Momentum Leaders is growing, and so is its leadership. This fall, the organization proudly welcomes five accomplished professionals to its Board of Directors, each bringing expertise and a shared passion for advancing women leaders across Alabama.
“Our new board members bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion to our already vibrant and active board,” said April Benetollo, CEO of Momentum Leaders. “Their commitment to supporting women in leadership aligns perfectly with Momentum’s strategic plan to extend programming to leaders throughout the state, at all stages of their careers. I am excited to welcome this new talent to our board.”
Meet the New Board Members
Julia Bernstein
Partner, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP
Alumna, Executive Class 15 (2017–2018) Julia’s legal career centers on secured and unsecured transactions, commercial real estate finance, and multi-state corporate projects. A respected authority on the Uniform Commercial Code and secured transactions, she is a trusted advisor to financial institutions and corporate clients alike. Julia’s leadership and expertise have made her a pillar of Alabama’s financial and legal community.
Amanda Ford
Vice President of People & Culture, America’s Thrift Stores
Alumna, Executive Class 21 (2023–2024) Amanda has built a career around cultivating inclusive, high-performing teams. With over a decade of experience in organizational development and strategy—spanning leadership roles at Alabama Goodwill Industries and Georgia Goodwill—she is known for her dynamic approach to workplace culture and her commitment to building environments where employees thrive.
Katie Wells
Director of Lean Construction & Offsite Manufacturing, Brasfield & Gorrie
Alumna, Executive Class 19 (2021–2022) Katie oversees estimating, budgeting, and project management for major construction initiatives, managing over $350 million in projects to date. As a key member of Brasfield & Gorrie’s Lean Strategic Planning Team and Sustainability Committee, she has helped her company earn national recognition for innovation and sustainability.
Crystal Maxena
Accounting Manager, Vulcan Materials Company
Alumna, Executive Class 19 (2021–2022) With more than two decades in accounting and finance, Crystal is known for her precision, problem-solving, and collaborative leadership. Her work has strengthened operations across the construction and engineering sectors, helping organizations optimize performance and build stronger cross-functional teams.
Manisha Mishra
Deputy Director, Alabama Possible
Alumna, Executive Class 19 (2021–2022) Manisha leads statewide programs that expand college access and economic opportunity for Alabama’s students. Under her direction, the Alabama College Attainment Network has grown to include over 65 partner organizations. Her advocacy for equity and educational advancement has made her a recognized voice for positive change.
