About us
The Lillie Hardy Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded to empower and uplift the underserved communities in Simpson County, MS. Inspired, established, and funded by the remarkable work of Lillie Hardy, a prominent Black community leader, educator, elected official, and mother. Our foundation aims to support individuals of all ages in achieving their life goals. We seek to foster personal and professional growth, social advancement, mental health awareness, and collective prosperity by providing educational resources, mentorship programs, scholarships, and community initiatives. The foundation's mission is to empower communities in Simpson County, Mississippi, focusing on children and teens through education, mentorship, scholarships, grants, and community initiatives.
Empowerment - Scholarship - Community
Background
The Lillie Hardy Foundation exists to give continuity to Lillie Hardy's lifelong commitment to education and community service. Ms. Hardy, a transplant from another County, was born in 1947 and raised in a family that functioned like a unit, which was different from what she observed in Simpson County after moving there. Through her work, she realized the community needed to recognize the power within themselves rather than rely on external solutions to achieve their dreams and goals in life and the crucial role that equitable access to opportunities, education, and a strong community have in supporting underserved populations.
The Problem
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Mississippi has the largest proportion of people with “no schooling” at 13.1% of the total population.*
This means that 13.1% of Mississippi residents have not completed any formal education, including elementary, middle, and high school.
This is a concerning statistic, as education is a key factor in improving economic and social outcomes. The lack of education can lead to lower job opportunities, lower income, and poorer health outcomes. The work of the Lillie Hardy Foundation takes on added significance in the face of this statistic. Our commitment to empowering individuals through education, mentorship, scholarships, and community initiatives is a direct response to the educational challenges our state faces.
* Source: Census.gov (2022)
Our Pillars
Empowerment
We offer counseling, guidance, networking opportunities, and workshops on leadership, entrepreneurship, life skills, adult life, mental health, and more.
Scholarship
We offer after-school tutoring programs, study materials, academic workshops, career development opportunities, and scholarships for continued education and more.
Community
We engage in community initiatives that address systemic barriers and promote social and economic advancement, mental health awareness, financial literacy, community, and unity.
Meet our team.
Kenneth Hardy: Executive Director
Kenneth Hardy serves as the Executive Director of the Lillie Hardy Foundation, where he oversees the daily operations and spearheads the marketing efforts of the organization. With a dynamic background in logistics, customer service, and entrepreneurship, Kenneth brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his role.
Kenneth's journey with the Lillie Hardy Foundation began in August 2023, where his leadership is pivotal in driving the strategic vision, operational excellence, and overall impact of the foundation. His commitment to community service is evident in his hands-on approach to managing the foundation's programs and initiatives aimed at empowering underserved communities in Simpson County, MS.
Kenneth also demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit as the owner of Andee's, a store he successfully launched and managed for several years. His ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers and vendors, coupled with his knack for overseeing operations, has been instrumental in his current role.
A graduate of Full Sail University with a B.S. in Film Production, Kenneth is also proficient in a variety of technical and creative tools, including Adobe Creative Suite and social media platforms, which he leverages to enhance the foundation's outreach and engagement efforts.
Fluent in English with conversational Spanish skills, Kenneth is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the community. His diverse experience and unwavering commitment to service make him an invaluable asset to the Lillie Hardy Foundation.
Lillie Hardy: Board President
Lillie Hardy, the esteemed Board President of the Lillie Hardy Foundation, is a dedicated advocate for community empowerment and educational enrichment. With over three decades of experience in education and community service, Lillie brings a profound commitment to uplifting underserved populations in Simpson County, MS.
Lillie's career is marked by her extensive work within the Simpson County School System, where she served in multiple roles, including Social Worker, Teacher, Federal Program Coordinator, Personnel Director, Curriculum Director, and eventually District Assistant Superintendent of Education. Throughout her tenure, Lillie was instrumental in developing and implementing policies that enhanced educational outcomes and supported the holistic development of students. Her leadership extended beyond the classroom as she engaged in community organizing, working tirelessly to improve the quality of life through schools, churches, and social organizations.
Her academic background is as impressive as her professional one. Lillie holds a B.A. in Sociology and a B.S. in Social Science from Jackson State University, where she also earned two M.S. degrees—one in School Administration and another in Social Sciences. She is currently pursuing a Doctorate in School Administration, further exemplifying her dedication to continuous learning and leadership development.
Lillie’s influence is not confined to her professional endeavors. She has held numerous leadership roles within Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., serving as a State Executive Board Member and holding several regional leadership positions. Her involvement in professional organizations, such as the American Association of School Administrators and the National Association of Social Workers, highlights her commitment to excellence in education and social work.
As Board President of the Lillie Hardy Foundation, Lillie leverages her extensive experience to guide the foundation’s mission of empowering underserved communities through education, mentorship, and radical self-sufficiency. Her visionary leadership ensures that the foundation’s initiatives are impactful, sustainable, and aligned with the needs of the communities it serves.
Lillie's lifelong dedication to service, both professionally and personally, has made her an invaluable leader at the Lillie Hardy Foundation, where her passion for helping others continues to inspire and effect change.
Pamela Woodard: Board Secretary
Pamela Woodard is a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience in business education and computer science. As an ICT, Cyber Foundations, and Keystone Teacher at Simpson Central School, she excels in integrating technology into the classroom, preparing students with essential digital skills. Pamela is known for creating dynamic, inclusive learning environments and developing engaging lesson plans that inspire student achievement.
Her leadership roles, including serving on the school leadership team and advising the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), demonstrate her commitment to student success and career readiness. Pamela holds an Associate of Arts Degree in Business Education and a Bachelor of Science in Education and Psychology, along with multiple certifications in business and technology education.
As Board Secretary for the Lillie Hardy Foundation, Pamela leverages her organizational expertise and deep educational knowledge to support the foundation's mission of empowering underserved communities through education and mentorship.
Suzanne Keys: Board Treasurer
Suzanne Keys brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Board Treasurer for the Lillie Hardy Foundation. With a strong educational background, including a BA in Mathematics from St. Norbert College, an MA in Political Science from Columbia University, and an LLD from the University of Wisconsin, Suzanne has built a career rooted in service and legal expertise.
Her professional journey spans several decades, beginning with her work in the Volunteers In Service to America (VISTA) program, where she assisted recently released prisoners in the Bronx, New York, with housing and employment. She then transitioned to the field of education and legal services, working as a teacher and director in Harlem and later serving as a staff attorney in various legal firms and community outreach programs in Mississippi.
Since 2019, Suzanne has been serving as the permanent law clerk to Judge Deborah McDonald on the Mississippi Court of Appeals. Her deep commitment to community service is evident in her active involvement with the Mendenhall Bible Church and her consultancy with Son Solar, Inc., a nonprofit focused on alternative energy projects.
Suzanne’s extensive experience in law, community service, and financial oversight makes her an invaluable asset to the Lillie Hardy Foundation, where she plays a crucial role in managing the organization’s financial health and ensuring the fulfillment of its mission to empower underserved communities in Simpson County, MS.
Tommy Brumfield: Board Member
Tommy Brumfield is a dedicated educator and community leader with a deep commitment to fostering positive educational outcomes for all students. As a board member, Tommy brings his extensive experience in educational leadership to the Lillie Hardy Foundation, where his insights and expertise are invaluable in shaping programs that empower underserved communities.
Currently serving as the Principal of Mendenhall Elementary School, Tommy has a proven track record of leadership and innovation in the field of education. His experience includes significant roles as an Assistant Principal at both Magee Middle School and Byram Middle School, where he was instrumental in developing and implementing policies that promoted discipline, student achievement, and effective classroom management.
Tommy’s educational background is rooted in his strong belief that every child can learn in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Science Education and a Master of Science in Special Education from Jackson State University. Additionally, he earned an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Mississippi College and is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Education, with an anticipated graduation in December 2025.
Recognized for his contributions to education, Tommy was named Teacher of the Year at Forest Hill High School and later, Administrator of the Year for the Simpson County School District in 2024. His leadership, compassion, and commitment to student success make him a vital asset to the Lillie Hardy Foundation's mission to enhance educational opportunities in Simpson County.
Jeanette Martin: Board Member & Chairperson for the Rose Marie Camper Education Fund
Jeanette Martin is a seasoned healthcare professional with over 30 years of experience in nursing and patient care. She holds an Associate Degree in Nursing and is a Licensed Practical Nurse, with additional certifications in psychiatric and mental health nursing, domestic violence prevention, and HIV counseling. Jeanette's extensive career includes roles at Prime Care Nursing Agency, Mississippi State Hospital, and Boswell Regional Center, where she provided compassionate care, supervised medical staff, and supported patients through complex health challenges.
Her commitment to community service extends beyond healthcare. Jeanette is the Chairman of the Rose Marie Camper Family Education Fund, where she is dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for underserved families. As a board member of the Lillie Hardy Foundation, she brings her expertise in patient advocacy, community health, and organizational leadership to support the foundation's mission of empowering the Simpson County community through education and mentorship.
Jeanette's blend of healthcare experience and community leadership makes her an invaluable asset to both the Rose Marie Camper Family Education Fund and the Lillie Hardy Foundation, where she continues to champion initiatives that improve the lives of those in need.
Ready to support our work?
“We do the right thing because it is right. Not because it is easy or popular, but because
it is right.”
— Lillie Hardy
