The Team | Crossfire Movement

Meet our Board of Directors

Dr. Sylvia Carter is a global encourager whose life’s work is to inspire and empower women. A missionary, educator, philanthropist, mentor, speaker, and author, she is known for her authenticity and passion for helping others embrace their God-given purpose. She has written three Christian novels—No Wasted Tears, Beyond the Tears,
and Rescue Me.

As Co-Pastor of Siloam Church International, Dr. Carter partners in ministry with her husband, Pastor Jonathon Carter. She is also the founder of The Crossfire Movement, a nonprofit focused on empowering women and children. With more than 30 years of leadership experience, she began her career in the Clayton County School System, becoming the first African American National Board Certified Teacher and a Teacher of the Year honoree.

With over 20 years of accounting experience, Lisa brings deep expertise in General Ledger management, Accounts Receivable and Payable, Payroll, Billing, Budgeting, and Forecasting across multiple industries, including construction, retail, real estate, security, and engineering. Known for her organization, accuracy, and reliability, she streamlines financial processes, ensures compliance, and provides clear financial insights that support effective decision-making.

Since joining Siloam Baptist Church in 1996, Lisa has served as a Youth Counselor, choir member, Director of the Church Bookstore, and currently as AV Media Ministry Leader. She also volunteers with The Crossfire Movement, reflecting her commitment to
faith, service, and meaningful community impact.

With more than 40 years of corporate leadership experience, Mark has built a distinguished career with Procter & Gamble and Chick-fil-A. He spent 23 years at Procter & Gamble in food manufacturing and sales, followed by 19 years with Chick-fil-A
in Quick Service Restaurant operations and franchisee selection. He currently serves as Senior Principal Operations Lead for Franchisee Selection in the U.S. Southeast Region.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Mark has lived and worked across several cities and has been married to his wife, Annella (“Nell”), for nearly 34 years. They are the proud parents of one daughter, Ciara (“Ce Ce”). Mark enjoys fishing, gardening, and restoring vintage automobiles, and his community involvement includes board service and leadership roles. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and ServeSafe Food Safety.

Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Arnold Pleasant, a native of Norfolk, Virginia, earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Saint Paul’s College and was commissioned into the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery Corps in 1985. He later transitioned to the Quartermaster Corps, serving in leadership and logistics roles across Germany, Texas, Georgia, Korea, Virginia, Kuwait, and multiple major Army commands. He holds master’s degrees in Logistics Management and Military Operational Art and Science, along with extensive professional military education.

Over his distinguished career, he served as Company Commander, Joint Logistics Instructor, Battalion Support Operations Officer, Primary Inspector General for U.S. Army Cadet Command, and USARCENT Theater Transportation Officer, concluding as Deputy Chief of the G4 Mobility Branch for the U.S. Third Army. A decorated combat veteran, his honors include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award), Army Commendation Medal, and others. He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.

Ms. Alesia Bailey is a retired investigative analyst with over 37 years of federal law enforcement experience in the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. She developed and facilitated training programs, held leadership roles, and became a trusted mentor. A
Certified Training Instructor, Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, and Certified Grant Writer, her strengths include research, analytics, report writing, and training facilitation.

For more than 30 years, Alesia has been an active member of Siloam Church International, serving in multiple ministry roles, and she volunteers as a lead teacher for the Finish Strong Learning Pod, supporting scholars academically and socially. Alesia graduated from the Bibb County Public School system and Georgia College & State University and is continuing her education in Religious Studies. Alesia resides in Jonesboro, Georgia, and is the proud mother of one son.

Brooke Smith is the local Owner and Operator of Chick-fil-A South Fulton Parkway at 92. Her background is in Chemical Engineering, and she previously spent 10+ years in the Energy Industry.

Brooke is passionate about supporting and partnering with underserved communities to provide opportunities for youth development. As a graduate of the Atlanta Public School System and the Georgia Institute of Technology, she credits her educational background as being a catalyst in her path towards entrepreneurship.

Gerald Harris’s journey began in Atlanta, Georgia, as the youngest of nine siblings—an experience that instilled in him a strong work ethic, resilience, and a deep commitment to community. His dedication to service led him to the United States Marine Corps, where he held multiple leadership roles that shaped his discipline, character, and sense of purpose.

In addition to his military service, Harris built an extensive corporate career in the telecommunications industry, developing deep expertise in operations, leadership, and strategic execution. His combined professional experience and personal values have positioned him to make a meaningful impact in community-focused initiatives. He is honored to serve as a newly appointed board member of The Crossfire Movement, where he brings his commitment to excellence and service to the organization’s mission.