Tamika E. Jenkins, CEcD
Executive DIRECTOR
Having traveled the world with her Army Veteran parents, Tamika comes to HCEDA from Mississippi County, Arkansas with 15 years of economic development experience. She is no stranger to collaborating with people from all levels of society. Her arduous work has assisted in creating jobs, leading workforce development initiatives, establish partnerships, working with non-profit organizations, and becoming a key player in collaborating with communities and businesses to develop working relationships and strong partnerships throughout the South. In 2021 Tamika earned her CEcD, an accomplishment she is extremely proud of. During her tenure, she has assisted in the creation of numerous net new jobs and lead workforce development initiatives including receiving the FIRST ACT Work Ready Certification award for Arkansas. Having a B.S. in Materials Engineering from Iowa State University and an M.S.M in Project Management, her executive skills will start and finish projects. Tamika had the pleasure to work with the White Rural Impact project created to attack generational poverty. Tamika's accolades include being among the top 10 Northeast Arkansas Women in Business, 2021 AY Intriguing Women, and AR Money and Politics Magazine "2021 Influencers of the Year". In addition, she has completed numerous leadership programs to assist with her educational goals and community involvement. Her goal is to meet the needs for business and community partners that will spur growth within Hinds County, Mississippi.
Luxie L. Frison
Director of Office Management & Accounting
An accountant by trade, Luxie is responsible for managing the office operations of the Authority. This includes accounts payable, payroll, and auditing. She is a graduate of Grambling State University where she earned a Bachelor's of Science in Accounting.
Kemsye T. Smith, CWDP
Director of Workforce Development
A native of Jackson, Kemsye has over 20 years of experience working in the government, private and nonprofit sectors. She brings with her a strong skill set in organization, administration and project management along with a heart for community service. Kemsye is a graduate of Jackson State University with a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Social Work. She is also a Certified Workforce Development Professional (CWDP) as designated by the National Association of Workforce Professionals.