Outdoor Afro, the nation’s leading organization celebrating and inspiring Black connections to nature, has expanded its Board of Directors with the addition of ten exceptional leaders. Following a competitive and collaborative search process, Outdoor Afro is pleased to welcome the following new board members:
- Ariana Miller, Director, African American Alliance of Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) CEOs
- Benje Williams, Cofounder, Executive Director, Outlandish
- Clifton E. Sorrell Jr, Architectural Project Manager, NORR LLC
- Dan Kihanya, Director of Path Ahead Ventures, REI
- Jil Littlejohn Bostick, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility & Inclusion, Winnebago Industries
- Kasim Carter, Retail Sales Manager, REI
- Kristine Stratton, President and CEO, National Recreation and Park Association
- Lena Irish, U.S. Network Optimization Manager, Habitat for Humanity International
- Lulu Gephart, Vice President, External Affairs, The Wilderness Society
- Marie President, Regional Medical Director/Physician, Dignity Medical Group
These new board members bring expertise in industries ranging from community development and nonprofit governance to healthcare, outdoor recreation, and conservation. Collectively, they contribute substantial experience in strategic planning, fundraising, advocacy, and community engagement. Their leadership will enhance Outdoor Afro’s efforts to create inclusive spaces and strengthen connections to the natural world for Black communities.
The expanded board reflects Outdoor Afro’s dedication to scaling its impact through its nationwide network of volunteers, community partnerships, and outdoor programming. The organization’s initiatives aim to increase accessibility, sustainability, and opportunities for Black people to connect with nature. The new board members will play a critical role in guiding these efforts, supporting long-term organizational growth, and advancing the mission of Outdoor Afro.