2026 Elevate Conference Brings Alabama Changemakers Together

By: Alabama Power Foundation staff

More than 300 nonprofit and community leaders from across Alabama gathered at Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds for the 2026 Elevate Conference, hosted by the Alabama Power Foundation. The annual event offered opportunities to connect, learn, and recharge while equipping attendees with tools and insights to further their work in communities across the state.

“Elevate is designed to bring our partners together to share ideas, build relationships and explore ways to better serve our communities,” said Staci Brown Brooks, president of the Alabama Power Foundation and vice president of Alabama Power Charitable Giving. “Our hope is that attendees leave reminded that we are all on the same team, and that collaboration is our greatest superpower for creating lasting impact.”

Brooks went on to share information about the various programs and initiatives the Foundation supports across its five focus areas: educational advancement, civic and community development, arts and cultural enrichment, environmental stewardship and health and human services. She noted that in 2025, the Foundation surpassed $300 million in total giving since its inception in 1989.

Additionally, Brooks welcomed six colleagues to the stage to represent Alabama Power’s six geographic divisions during a panel discussion, featuring Jason Davis, vice president of Southeast Division; Mike Jordan, vice president of Mobile Division; Jill Stork, vice president of Western Division; Anita Archie, area manager of Southern Division; Steve Marlow, area manager of Eastern Division; and Arthur Jemison, community relations manager of Birmingham Division.

Throughout the discussion, panelists shared how the combination of Foundation grantmaking with volunteerism and strong community partnerships can help expand opportunities across Alabama. They also showcased a wide range of initiatives, including JROTC and veteran assistance programs to workforce development, scholarships, healthcare education, coastal conservation, and regional economic development efforts.

The morning general session concluded with a special recognition of two longtime Alabama Power Foundation partners whose careers have left a lasting impact on communities across Alabama.

Mitchie Neel retired in April after 48 years of service to Blount County schools. Throughout her distinguished career, she excelled in a variety of roles, beginning as a classroom teacher and later serving as curriculum coordinator. Neel became widely known for her leadership as executive director of the Blount County Education Foundation, where she helped advance educational opportunities for students and educators throughout the county.

Brooks also honored Bill Tunnell for nearly 25 years of service to the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. During his tenure, the park was recognized as Alabama's "Attraction of the Year" by the Alabama Department of Tourism. Tunnell's influence extended well beyond the park through leadership roles with the Historic Naval Ships Association, the Alabama Hospitality Association, the Alabama Hotel & Lodging Association, and the Advisory Board of the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel, helping shape tourism and hospitality initiatives across the state.

“I never expected this recognition, but it means a great deal. Throughout my career, I’ve simply sought to serve others and leave a lasting impact, and I’m grateful for the Alabama Power Foundation’s partnership in helping make that work possible,” said Tunnell.

Another highlight of the event was keynote speaker Shelly Palmer, a leading voice on AI, media and business transformation. Palmer delivered a high-level overview of artificial intelligence (AI), artificial general intelligence (AGI), and artificial super intelligence (ASI), while also sharing practical tools and essential guardrails for navigating this rapidly evolving technology. However, Palmer reminded attendees at the end of his speech that “none of this replaces human taste and judgment.”

This was followed by “Pit Stop” breakout sessions focused on executive presence, fundraising efforts, and nonprofit storytelling. Led by experts Debra Nelson of Elevate Communications, Terra Mortensen of TerraGrants+, and Ronnie Gatrey of RLG Productions, the sessions offered tools and actionable insights to help organizations advance their mission and expand their impact.

The conference concluded with an inspiring keynote from Retha Nichole of HillRidge Consulting, who presented on “Don’t Grow Weary in Doing Good”. Nichole encouraged attendees to approach both their personal and professional lives with discipline, accountability, and purpose. She reminded participants to prioritize their well-being while serving others, leaving them with a powerful message: “Guard your joy like it’s part of the mission, because it is.”

“It was a privilege to be part of Elevate and share a message close to my heart,” said Retha Nichole. “I wanted every attendee to leave knowing that they matter and that the work they do matters. Their dedication, leadership and service create a ripple effect that strengthens lives and communities every day.”

After a day filled with fresh insights, practical tools and inspiration, attendees left the 2026 Elevate Conference energized and renewed in their commitment to building a stronger Alabama.

“Elevate is always an incredible opportunity to celebrate and thank the dedicated nonprofit leaders who make a difference across Alabama, and 2026 was no exception,” said Walter Hill, CEO of Wiregrass United Way. “From the theme and venue at Barber Motorsports Park to the incredible speakers, engaging panel discussions, and thoughtful gifts, every moment was memorable. Closing the day with an inspiring message from Retha Nichole was the perfect finish to a great event.”