Dr. Malika Reed Wilkins

Dr. Wilkins brings more than 25 years of leadership in nonprofit management, public policy, and strategic marketing and communications. She joins WTS International from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), where she served for over eight years, most recently as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief External Affairs Officer. In this role, she oversaw enterprise strategy development, government affairs, marketing and communications, creative and digital media, and corporate engagement for the 11-county metro Atlanta region.

Her distinguished career also includes leadership roles at the Georgia Department of Human Services, the State Road and Tollway Authority—where she helped launch the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank—and in the nonprofit sector, where she spent more than 13 years at the Southern States Police Benevolent Association.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Wilkins brings a deep and personal connection to WTS International, shaped by years of dedicated service and leadership within the organization. She served as President of WTS Atlanta, where she led the chapter to receive the first WTS International Chapter of the Year Award and the Gold Circle of Excellence Award, increased sponsorship revenue by 50%, and initiated impactful partnerships with organizations like Dress for Success and Habitat for Humanity. After many years of chapter service, she joined the WTS International Board of Directors in 2024.

Her academic background reflects the same dedication to public service and leadership that has shaped her career. Dr. Wilkins holds a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications from The University of Georgia, a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University, and a PhD in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.

Read the official announcement here.

Kelsey Watson

Kelsey Watson brings over a decade of experience in nonprofit leadership, executive operations, public policy, and urban planning. She joins WTS International from the Urban Land Institute, where she spent six years, most recently serving as Chief of Staff, Americas, and Executive Director of Advisory Services.

At ULI, Kelsey partnered with senior leadership to advance organizational strategy, strengthen operations, and lead cross-functional initiatives across a complex, mission-driven enterprise, while also leading multidisciplinary teams that deliver strategic real estate and land-use guidance to communities nationwide. Her earlier career includes roles in planning, policy, and mission-driven organizations focused on housing, economic development, and the built environment.

Kelsey holds a Master of City & Regional Planning from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and a B.A. in Art and Interior Design from California State University, Chico.

Leslie McClain

Leslie McClain, CGMP, DES, Senior Meeting Manager, is a seasoned meeting and conference planning professional recognized for delivering exceptional attendee experiences and flawless event execution. With over 15 years of experience producing high-profile domestic and international events for associations, government agencies, and political organizations, she has planned and executed conferences, trade shows, and VIP events that blend strategic objectives with engaging, memorable experiences. Her career began in public relations and sports, later transitioning into politics, before her tenure at the Embassy of Canada sparked a passion for managing complex, high-level events.

Leslie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Bowie State University and a Masters degree in Event Management at San Diego State University. She holds the Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) and Digital Event Strategist (DES) designations. Her work has earned multiple awards, and she is an active member of PCMA, MPI, and ASAE.

Lashonda Winston

Lashonda has over 20 years of experience in marketing and membership management with nonprofit organizations of various backgrounds. She’s worked with organizations such as the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and, most recently, the Society of Defense Finance Managers (SDFM) to streamline their processes and increase and retain members.

During her time at NSBE, Lashonda was an integral part of cross-functional initiatives that exceeded membership goals, increased conference attendance, and trained chapter leaders on their respective roles.

Lashonda is originally from Macon, GA, and holds a B.A. in Organizational Communications from Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, NC.

Kim Williams

As WTS International's Manager of Systems & Data Analytics, Kim Williams ensures more than 10,000 members across 73 North American chapters stay connected through robust technology systems. She serves as the organization's technical lead, managing the Association Anywhere AMS, Higher Logic Communities & Informz marketing, the WTS website, and the MyWTS member portal while partnering with external vendors, membership, events, and operations teams to enhance member experiences.

Kim specializes in database management, SQL development, and system integration to provide data-driven insights that support WTS's strategic initiatives. Her commitment to service extends beyond technology, drawing from her experience as a full-time AmeriCorps volunteer with City Year and Teach For America, bringing a unique perspective to her work supporting the WTS community. She received a Bachelor's of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies in Education, History, and Mathematics from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

Lauren Curry

Lauren Curry, Marketing Manager, began her career with a year of service as an AmeriCorps VISTA focusing on capacity building, marketing, and event coordination. She went on to spend more than a decade in the nonprofit sector, blending marketing, communications, and fundraising to advance mission-driven work. Before joining Talley, she managed creative services and digital communications for a regional nonprofit that united individuals, businesses, and government to fund and scale community-driven solutions. She brings expertise in marketing strategy, digital campaigns, and creative production—applying these skills to drive engagement and strategic goals.

Lauren holds a BFA in graphic design with a minor in communication and an MBA from the University of Tennessee. She resides in Tennessee and enjoys traveling, reading, writing, and spending time with family.

Kwana Simpson

Kwana Simpson, Membership and Operations Coordinator, has 19 years of experience in nonprofit and association management. Kwana has extensive expertise in membership and finance support, operations, and executive-level administrative assistance. She has a strong commitment to organizational excellence and delivering high-quality service to members and leadership teams alike.

Kwana holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and currently resides in Maryland.

Tim Edwin

Tim Edwin is the external WTS International Controller via DNE & Associates. He has worked with WTS for more than six years, and manages the monthly production of financials for WTS International and the WTS Foundation.  Tim also supports WTS Chapters and Chapter Treasurers with trainings and support, processes scholarship check requests, and chapter rebates. 

You can email Tim directly at [email protected]. 

Alyssa Carlson

Alyssa brings nearly a decade of experience working for non-profits and associations driving revenue growth and organizational excellence as in her work at external partner Big Red M. She excels in engaging with both current and prospective association members to grow recruitment and ensure retention. Alyssa also has a successful track record supporting association events both behind the scenes, increasing sponsorship and exhibit sales, as well as providing on-site support. Her experience makes her a technical resource while ensuring a personal touch to every member and client relationship. 

Contact Alyssa to learn more about WTS Corporate Partners and Sponsorship Opportunities.