Our Team
Terri D. Sanders
Carrying forward Nebraska’s only Black-owned newspaper and one of the longest-running African American publications in the nation, The Omaha Star is evolving what a community paper can be. Ms. Terri founded The Omaha Star Institute to protect, elevate, and extend the legacy of the newspaper. Through technology, open source learning, and an open door policy, we’re bridging the great generational divide; investing in those who invest in their community; and sharing skills that connect and uplift all ages.
CEO & FOUNDER,
OMAHA STAR INSTITUTE
Lakesha Green
Lakesha Green is an arts administrator and nonprofit leader with more than 25 years of experience in arts education, community engagement, and organizational development. As Executive Director of the Union For Contemporary Arts, she leads youth and community arts initiatives while advocating for equitable access to the arts in underserved communities. Green holds degrees from Alabama State University and Savannah College of Art and Design.
PRESIDENT,
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TREASURER,
BOARD OF DIRECTORSErnest White
Ernest White is First Vice President and Community Development Officer at American National Bank, where he has built a 40-year career advancing community-focused banking. A trusted leader in North Omaha, he is known for his work connecting residents and businesses to financial resources, supporting initiatives like the Carver Legacy Center, and serving on numerous local boards. Widely respected for his relationship-driven approach, White’s impact spans lending, community development, and financial education—helping expand access and opportunity across the communities he serves.
SECRETARY,
BOARD OF DIRECTORSNicka Johnson
Nicka Johnson is a financial coach and founder of Budget to Success, known for her direct, results-driven approach to money management. She helps clients build sustainable wealth by combining financial literacy with accountability and behavior change. Since 2018, her work has helped clients achieve milestones including improved credit, homeownership, and business launches—equipping them with the tools to transform their relationship with money.
Symone Sanders Townsend is a political strategist, media personality, and co-host of MSNBC’s The Weeknight. She rose to national prominence as the youngest presidential press secretary in history for Bernie Sanders’ 2016 campaign and later served as a senior advisor to President Joe Biden and chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black woman in that role. A former CNN commentator and author of No, You Shut Up, Symone is known for her sharp analysis and influence across politics, media, and public discourse, as well as her ongoing work mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Daniel J. Sanders is a Logistics Engineer based in Omaha, Nebraska, with experience supporting operational efficiency and supply chain systems within complex logistics environments. He is known for applying practical engineering solutions to improve distribution workflows and transportation coordination. He is also engaged in local professional and community networks, contributing to logistics and operations conversations within the Omaha business ecosystem.
BOARD OF DIRECTORSSymone Sanders-Townsend
BOARD OF DIRECTORS