Our team
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Retired Principal
Rhonda B. Green is a retired dedicated educator with 30 years of experience in both public and charter schools. She has a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida and a Masters Degree from Howard University. She spent her entire career working in the DMV to include Arlington County Public Schools, Prince George’s County Public Schools and the District of Columbia Public Charter Schools. As a school principal, her primary responsibilities included overseeing the operations of the school and providing a safe and productive learning environment for students. As a school leader she was responsible for many regulatory requirements from financial compliance, employment law, anti-discrimination, property and contractor issues. In addition, she was expected to provide guidance to her staff to ensure compliance with any federal, state or local grants the school may have been awarded. Her leadership style was clear and concise when setting expectations for grant implementation in the schoolhouse. First she developed a critical understanding of the regulatory framework expectations, next she determined how implementation looks at various levels within the organization and then established procedures that allowed for maintaining appropriate documentation and adherence to procurement policies. Finally, with consistent policy review, training and progress monitoring she was able to assert that obligations were met and individuals knew how to accomplish those obligations that would enable the organization to be audit ready at all times. Rhonda Green insisted on a standard of excellence within the organization because she understood that grant compliance was important; it ensured that organizations could continue to receive funding for current and future programs. She looks forward to continuing to uphold this standard of excellence with the MFRAC team as they continue to be a support in the community they serve. Ms. Green is a servant leader at her core, she served proudly in the Army Reserves and Army National Guard for eight years. She has also served as a board member on her community’s Homeowners Association since 2022. Ms. Green has been married to Samuel Green Jr. for almost three decades. Together, they have one son, Sam3. She also has a bonus son, Brandon. He and his wife, Kia have 6 daughters, who she affectionately call the “Greenbeans”.
Youth Board Director
Shea Thomas is a dedicated and dynamic Towson University student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, with an anticipated graduation date of December 2025. A passionate advocate for community service, Shea actively volunteers with the Prince George's County Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (CPAAA) and the Prince George's County Police Department, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing public safety and community well-being. Shea brings her enthusiasm for serving others to her role as Youth Board Director on the Board of Directors for the Mid-Atlantic Food Resilience and Access Coalition (MAFRAC). In this capacity, she contributes fresh perspectives and a drive to support initiatives that strengthen food security and community resilience. Shea’s interest in grant writing for non-profits further underscores her dedication to fostering meaningful change through impactful programs and funding opportunities. Beyond her academic and professional endeavors, Shea has a passion for working with children and often spends her holiday breaks babysitting, providing care and mentorship. She also enjoys shopping, traveling, and exploring culinary delights as a self-proclaimed foodie, enriching her personal experiences while staying engaged with diverse communities. Shea is affiliated with several organizations that reflect her commitment to public health and community service, including the Maryland Public Health Association (MdPHA), Towson University Students for Public Health (Student Chapter of the MdPHA), and the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW). Shea’s blend of academic knowledge, hands-on experience, and unwavering passion for service positions her as an inspiring young leader committed to making a difference in her community and beyond.
NASA Scientist
Aisheng Wu received the B.S. degree in atmospheric science from the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China, and the M.Sc. degree in atmospheric remote sensing from the Chinese Academy of Science, Institute of Plateau Atmospheric Physics, Lanzhou, China in 1984 and 1987 respectively, and the Ph.D. degree in biometeorology/soil physics from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada in 1999. Currently he is with both MODIS and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Characterization and Support Teams at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). He served as the technical lead for MCST TEB group between 2009 and 2013 and the MCST technical leader between 2014 and 2020 at Science and Systems Applications, Inc.
Retired Program Director
Brenda Mahan just recently retired from The Society of St. Andrew after 2 years as a program coordinator. During those 2 years she was able to rescue over 2.3 million pounds of food and serve over 40 pantries, schools and feeding agencies with that food. Prior to her employment with The Society of St. Andrew she was in the mortgage banking industry for over nineteen years. Brenda resides with her husband Bill on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Chef and CEO
Shawn Lightfoot: A native Washingtonian, Chef Shawn Lightfoot is also running a successful and sustainable business while giving back to his community. DAS Food Consulting Group is an artisan-styled experience, with a mission to mentor beginning entrepreneurs, shape and mold persons who want a career in food service and to better serve and service the residents East of The River and neighboring communities regionally. By training individuals “to craft and serve naturally prepared and artistically designed foods,” says Chef Lightfoot summarizing the mission behind his business. He employs at-risk youth, returning citizens, veterans, and/ or persons with disabilities, and legal immigrants that would otherwise have a difficult time finding employment. He also mentors’ young adults through various workshops and programming who aspire to be chefs, business owners, or skilled in the hospitality sector. Chef Lightfoot is defying the standards of grassroots employers everywhere and providing an amazing and unique culinary experience for his community.
Retired U.S. Army Veteran
Marcus D. Roberson is a U.S. Army veteran whose experience in logistics, construction, natural resource conservation, and contracting has deeply shaped his approach to farming. His focus on water resource management, environmental stewardship, and soil health reflects a steadfast commitment to leaving the land better than he found it, with a long-term vision for future generations. In 2017, Marcus completed Arcadia’s Veteran Farmer Training program, which set the stage for the launch of Arcadia's first incubator in 2018. Now in its seventh season, WoodBox Farm continues to grow under Marcus’ stewardship, driven by a passion for innovation and responsible land management. In 2020, he expanded his vision with the creation of Good Earth Therapy, a platform that equips farmers with the tools, resources, and networks needed to thrive. This initiative focuses on increasing cold storage and transportation capabilities while fostering relationships that promote food and land sovereignty. Marcus is a farmer, visionary, and advocate for sustainable agricultural systems that strengthen communities. Through his stewardship, he cultivates not only crops but also connections, promoting collaboration among farmers, markets, and consumers, with a particular focus on uplifting communities of color. Good Earth Therapy is more than a business—it's a movement to connect people and empower communities through agriculture.
Director
Trazy Collins is the Director of Clothing Center for Bread for the City
STAFF
CEO | Executive Director
Carla Y. Cash CEO |Executive Director | Advocate for Healthy Living; Agriculture Food Equity & Justice and Environmental Justice Advocate | Strategic Coordinator| Community Leader | Missionary | Carla Cash is a dynamic community leader with extensive experience in nonprofit management, consulting, and accounting. She currently serves as the CEO of Greater Expectations Consulting Firm and Greater Expectations Outreach Ministry Inc., where she leads efforts to empower communities and promote sustainable development. With a background that includes over 24 years in credentialing, case management, accounting and business, Carla brings strong financial acumen to her leadership roles. Carla currently serves as the Executive Director for MAFRAC, where she continues to expand efforts in developing resilient local food systems and supporting small farmers, particularly in underserved regions and capacity building for the Hunger Relief Organization and other Stakeholders. As Executive Director for MAFRAC, Carla applies her wealth of experience to advancing food justice in the Mid-Atlantic region. She focuses on connecting local producers, particularly BIPOC farmers, with underserved communities, working to address food insecurity and build resilient food systems. Her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is evident in all her work, as she strives to create lasting, equitable change in the communities she serves. Carla Cash is a passionate community leader and advocate with a strong dedication to food justice and equity in the Mid-Atlantic region. With extensive experience in community outreach, nonprofit management, and food system development, she has been instrumental in building programs that connect local producers and underserved communities. Carla has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized groups, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) farmers, and is committed to creating opportunities that empower these communities. Throughout her career, Carla has led initiatives that focus on sustainable food systems, hunger relief, community-based resource connector and community-based education. Her work includes coordinating partnerships with local producers, hunger relief organizations, seniors, free health clinics and schools to address food insecurity and promote healthier eating habits.
IT Coordinator
Daniel (Dan) Thomas is currently serving as the I.T. Coordinator for MAFRAC. Dan was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas and moved around quite often during his early years with a mother serving in the US Army. A graduate of the University of Texas in Austin, with a computer science degree and multiple certifications including an MCSE, CCNA, Security + and A+ certifications. Dan has worked for American Medical Response as a DBA and Microsoft as an Engineer. While this is the first time Dan has worked in the non-profit world, he has more than a decade of volunteer work with various Food Insecurity and Assistance Organizations as well volunteer work with animal shelters. Dan enjoys cooking, BBQ, and camping.
Coordinator
Arniece Hillian is currently serving as a Strategic Community Coordinator with MAFRAC and as a Management Assistant for the Federal Government. She began her career in healthcare as a Clinical Technician at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she gained valuable experience in patient care and clinical operations. Transitioning into customer service, Arniece became a Customer Service Manager with OWL Pest Prevention, where she excelled in managing customer relations, leading teams, and streamlining service delivery. In addition to her professional roles, Arniece possesses expertise in Microsoft products, critical thinking, and teamwork. She has undergone diversity and equity training, which has equipped her with the tools to foster inclusive and collaborative environments. Her leadership skills, combined with a track record of success across various industries, showcase her adaptability and dedication to professional growth.
Administrator
My name is Tricia Thomas, and I was born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Gaithersburg, Maryland. I attended Salisbury University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Over the years I have worked in administration, logistics, accounting, contracts and customer service. The last 4.5 years I have worked in the non-profit world fighting food insecurity. I was employed for 3.5 years with Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado, (a Feeding America foodbank) managing their Retail Donation Program along with stewarding their donors and cultivating new donors. In 2023, my husband and I made the decision to make the move back to the DMV to be closer to my parents and help them through their golden years. This last year I was employed with Manna Food Center in Montgomery County, a large food assistance provider, managing a county funded program known as Community Food Rescue. I enjoy reading, traveling and being with my family and have one daughter. I am passionate about social justice issues, particularly in the belief that no one should go hungry.
Administrator
Kennesa DeNeal BIO Credentialing Specialist | Professional Administrator | Social Media Content Creator | Photography Enthusiast Kennesa DeNeal is a skilled Credentialing Specialist and Professional Administrator with a passion for maintaining the highest standards of compliance and operational efficiency. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Maryland Global, which has equipped her with strong organizational and administrative expertise. In addition to her professional background, Kennesa is a creative individual with a love for photography, capturing unique moments that highlight her artistic talent. She also works as a social media content creator, curating engaging content that resonates with various audiences, blending her technical skills with her creative passions. Kennesa excels in her ability to manage complex tasks while fostering creativity, bringing a well-rounded
Analyst & Strategic Support Specialist
Serge Thomas, Policy Analyst & Strategic Support Specialist A native of Akron, Ohio, Mr. Thomas brings experience as a Policy Analyst and Strategic Support Specialist from his time working in several area nonprofits, and from working in the political field from several campaigns, including three Presidential Campaigns. His non-profit experience comes from the areas of legislative advocacy, community affairs, and administrative support. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Wittenberg University (in Springfield, Ohio) and holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Politics from The University of Akron’s Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics. Serge also is a member of Montgomery County’s Mid-County Citizens Advisory Board (MCCAB), and serves as a member of the Montgomery County Food Council, a group dedicated to addressing issues of food insecurity. An avid Cleveland Browns fan, he also is a member of the Washington, DC area Cleveland Browns Backers Club. See you in the morning, Serge
