Meet the people behind the work
Our Staff & Board
Every person on our team brings something different to the table; including, for many of us, lived experience with the systems we work to change.
Board Members
Board Treasurer
Dr. Lynda Frost is an Austin-based facilitator focused on boosting nonprofit impact. After decades of work at the intersection of mental health and the criminal legal system, she found her...
Board Secretary
Karen Gross is a restoration of rights attorney with Carmichael, Ellis, & Brock where she serves as a pardon and clemency specialist. Karen is also the Principal at Citizen Discourse...
Board Member
Jessica was born and raised in Houston but has lived in Austin since 2004. She received her bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Texas at Austin. She has...
Board Member
Elora M. Kindred is a U.S. Navy veteran, Certified Professional Recovery Coach, writer, and advocate whose work is shaped by lived experience with recovery, military transition, and rebuilding life after...
Board Member
Marcella Simms is a woman after God’s own heart, devoted to sharing His redeeming love through service, testimony, and outreach. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, her journey reflects God’s...
Staff
Reentry Peer Supervisor
Darla McAdams is a dedicated Reentry Peer Supervisor at Building Promise USA, committed to empowering individuals as they navigate the challenges of reentry, recovery, and rebuilding their lives. Drawing from...
Program Manager
Sarah Reyes is a Program Manager at Building Promise USA. She earned degrees in Human Development and Family Sciences and Social Work (2020), and completed a Master of Science in...
Administration
Neomie Smith is a retired employee for the State of California where she worked for 28 years. And because of a suggestion from her pastor at church she now serves...