President

Mark Williams 

Hi, I’m Mark! I have been at the University of Kentucky for 5 years now serving as a career advisor for the Stuckert Career Center and currently as a Senior Program Advisor for Community and Professional Programs. Over time, I’ve realized that my passion is serving students and helping them transition from college into their careers, so I’m ecstatic to be able to serve on this student-led board helping better the Commonwealth community!

Executive Director & Vice President 

Hallie Rice

Hi y'all! I'm Hallie, a Louisville native, community activist, and person who believes in humanity. I'm glad to be back in my hometown working to make it better for everyone. I believe everyone deserves the respect to be treated like a human regardless of our differences and the sad truth is that that's not the case right now. Through Roots of Purpose, I hope to change that, giving everyone a second chance and making the place we all call home one that isn't segregated by poverty but brought together by kindness, love, and respect.

Treasurer - Fundraising Committee​

Ronnie "Pony" Morris 

Hi, I’m Pony. I’m an organizer with Vocal-KY. I’m a member of People’s Action. I also was part of the MAT Act passing. I was houseless for many years, living under a bridge to now living in a house. I used to be addicted to drugs now I advocate for Suboxone. I have my peer support. I get out and help people get there voice back to show them they are worth it because if I can they can as well.

Officer - Board Member

Kayla Woodson

Hi! My name is Kayla and I am from Louisville, Kentucky. I have a degree in Political Science and I’m currently in my final semester for a master's in Public Administration with a certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Kentucky Martin School.

Additionally, I am an intern for the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s General Counsel to the Governor.

In my free time I am reading, studying African American voting behavior, and being the best big sister to 3 younger brothers.

Board Member - Bylaws Committee

Alex Elswick

Alex Elswick is a tireless advocate for people who use drugs and people with substance use disorders. He currently serves the University of Kentucky as an Assistant Extension Professor for Substance Use Prevention and Recovery. Alex is the co-founder of Voices of Hope, a non-profit Recovery Community Organization and the co-founder of the UK Collegiate Recovery Community. He is a trained researcher and therapist, but most importantly, Alex is himself a person in long term recovery from the chronic disease of addiction.

Board Member - Fundraising Committee

Keith Williams

Hey, my name is Keith and I am a board member for Roots of Purpose. I am very ecstatic about joining the movement. I have a purpose, and that purpose is to help others on their journey of need. For seven years I have been helping people who are struggling with their mental health, addiction, and homelessness. I am really excited about joining the team and will be of service however I can. It is a pleasure to be on this team.

Board Member - Communications Committee

Myka Smith-Jackson

Hi everyone! I’m Myka, a senior political science major on the international relations track with a psychology minor and a peace studies certificate at the University of Kentucky. I am glad to be part of this amazing non-profit organization and to be able to give back to the Kentucky community. I hope to create an impactful change one person at a time through Roots of Purpose.