Rico Smith
Board Chair

A dynamic entrepreneur and dedicated community leader, with a proven track record in both the private and nonprofit sectors. As the Founder and Owner of the 46th State Candle Company, Rico has successfully pioneered a high-end brand, achieving statewide distribution and fostering partnerships with over 50 retail locations, including the Oklahoma Tourism Department. In his previous role as Executive Director of Represent Oklahoma, Riconc. involved spearheading efforts for redistricting reform and raising significant funds while uniting local and national partners.

With experience as a Marketing Strategist in Washington, D.C., Rico engineered impactful social media strategies that doubled online engagement and increased brand awareness at high-profile events. His tenure as a Senior Political Strategist in Oklahoma City involved directing multifaceted campaigns, achieving remarkable fundraising results, and advising candidates to outperform expectations.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Rico is committed to community service, mentoring students, and providing essential resources to seniors and families in need through various local organizations. His passion for fostering positive change and driving impactful initiatives underscores my commitment to both business success and community upliftment.

Travis Rollins
Vice- Chair

Mr. Rollins is a highly experienced program manager and community leader with a robust background in workforce development, operational management, and community service. Most recently serving as Program Manager at the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, he oversaw the day-to-day operations of American Job Centers, managing staff, coordinating service delivery, and ensuring program objectives are met. His role involved community representation to enhance awareness of OESC through active participation in local civic groups and presentations.

Previously, as a Talent Acquisition Specialist, Travis engaged effectively with job seekers and employers, providing vital career guidance and ensuring compliance with federal and state employment regulations. His management experience also includes serving as General Manager for Magnum Foods and Yum Corporation, where he excelled in staff development, customer service, and operational efficiency.

With foundational experience as a Program Coordinator for The Agency for Youth & Family Development, he supervised multiple units and contributed to the personal growth of youth through life skills instruction and counseling. Travis holds a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Langston University and an Associate in Applied Science from Rose State College.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Travis has led the True Light Missionary Baptist Church as Pastor since 1999, where he provides spiritual leadership, outreach, and support to the community. His multifaceted expertise combines leadership, workforce development, and a commitment to service, making him an asset in both organizational and community contexts.

Angela Houston
Secretary/Treasurer

An accomplished education leader with extensive experience in school administration, instructional coaching, and community engagement, Ms. Houston served as an Elementary Principal for 20+ years. Angela successfully recruited and developed staff, created a positive learning environment, and implemented strategic programs aligned with organizational goals to enhance educational outcomes. Her leadership focused on performance evaluation, staff development, and fostering an inclusive school culture.

In addition to serving as a Elementary Principal, Angela also served as an Instructional Coach, where she provided comprehensive support to teachers in curriculum implementation, data analysis, and instructional strategies, enhancing student learning through targeted professional development. Her role as Director of Upward Bound at Independence Community College allowed her to lead college readiness initiatives, coordinate participant services, and foster partnerships with schools and community agencies.

With a solid foundation in human resources as a former Human Resource Associate with ConocoPhillips and extensive administrative experience as an Elementary School Principal, she brings a multifaceted skill set that includes grant writing, conflict resolution, and strategic planning to improve school performance and community relations. With a commitment to nurturing academic excellence and developing future leaders, she is dedicated to creating impactful educational experiences.

Brian Eakers
Member

Accomplished Contract Specialist with extensive experience in the Department of Defense and Air Force, specializing in procurement, compliance, and contract management. Mr. Eakers currently serves as a Contract Specialist/Buyer, adept at ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and successfully managing multi-million-dollar contracts. He has proven expertise in analytical decision-making, budgetary control, and negotiation, consistently delivering high-quality outcomes through meticulous contract oversight.

Brian is skilled in preparing and reviewing delivery orders, Invitations for Bid (IFB), Requests for Quotations (RFQ), and Requests for Proposals (RFP), with a focus on ensuring compliance with technical specifications and contract clauses. He has a strong background in monitoring contract performance, conducting site visits, and performing in-depth analyses of contractor metrics to drive efficiency and accountability.

His prior experience includes key financial roles in both state government and private sector environments, including positions as an Accountant III and Tax Accountant. Brian is very proficient in GAAP compliance, financial reporting, budgeting, and variance analysis, with a proven track record of improving financial processes and enhancing operational efficiencies. He has strong leadership skills demonstrated through the management and training of accounting staff, fostering collaboration across departments to achieve organizational goals.

In addition to technical expertise, he brings a commitment to community service as demonstrated through volunteer work in church operations and business consultation. Possess strong interpersonal skills and a dedication to continuous improvement, making a meaningful impact in every role.