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Leadership

Meet the leaders guiding BBN’s mission and community impact across Minnesota.

Our Leadership Approach

Black Business Network is led by a community-centered board with lived experience as Black business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals. We prioritize leadership that reflects the communities we serve, while remaining open to individuals with strong experience in nonprofit governance, economic development, and board leadership.

Board in Action

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Meet the BBN Board

David Frazier

President

David Frazier is a community leader and advocate in Saint Paul and the owner of Just Imagine and FlyAzz Frenchies. Named Salvation Army Metro’s Volunteer of the Year, he brings a strong focus on economic empowerment and service to Black-owned businesses across Minnesota.

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Kendra Lofton

Vice President

Kendra Lofton is the founder of WRLD Class Cleaning LLC and Kendra’s Clubhouse. She is deeply committed to community engagement and mentoring Black entrepreneurs, helping uplift and guide business owners through leadership and connection.

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Lynette Harris

Treasurer

Lynette Harris brings experience in community-based initiatives and nonprofit service, including her work with Moms Food Shelf and District 5. As Treasurer, she supports BBN’s financial stewardship and long-term sustainability.

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Yolanda Davis

Secretary

Yolanda Davis is an advocate and community leader with experience in outreach, mediation, and governance support across Minnesota. She is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and effective board practices, helping strengthen organizational accountability and community-centered leadership at BBN.

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Coa Murrell

Director of Fundraising & Partnerships

Coa Murrell is the owner of Care4All and holds a Bachelor’s in Healthcare Administration. She leads fundraising and financial strategy for BBN, supporting entrepreneurs through structured planning, resource alignment, and accountability.

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Open Board Seats

Director of Marketing & Public Relations

  • Develops and oversees marketing strategy and campaigns

  • Manages public relations (press releases, media outreach)

  • Oversees social media presence and content alignment

Director of Member Engagement & Programs

  • Engages members to support active participation

  • Plans and coordinates workshops and events

  • Collects feedback to improve programs and services

Governance Committee Chair

  • Ensures adherence to board policies and procedures

  • Leads annual review of policies and procedures

  • Supports governance best practices and compliance

Audit Committee Chair

  • Oversees internal and external audits

  • Ensures financial integrity and compliance standards

  • Provides audit reports and recommends improvements

Volunteer & Staff Coordinator

  • Manages onboarding for volunteers and staff

  • Provides training and orientation

  • Liaison between board and volunteers/staff

Board Service Requirements

  • Term Length: 2 years

  • Term Dates: May 1 – April 30

  • Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month at 12:00 PM (typically 1 hour)

  • Format: Hybrid/rotating (odd months virtual, even months in person)

  • In-Person Location: 925 Payne Ave E, Suite B2, Saint Paul, MN 55130

  • Participation Goal: Strong attendance and preparation (current average ~80%)

  • Board members serve on at least one committee

  • Standing committees include:

    • Executive Committee (officer group + one additional board member)

    • Governance Committee

    • Audit & Finance Committee

  • Committees meet as needed, often in advance of full board meetings

  • Board members may also support functional roles (ex: marketing, member engagement, volunteer coordination)

  • BBN does not currently require a give/get minimum

  • Board members are expected to support fundraising through non-monetary efforts such as:

    • Sharing campaigns and announcements in personal/professional networks

    • Inviting contacts to events and programs

    • Helping build relationships with partners, sponsors, and funders

    • Serving as ambassadors for BBN in the community

  • Looking ahead: BBN anticipates a modest annual give/get (~$400/year) in the next 2–3 years (personal giving, funds raised, or both)

  • Board nominations are accepted on a rolling basis based on strategic needs

  • Candidates are vetted through conversations for mission alignment, capacity, and relevant skills

  • New members complete a structured onboarding (board portal + guide + checklist)

  • Includes a 120-day onboarding & engagement period with check-ins

  • Continued service is confirmed by mutual agreement after the onboarding period

Board priorities over the next  1–2 years

  • Strengthen sustainability through diversified fundraising and financial oversight

  • Support the shift toward structured, repeatable programs (not only events)

  • Expand board expertise in governance, systems, and strategic growth

  • Ensure programs remain aligned with BBN’s mission supporting Black-owned businesses across Minnesota

Skills we’re seeking

  • High need: Accounting/Finance, Legal, Nonprofit Governance, Fundraising, Strategic Planning

  • Moderate need: Communications/PR, HR, Operations, IT, Advocacy, Nonprofit Admin/Management

Ready to Get Involved?

Email us your role of interest and your resume. We’ll follow up with next steps and schedule a conversation.

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