Activate Selma Announces New Officers For 2026

SELMA — Activate Selma, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose focus is revitalizing downtown Selma, is proud to announce its newly elected Officers for the 2026 term.

As the organization enters its most ambitious year yet—featuring the signature “Rockin’ on Raiford” concert series and a robust calendar of community-building initiatives—the new leadership team brings a diverse range of professional expertise and a shared passion for the town’s growth.

The 2026 Activate Selma Officers include:

• Michael Sneed, President: Michael steps into the role of President with a vision for expanding Selma’s footprint as a destination for both residents and visitors. He owns two businesses in Selma: Old Fashioned Ice Cream and Appliance Bootcamp.
• Mike Jentes, Vice President: Mike will assist in overseeing strategic partnerships and community outreach efforts. His wife, Dr. Mindi Jentes is the owner and chiropractor at Brio Wellness Center in Selma.
• Jeffery Hamilton, Treasurer: Jeff will manage the organization’s financial health, ensuring the continued success of the group’s grant-funded and sponsored projects. He owns the Sellers building in Selma and is a founding member.
• Melissa Serrano, Secretary: Melissa will oversee organizational records and internal communications, including the weekly E-News to keep the growing membership connected. She is the Marketing and Sales Coordinator for JCAR & The Dupree House in Smithfield and is also a founding member.
• Hannah Stecher, CIO: Hannah will be responsible for the organization’s overall social and information strategy all while ensuring our public message aligns with the mission of revitalizing downtown Selma and supporting local businesses. She is the RN Supervisor at Home Life Care Home Care Agency in Selma.

The Leadership Team has also expanded from 8 members to 12 members in 2026. The seven at-large members are: Cindy Brookshire (founding member), Tammy Braglin, Heidi Hester, Ron Hester, Chandler Pernell, Lynn Stanley, and Kim Wooten.

“I am excited to be at the helm of this amazing team,” said President, Michael Sneed. “Our mission remains focused on ‘activating’ the heart of Selma through events, local business support, and community pride. With this new leadership, we are ready to build on the momentum of the past 8 years and make 2026 our most impactful one yet.”

Activate Selma Inc. is a group of residents, volunteers, and business owners in Selma, North Carolina, who are revitalizing and uplifting our beloved rail community and all it has to offer. Our vision statement: We don’t complain; we take action! Our mission statement: By changing ourselves, we change our community, and create a new record of success for Selma.

Activate Selma invites the public and local business owners to join them for their Wednesday weekly meetings and all of their upcoming events. For more information on sponsorship opportunities or how to get involved, please visit www.ActivateSelmaNC.com.