide the best solution for the problem that needs to be solved, creating an overall strategic technical vision. He holds a BBA in Management Information Systems from the University of Georgia – Terry College of Business.

Julius Hall​

Julius serves as an Advisor for Legacy Ventures, utilizing his media consulting expertise contributing to the organization’s short- and long-term success. Julius draws from his experience, expertise, and perspective to assist in shaping Legacy’s goals to craft purposeful next steps. He is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ATR Consulting, LLC, and All Things Relevant Media, in Port Wentworth, Georgia with a broad focus on consulting services and media solutions. Julius is dedicated to helping businesses navigate complex challenges and remain competitive in today’s market. His extensive expertise across various industries makes him a prominent figure in the Greater Savannah area.

Chief Financial Officer

Tomecka Woody

Tomecka Woody is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Legacy Ventures, bringing over 25 years of financial management experience to oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Committed to financial compliance and accountability, she ensures that Legacy Ventures’ financial operations align with its strategic objectives. Tomecka analyzes financial data to support informed decision-making, enhance transparency, and improve operational efficiency. Her expertise is vital in guiding Legacy Ventures toward sustainable financial practices, supporting the organization’s mission of community empowerment. In addition to her role at Legacy, Tomecka is the CEO/Owner of Woody & Associates in Lanett, AL, where she optimizes financial capabilities for Fortune 500 companies and public entities, providing consulting on tax laws and business management. She holds an MBA in Business Administration from Troy University and a BS in Finance from Auburn University.

Chief Strategy Officer

Denise Pham

Denise brings a wealth of experience in education, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. With a degree in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration, she combines academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Her diverse career includes serving as a Registrar at a vocational college, launching start-ups, and a successful career in real estate. As a consultant, she has advised businesses ranging from small ventures to companies with over 300 employees, building strong relationships and partnerships.

Chief Development Officer

William Dengler III

William Dengler III is a multifaceted professional with expertise in both real estate and the music industry. He currently serves as the Vice President of Artist & Repertoire at Native South Records, where he oversees talent acquisition and artist development. Additionally, William is a Realtor and Real Estate Consultant with eXp Realty, specializing in residential and commercial property sales and leasing in California. As the CEO, Co-Founder, and Lead Project Manager at Sierra Bay Real Estate & Development, Inc., William leads home flipping, real estate sales, and development projects. Previously, he served in the United States Navy as a Submarine Weapons Specialist (Fire Control Technician 2nd Class) from 1998 to 2005. William holds a BSBA in Marketing from Hawaii Pacific University and has been a pivotal figure in both real estate and music, leveraging his leadership across industries.

Community Advocate

Isaac Roberts​

Isaac Roberts, a decorated United States Navy Veteran (USN) and USDA Subject Matter Expert (SME) serves Legacy Ventures as a Community Advocate and consultant acting as a bridge between neighborhoods and various organizations collaborating on steering committees, action committees, and community-based planning teams. Isaac has over 20 years of varied expertise in business development, finance, nonprofit consulting, leadership, communication, grants management, project management and strategy development. He is a seasoned entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | Founder of Better Communities Reimagined. Isaac also served as a Loan Specialist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture for over 10 years presiding over grants and loan application process servicing for Rural Development Single Family Housing. He holds a BA in Business Management from Southern Illinois University and an AA in Business from Tallahassee Community College.

Editor

Janelle Williams​

Janelle Williams is a dynamic Special Guest Relations Manager with expertise in event coordination, community engagement, and educational services. She has over 20 years of experience in leadership roles across museums, educational institutions, and political campaigns. Currently at Bard Graduate Center Gallery, Janelle oversees community events and program development, leveraging her strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Howard University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, and is currently pursuing advanced studies at Bard Graduate Center. Janelle has also contributed to numerous volunteer efforts, including The Biden Campaign and the Smithsonian.

Director of Project Coordination

Gloria Daniel​

Gloria Daniel, a 22-year United States Air Force Veteran, brings over 30 years of leadership and program management experience to Legacy Ventures as the Director of Project Coordination. In this role, she provides strategic direction, overseeing resources for projects with defined scopes and timelines. Gloria is highly skilled in resolving organizational challenges, project management, operational planning, technical writing, and grants management. She also serves as the Head of Upliftment at The Wellth House in Atlanta, GA, guiding women leaders toward holistic transformation. Additionally, she is a Senior Technical Writer for Engage Werks! Solutions and a certified Yoga and Meditation Instructor. Gloria’s previous roles include COO at R3 Capital Investments, Content Editor/Technical Writer at TechBridge, Inc., and Fiber Analyst at Verizon. She holds an MA in Theology, a BA in Religion with a minor in Psychology from St. Leo University, and an AAS in Communications Information Systems from the Community College of the Air Force.

Senior Advisor

Lynn Benander​

Lynn Benander is an entrepreneur and finance expert supporting the development of community-based renewable energy enterprises that bring ESG benefits – jobs, customer savings, wealth, and ownership – to their communities. She worked with others to develop strategies for communities, especially low income communities, to own their own solar projects. She supported the development of the People’s Solar Energy Fund supporting the development of 500MW of EJ community-led, community-owned solar, and the jobs, power and money that it generates for local communities. She supported the development of the Green Energy Justice Cooperative in partnership with Blacks in Green and developed a pipeline of 15 MW solar projects in their first year. For 20 years prior, she managed Co-op Power, a network of sustainable energy co-ops serving the Northeastern US. At Co-op Power she supported the development of a dozen energy efficiency, solar and biofuel enterprises and developed 4.5 MW of community solar.

Community Liaison

Amir Jamal Toure

Amir Jamal Touré, J.D., serves as Legacy Ventures’ Community Liaison Officer, working closely with leadership and community agencies to foster relationships and access resources. With over 20 years of experience in law, community advocacy, and partnership building, he plays a key role in advancing collaborative efforts. Mr. Touré also consults for DCAS Consulting and co-directs the Nobis Project in Savannah, GA. He directs cultural programming for the Geechee Kunda Cultural Center in Riceboro, GA. Mr. Touré has taught at Georgia Southern University and Savannah State University. He previously served as Section 8 Administrative Hearing Officer for the Savannah Housing Authority. A two-time recipient of the Georgia Secretary of State Outstanding Georgia Citizen Award, Mr. Touré holds a J.D. from Mercer University and a B.S. in Political Science and a BBA in Marketing from Savannah State University.

Workforce Development

Keith Wofford

Keith Wofford is the Workforce Development expert for Legacy Ventures developing and executing strategies that produce marketable roles for the workforce which predict long term success. Keith has over 20 years of experience in training and development, team building, and implementing tested training programs with evaluated outcomes which lead to increased productivity and performance. A progressive entrepreneur, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of K DUB Transport Inc., in Atlanta, GA, Keith helms multiple contracts with large retail stores. He also creates and presents training seminars on oversized truck driver safety. He has also performed as a Commercial and Residential Account Manager for the multi-national courier, FEDEX. Keith’s expertise also includes leadership, business operations, logistics, and contract negotiation. He has a wealth of Business Management coursework from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI.

Project Financial Analyst

Scarlett Tames

Scarlett Tames is dedicated to developing affordable housing and leveraging community investment to empower low-income families to build generational wealth. With seven years of experience in real estate private equity and investments, Scarlett is committed to creating high-quality, affordable housing at Legacy Ventures. She honed her expertise in real estate development through the USC Ross Program and holds a BA from UC Santa Barbara.

Marketing Operations Strategist

Helen Chen

Helen Chen is a Marketing Operations Strategist at Thing Media, bringing her passion for streamlining processes and driving results. With a focus on optimizing marketing workflows, she plays a crucial role in ensuring campaigns run smoothly and efficiently. Helen’s dedication to detail and strategic mindset enable her to enhance productivity and support the team’s growth. She is committed to leveraging her skills to deliver impactful results and elevate Thing Media’s marketing efforts.

Marketing Content Strategist

William Thing

William Thing is the CEO and Founder of Thing Media, where he leads as a Marketing Content Strategist. With a strong vision for creative storytelling and impactful content, William drives the company’s direction and growth. His passion for helping brands communicate their message effectively allows him to craft tailored strategies that resonate with audiences. As a leader, William is dedicated to fostering innovation, collaboration, and delivering exceptional marketing solutions that make a difference for Thing Media’s clients.