Mayor Pro Tem Brittani O'hara-Grant
Keynote Speaker
Mayor Pro Tem Brittani O'Hara-Grant is a Christian, community leader, Councilwoman for the City of Clayton, Alabama, and President of the Barbour County NAACP. With more than 14 years of experience in education and criminal justice, she is a passionate advocate for youth and community empowerment, leadership development, and civic engagement.
A trailblazer in public service, Brittani made history by running for the Alabama House of Representatives, District 84, demonstrating the importance of representation and inspiring the next generation of leaders. She was also recognized as one of the 2026 Top 100 Influential Women in the USA for her outstanding leadership and impact.
In addition to her public service, Brittani is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, serves on an advisory council to Congressman Shomari Figures, and is committed to creating opportunities that strengthen families, empower youth, and transform communities through service, advocacy, and action.
Mrs. Marsielena Williams
Superintendent, Ozark City Schools
2026 Gala Honoree
Mrs. Marsielena Williams is the Superintendent of Ozark City Schools, bringing more than 26 years of experience in education across Maryland, North Carolina, and Alabama. Throughout her distinguished career, she has served as a secondary mathematics teacher, Federal Programs Director, Principal of Carroll High School, and now leads the district as Superintendent.
A proud graduate of Carroll High School, Mrs. Williams earned her Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics from Troy State University and both her Master's Degree and Educational Specialist Degree from Auburn University.
Her exceptional leadership and commitment to educational excellence have earned her statewide recognition, including being named District 2 Principal of the Year (2026–2027) and a Top 4 Finalist for Alabama Principal of the Year by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS). She also serves on the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) Central Board of Control, where she continues to advocate for student success both academically and athletically.
Mrs. Williams is recognized for her visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to student achievement, and dedication to expanding opportunities that empower students, strengthen schools, and positively impact communities.
Dr. Keith Allen Stewart
Superintendent (Retired), Barbour County Schools
2026 Gala Honoree
Dr. Keith Allen Stewart is a distinguished educator and transformational leader whose impact on public education has been felt across Alabama for more than four decades. Most recently, he served as Superintendent of the Barbour County School System after returning from retirement to lead the district through June 2025. He also served as Superintendent of the Bessemer City School District and spent 12 remarkable years as Superintendent of Bullock County Schools.
During his leadership in Bullock County, Dr. Stewart transformed the district by restoring financial stability, modernizing schools, improving technology, strengthening leadership, and increasing the graduation rate from 59% to 89%. His visionary leadership also helped the district earn its first state athletic championships.
A nationally recognized educational leader, Dr. Stewart was named District IV Superintendent of the Year by the School Superintendents of Alabama and received the Excellence in Educational Leadership Award from the University Council for Educational Administration. He has served as an executive coach for new superintendents, an adjunct professor at Auburn University at Montgomery, and held leadership roles with numerous statewide educational organizations.
Before entering education, Dr. Stewart proudly served 10 years in the United States Air Force. He holds degrees from Troy University, Auburn University at Montgomery, a superintendent certification from The University of Alabama, and a Doctorate from Grand Canyon University.
Throughout his career, Dr. Stewart has exemplified visionary leadership, educational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to student success—leaving a lasting legacy across Alabama's schools.
Mike Schmitz
Community Leader • Philanthropist • Advocate
2026 Gala Honoree
Mike Schmitz is a longtime Wiregrass community leader and philanthropist whose commitment to service has touched individuals, families, schools, nonprofit organizations, and community initiatives throughout the region.
His dedication to public service includes serving two terms as Mayor of the City of Dothan from 2009–2017 and later serving on the Dothan City Board of Education, including as chairman. Throughout his service, he has remained committed to education, youth development, and creating opportunities for others.
Schmitz has also been a strong advocate for the military and military families, including serving as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Alabama (South) and supporting the relationship between the Wiregrass community and Fort Novosel.
Beyond his public roles, Schmitz is widely known for his generosity and willingness to give back. His support has reached youth, education, veterans, nonprofit organizations, families, and numerous community causes—often extending beyond financial contributions to include his time, resources, relationships, and personal involvement.
What makes his impact especially meaningful is that much of it happens without recognition or fanfare. His commitment to helping others reflects a genuine belief in strengthening the community and creating opportunities for people to thrive
ALL In Credit Union
Honoring ALL IN Credit Union
2026 Gala Community Impact Award
R.I.S.E. is proud to recognize ALL IN Credit Union as the recipient of the 2026 RISE Community Impact Award for its continued commitment to strengthening youth, families, schools, and communities throughout our region.
ALL IN’s impact extends far beyond banking. Through initiatives such as Bee The Boss, youth financial education, partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and on-site school credit unions, ALL IN is helping young people gain practical experience in financial responsibility, entrepreneurship, career readiness, leadership, and money management.
Their investment in organizations and initiatives with shared missions further demonstrates a commitment to creating opportunities and building stronger futures throughout the communities they serve.
The RISE Community Impact Award recognizes organizations whose work reflects the heart of our mission to Empower. Educate. Elevate. ALL IN Credit Union exemplifies that commitment through meaningful investment, collaboration, and service.
We look forward to honoring ALL IN Credit Union at the 2nd Annual RISE Above: A Night of Impact & Transformation Gala on November 21, 2026.
Our 2026 Gala Sponsors
Their partnership fuels our mission and helps us continue to Empower. Educate. Elevate.
