HUNTSVILLE — Cited as a “visionary and creative thinker,” Pastor Jaymes Mooney will take over as chief executive officer of the Village of Promise next month. The Huntsville-based nonprofit said the appointment is effective May 1.
Mooney succeeds Dana Gillis, who has served as CEO since 2022 and will retire April 30.
A respected community leader and senior pastor of the historic Saint Bartley Church in Huntsville, Mooney brings a deep-rooted commitment to the Northwoods/Love Subdivision neighborhood, according to a news release from the organization.
Village of Promise is dedicated to eradicating generational poverty through education and community empowerment.
“I am deeply honored and excited to serve the Village of Promise in a more impactful capacity,” said Mooney. “Since 2011, the Village has made remarkable strides in advancing families out of generational poverty. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated staff to build on this legacy and continue our important mission. The families of the Village have entrusted us to walk alongside them in their journeys towards growth and flourishing.
“We are committed to stewarding that trust with compassion, excellence, and integrity.”
Mooney will continue in his role as senior pastor, with additional support that enables him to focus on leading the Village of Promise as CEO. His dual roles reflect a seamless extension of his calling to serve the community and deepen impact, the news release said.
“Jaymes is a seasoned leader with a true heart and passion for the mission of Village of Promise and for the families that we serve,” said Jane Daniel, chair of the Board of Directors. “He is known as a visionary and creative thinker, a relationship builder, and a master problem solver. He brings a unique ability to lead decisively but always with kindness, empathy, and humility.
“In short, he embodies the values of the Village of Promise, and we’re thrilled to welcome him as our CEO.”
Under Gillis, VoP has experienced significant growth, stronger internal systems, and expanded partnerships citywide, the organization said.
“Leading Village of Promise has been the honor of my career. Jaymes’ deep understanding of our mission and his tireless commitment to Huntsville families make him the ideal person to continue our momentum,” Gillis said. “I look forward to supporting his vision as a volunteer and advocate.”
As a founding force behind The Bartley Bridge, a nonprofit focused on education, exposure, and entrepreneurship, and as a mentor in local schools, Mooney’s work has always intersected with the mission of VoP. His appointment signals a bold step forward in advancing educational outcomes and multi-generational impact across the region.
“The families of the Village have entrusted us to walk alongside them in their journeys towards growth and flourishing,” Mooney said. “We are committed to stewarding that trust with compassion, excellence, and integrity.”
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