Our board brings together lived experience, professional knowledge, and a shared commitment to helping people find support, connection, and hope. Each member gives their time because they care deeply about the people who call our community home.
Samantha Bowman · President
Samantha worked for the Department of Children’s Services for nearly seven years and now serves as DeKalb County’s Youth Service Officer, connecting youth and families with services that can help them succeed. She is co-chair of the Foster Friendly Coalition, treasurer of the DeKalb Prevention Coalition, and a DeKalb County Recovery Court team member. Samantha facilitates juvenile MRT each Thursday at The Spot with Justin Cantrell and supervises DeKalb Safe Baby Court. She founded Rooted in Tennessee from a simple conviction: people who are caught in generational cycles deserve support, connection, and a real opportunity to find a more positive path forward.
Teresa Cantrell · Board Member
Teresa has a heart of gold and brings that kindness into her work at NHC, where she helps care for older adults. Much of her service happens quietly behind the scenes: supporting fundraisers for people in need throughout DeKalb County and preparing food at Thanksgiving and Christmas food drives. Teresa’s steady compassion helps make sure neighbors feel cared for, remembered, and supported.
Jessica Duncan · Secretary
Jessica is a Cannon County probation officer, a Cannon County Recovery Court team member, and a board member for CASA of Cannon and DeKalb. Her work reflects a deep commitment to children, families, and people in recovery—especially those who need someone to keep believing in them. Jessica brings both experience and heart to Rooted in Tennessee’s mission of making meaningful support easier to find.
Brandi Keith · Board Member
Brandi is a home health nurse and a true backbone of Rooted in Tennessee. She is a go-getter who raises awareness, connects people with resources, and never loses sight of the person behind the need. She also works quietly behind the scenes for local fundraisers and can often be found preparing food at Thanksgiving and Christmas food drives for neighbors in need. Her firsthand experience in foster care makes her especially passionate about ensuring children in care have the support, stability, and encouragement they deserve.
Allison Safford · Board Member
Allison has spent her career with Youth Villages, beginning as an in-home worker and continuing her commitment to children who need one reliable adult to stand beside them. She is also a Foster Friendly Coalition member and understands the power of consistent care, advocacy, and encouragement. Allison brings a lifetime of devotion to children and families to the work of Rooted in Tennessee.
Ken Sears · Board Member
Ken has lived what feels like a thousand lives—from owning a donut shop and Hillcrest Restaurant to many other roles that have made him a familiar, caring presence in the community. As one of DeKalb County’s first CASA volunteers, he has made a lasting difference for children who need a steady adult in their corner. Ken brings humor, wisdom, and a wholehearted commitment to every child and family he serves.
Renee Steff · Treasurer
Renee is a Walmart pharmacy manager who approaches every person with patience, care, and a genuine desire to help. She also serves on the DeKalb County Mental Health Court team, where she sees the importance of compassionate support and practical resources. As Rooted in Tennessee’s treasurer, Renee helps make sure the organization can continue showing up for families and neighbors when they need help most.
