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Meet Team Hope

Leadership & Staff

Meet Oren O’Neal

Founder of BigHope

Oren O’Neal is a former NFL fullback turned community change-maker whose life story is a testament to grit, grace, and purpose. Born and raised in Stuttgart, Arkansas, Oren walked on to Arkansas State’s football team and overcame a rare, life-threatening lung condition to earn national recognition.

Learn more about Oren

Kennedy Sleet

Executive Director

Learn more about Kennedy

Jada Sleet

STEAM Support Educator

Shakeitia Locklin

OnCampus Teaching Director

The Board

BigHope is guided by a passionate group of leaders who bring diverse expertise in education, innovation, business, and community advocacy. United by purpose, our board ensures that every decision centers youth, equity, and impact.

Directors

  Chairman of the Board – Oren O’Neal

  Financial Chair – Adrian Rios

  Board Secretary – Wanda Johnson

  Development Chair – Toni Howard Lowe

  Marketing Chair – OPEN

  Audit Chair – Leslie Kamou

Advisors

  Advisor – Bryon Adams

  Advisor – Kelly Pierce