WTS

WTS International Staff

Meet the WTS International Staff

  • Dr. Malika Reed Wilkins, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of WTS International and the WTS Foundation

    Dr. Malika Reed Wilkins

    Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director

    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.

  • Alison Stern Headshot

    Alison Stern

    Director, Membership and Chapter Relations

    Alison Stern


    Alison serves as the Director of Membership and Chapter Relations at WTS International, bringing over a decade of experience in association membership management. As the Director of Membership and Chapter Relations, Alison will develop and implement strategies for membership recruitment, retention, and engagement, as well as manage the day-to-day operations of the membership department. Additionally, Alison will manage WTS International’s relationship and communication with its chapters and support chapter orientation and engagement.

    Alison has a proven track record of building and growing membership programs. As the first Director of Membership at The Pet Advocacy Network, she achieved record-high membership and retention rates through comprehensive planning, strategic execution, and robust reporting.

    Alison also worked as the manager of membership at the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI), giving her key insights not only into the process of making pavers but using them to build roads. Alison is looking forward to utilizing her past experience to develop new relationships between WTS International and a new aspect of the transportation community.

    Alison holds a Master of Arts in Anthropology from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and Spanish from Franklin and Marshall College. 

    In her free time, Alison enjoys baking, cooking, and spending time with her husband and two children.

    Alison can be reached at [email protected]

  • Maxine Headshot 2

    Maxine Katz

    Manager, Membership and Chapter Services

    Maxine Katz


    With five years of experience in membership engagement, Maxine is a results-driven professional dedicated to building lasting relationships with members and chapters. As the Membership and Chapter Services Manager, she collaborates with colleagues to implement strategies that strengthen connections within the community.

    Holding a Master's in Management, Maxine combines interpersonal skills, data management expertise, and human resource knowledge to optimize operations and inform strategic decision-making. A proven leader, she has successfully coordinated volunteer events, such as those at SFPE, and excels at motivating volunteers to support organizational goals.

    Known for streamlining processes, clear communication, and effective collaboration with stakeholders, Maxine is committed to driving organizational success. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, baking, and spending time with family and friends.

    Maxine can be reached at [email protected].

  • A headshot picture of Kim Williams, WTS International Manager, Systems & Data Analytics.

    Kim Williams

    Manager, Systems & Data Analytics

    Kim Williams


    As WTS International's Manager of Systems & Data Analytics, Kim Williams ensures nearly 10,000 members across 72 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 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.

  • Paula Harrison

    Paula Harrison

    Senior Engagement Specialist, Meetings & Events

    Paula Harrison


    Paula Harrison is a dynamic professional with over a decade of experience in administrative management, event coordination, and business operations. Known for her creative problem-solving and strategic decision-making skills, Paula has successfully managed office operations, planned impactful events, and fostered strong customer relationships across various industries.

    Currently serving as a Senior Engagement Specialist at WTS International, Paula oversees event logistics, virtual programs, and marketing initiatives, ensuring seamless execution and outstanding results. Her expertise extends to facilities management, staff leadership, and digital marketing, backed by a strong foundation in business administration.

    With a proven track record of driving efficiency and delivering high-quality results, Paula brings passion, precision, and a collaborative spirit to every project she undertakes.

    She obtained an associate's degree in business administration from Mercyhurst University and went on to study Sports Management at the illustrious Howard University.

    Paula is a Pittsburgh native, who in her spare time enjoys cheering on the Steelers, spending quality time with her children, and immersing herself in the arts & entertainment world.

  • Tim Edwin,  Indian Man with Black Hair

    Tim Edwin

    Controller, DNE & Associates

    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]

  • white woman, blonde long hair

    Alyssa Carlson

    Account Executive, Big Red M

    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.