BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Brenda Kirk - Executive Director | Better Stewards & Broker Owner | Better Stewards Realty
I lead initiatives to provide financial education and resources to underserved communities. As the Broker Owner of Better Stewards Realty, I leverage my expertise to drive positive change in the real estate sector, focusing on equitable homeownership opportunities and comprehensive support for first-generation buyers. My dual roles reflect my commitment to fostering financial literacy and creating pathways to wealth and stability through innovative real estate solutions.

Patrice Macklin - Vice chair, Better Stewards
I bring expertise in job readiness, budgeting, and credit management. With a strong focus on empowering individuals through financial education. I'm dedicated to help equip communities with the tools needed for long term economic stability. I'm a dedicated advocate against financial elder abuse, I'm committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and advancing financial literacy and security for everyone.

Moira Conley - Board Chair, Better Stewards | Realtor
I am happy to serve on the Board and support my friend and Better Stewards Executive Director, Brenda Kirk, in her initiative to provide financial literacy through education and connections to resources for Milwaukee residents. As a Realtor, I want everyone to have the tools and resources necessary to achieve homeownership - or whatever financial goal they establish. As Viola Davis said, "All dreams are within reach. All you have to do is keep moving towards them."

Efrem Powell - Board Member, Better Stewards
I'm a seasoned Information Technology professional with over 30 years of experience working with several Fortune 100 organizations, where I've consistently demonstrated my expertise and leadership.
Currently, I'm dedicated to helping others achieve their personal and professional goals, with a particular emphasis on financial literacy. My passion for education and empowerment drives my initiatives to provide valuable resources and guidance to those seeking to improve their financial well-being.
Currently, I'm dedicated to helping others achieve their personal and professional goals, with a particular emphasis on financial literacy. My passion for education and empowerment drives my initiatives to provide valuable resources and guidance to those seeking to improve their financial well-being.

James Epperson - Board Treasurer, Better Stewards
I’m a passionate advocate for financial literacy and education, which I believe are the foundations for sound financial decisions. As the co-treasurer of Better Stewards, I bring my experience as a local business owner and executive to support the organization's mission, driving my efforts to promote financial education.

Michael Williams III - Co-Board Treasurer, Better Stewards
I’m a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in leadership and management, specializing in people development and operational performance. At North Shore Bank, I serve as both a Branch Manager, helping clients achieve their financial goals, and a Community Engagement Manager, connecting the bank with local organizations in NW Milwaukee and Wauwatosa.
My passion for promoting financial literacy among youth and young adults in underserved communities drives me to serve with Better Stewards.
My passion for promoting financial literacy among youth and young adults in underserved communities drives me to serve with Better Stewards.

Veron Gray – Board Member, Better Stewards
With over 31 years of banking experience, I currently serve as the Branch Manager and Director of Community Relations at The Equitable Bank, overseeing the Metro Milwaukee area. My passion for empowering individuals and families has driven me to spend the past 23 years promoting financial literacy in the community, particularly assisting first-time homebuyers through the complexities of purchasing a home. As a Board member of Better Stewards, I bring deep industry knowledge to lead initiatives that foster financial well-being and support community economic growth.
“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”
Proverbs 13:22