Phillis Wheatley Community Center adds staff, elects new board officers
March 18, 2025
The Phillis Wheatley Community Center (PWCC) announced the election of new officers to its board of directors and the addition of two staff members. As the center continues its mission to empower individuals and strengthen the community, these leaders will play a vital role in guiding its future growth and impact.
New Board Leadership
Ted Kelly is now serving as Board Chair. With more than 26 years of experience in senior executive management and business advisory services, Kelly has led strategic growth initiatives, developed quality assurance measures, and managed client satisfaction programs for businesses ranging from small companies to international manufacturing giants. As president and CEO of Interserv, he oversees key business areas and positions the company for steady sales growth across the hospitality, government, restaurant, and retail sectors.
Steven Nail is now serving as Board Vice Chair. Nail is the dean of the College of Business at Anderson University and a labor and employment attorney. He began his career with the National Labor Relations Board before serving as assistant general counsel for Michelin, including two stints in France, where he worked on structuring the European Economic Community and served in the HR and legal departments. He later served as vice president of labor and employee relations at Michelin before becoming vice president of human resources at Hubbell.
James N. Haltiwanger Jr. is now serving as Board Treasurer. A financial advisor with Falls Park Capital at Raymond James, Haltiwanger was previously an entrepreneur and business owner. His background led him to join Raymond James, which he describes as the premier alternative to Wall Street due to its client-first approach, conservatism, independence, and integrity. He holds the Accredited Asset Management Specialist (AAMS®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF®), and Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®) designations.
Dennis Braasch is now serving as Board Secretary. An owner of Industrial Project Innovation (IPI), Braasch provides leadership and operational expertise. With more than 40 years of experience in the global engineering and construction industry, he has worked on projects across multiple industries and countries in both the public and private sectors.
“We are excited to welcome these board members to their new roles,” said Randy Jackson, executive director of PWCC. “Their experience, passion, and commitment to our mission will help us continue to serve the community while also imagining new ways to expand our impact in Greenville.”
New Staff Members
Laurie Franklin joins the center’s staff as operations manager. Franklin previously worked as a child advocate at the McCormick Children’s Home Inc. for four years before serving as executive director for two decades. A native of Laurens, she is a graduate of Lander University and brings more than 20 years of nonprofit operations experience to PWCC.
Antoinette Hall joins the center’s staff as arts coordinator for the Young Artists Program. A longtime Greenville resident, Hall has performed in theatrical productions across the Upstate since 2010. She studied music education at Brevard College and Converse College.
“We are thrilled to welcome Laurie Franklin and Antoinette Hall to our team,” Jackson said. “Laurie’s extensive nonprofit operations experience and Antoinette’s deep-rooted passion for the arts will be invaluable as we expand our programs and services. Their leadership and dedication will enhance the impact we have in the community.”
About the Phillis Wheatley Community Center
The Phillis Wheatley Community Center has been a beacon of support and opportunity for the Nicholtown community and Upstate South Carolina since 1919. From educational and recreational programs to community services and local events, PWCC remains committed to enriching lives across all generations. Learn more at philliswheatleysc.org.
