Our Team
The people who are making a difference every day.
Megan Allen
Supports Coordinator
Urban AllianceMegan joined the Urban Alliance team in November 2018 as a Momentum Supports Coordinator. Megan was born and raised in the Kalamazoo community but ventured down to Kansas City where she received her undergraduate at Park University. Since graduating, she spent her career in the banking industry where her greatest joy with the job was building relationships with people. Her passion for people and the core of who they are led her to this line of work. Her belief is that there is hope in everyone’s story. She believes hope, compassion and empathy can transform lives.
Read moreWhen not working, you can find Megan spending time with her wonderful husband and three beautiful children. Megan loves traveling, being outdoors and trying new and exciting things.
Joe Brown
Senior Director of Operations
Urban AllianceJoe is a Kalamazoo native, and spent a career in advanced manufacturing and engineering. Joe enjoys implementing systems and creating structure to facilitate growth and to strengthen organizations. He says, “Working with Urban Alliance has been a life changing experience and I am blessed to be able to focus my efforts on impacting the community by supporting an incredible team. It is an honor to serve our friends in the community and I look forward to seeing continued transformations of lives and families.”
Read moreJoe is married with five children and two grandchildren. When not focusing on Urban Alliance he is an avid reader, artist, author and outdoor enthusiast.
Allison Brown
Executive Administrative Coordinator
Urban AllianceAllison Brown joined the Urban Alliance team in October of 2019 with a desire for a change and a passion for finding a career that has an impact on others. Her journey to Urban Alliance is unique as she herself is a Momentum graduate. After experiencing her rock bottom she says “Urban Alliance was put in my path and I was unsure of the reason, I quickly realized Urban Alliance was going to change my life and I know now, that was the purpose”.
Read moreAllison loves people, believes in multiple chances, and that no one should be defined by their worst mistake. She is a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo County and holds a B.A. in Finance from Western Michigan University. She brings with her 15 years of office & accounting experience. When not working, Allison enjoys spending time with her three beautiful children and her family.
Scott Goodwin
Director of Communications
Urban AllianceScott came to Urban Alliance in June 2018 as Volunteer Coordinator and Engagement Manager, having spent the better part of two decades working with non-profits and in education with students of all age groups. He is passionate about intentional community and building life affirming relationships, believing that ‘life is designed to be lived, together, in the service of others.’ Like all Urban Alliance staff, Scott strives to help individuals see that all people have value and, seeks to change systems that operate as though some people are more valuable than others.
Read moreScott is happily married and father to three active children. When not running back and forth between soccer games, track meets, dance recitals, and band concerts, he is likely to be found grilling dinner in his backyard, taking a stroll by the river, or hanging out at his favorite place, the local library.
Esteven Juarez
Associate Director of Outreach
Urban AllianceEsto’s journey to Urban Alliance is far different from everyone else’s, as he is a product of over 15 years of pursuit by our Outreach Initiative. During his teenage years, Esto founded and led a gang in the Edison Neighborhood, during this time he made many decisions which nearly landed him in prison for life. Esto shared this, “my life was a mess, the options at that time were life in prison or eventual death due to my choices. However, the Lord had a plan for my life and led me down a different path filled with light, life, and joy.”
Read moreEsto is now the Director of the Urban Outreach Initiative at Urban Alliance, this is what he has to say in regards to why he does this work. “I remember the times in my life where I was broken, lost and without direction. But, there was someone that continually showed up in my life, someone who loved and cared for me.” Esto believes that through his position he is now able to demonstrate that same love, care, and compassion, with the hopes that those he interacts with will find new life and transformation.
When he is not working, you can find Esto in fellowship with his family in friends whether that’s at the beach or in his back yard grilling out.
Jason Knight
Connections Coordinator
Urban AllianceJason Knight joined the Urban Alliance team in August 2019.
I was in the US Army for 4yrs. I served in Desert Storm as an infantryman. I spent 20 years in manufacturing as a machine operator, forklift operator, welder and a production supervisor. During this time I struggled with my addiction to alcohol and my mental illness. The birth of my oldest grandson was my aha moment and that is when I started pursuing a life of recovery. When I decided to start giving back Urban Alliance Momentum was the first place I volunteered. I later went on to become a Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach. I am married and have 4 amazing daughters and 2 grandsons. I love to BBQ and watch Michigan Football. You will find me in Ann Arbor in the fall taking in the football game.
Luke Kujacznski
Executive Director
Urban AllianceLuke Kujacznski came to Urban Alliance after successfully starting, building, running, and then selling a business in the construction industry. He originally started at Urban Alliance as a volunteer, and then became the second momentum director. When the prior executive director suffered a significant medical issue, he stepped up and led the organization through the crisis, first as interim director and then as the executive director. In the three subsequent years, he has led the organization from being supported by three part-time staff on a $450,000 annual budget, to having a $2,500,000 annual budget with 15 full-time staff in 2018.
Read moreLuke has a passion for justice and mercy. He loves second and third chances, because he has experience that grace for himself in the past. He believes strongly in the transformative power of relationships and works to ensure all members of this community have access to pathways of hope. He says, “During difficult times in my life I learned the value of relationship in communicating one’s value, and these relationships gave me hope for the future. I want others to have hope, to see the good in the world and in the eyes of those closest to them. I consider it an honor to play a small part in creating hope for those without hope.”
Luke was recently selected by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as being a “40 under 40” business leader who is making a significant impact in West Michigan. Kujacznski has a B.A. in management and leadership development on top of extensive for-profit business experience. When not working, Luke enjoys spending time with his beautiful family, reading thought provoking books, and fishing.
Jamie Lowry
Administrative Coordinator
Urban AllianceJamie has lived in Kalamazoo for most of her life. She is a graduate of Kalamazoo Valley Community College and had a career as a Respiratory Therapist prior to experiencing a life-changing medical issue. Jamie has always had a passion for bettering the lives of those around her. Since returning to the workforce, she has found that her heart lies in social justice and the non-profit sector and truly believes that every day you wake up breathing is going to be a good day. She brings positivity and laughter to everything that she does and believes that with a little bit of positive encouragement and support, anyone is able to make changes in their lives. “Everyone deserves to be valued, respected and given the opportunity to show you their best self.”
Read moreJamie enjoys spending time with her husband and children. She enjoys reading, crafting, traveling, camping, kayaking, tailgating, and backyard BBQs with friends and family. She is an avid sports fan with a love for the Chicago Cubs, Notre Dame football and the Chicago Bears.
Jamilah Parker
Programming Coordinator
Urban AllianceJamilah joined the Urban Alliance team in May of 2019 as a Classroom Coordinator. She was born and raised in Kalamazoo, graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School. Jamilah spent the past 8 years in a career banking related but she always knew her hearts passion was to be a resource in her community by being able to guide and help others come out of situations or circumstances that prevented them from being the best version of themselves. Jamilah takes pride in seeing individuals as human beings and not allowing their barriers to define who they are.
Read moreSince joining Urban Alliance Jamilah has been able to seamlessly build relationships and trust with not only her new work family, but current students, graduates and future students as well. Jamilah believes that an individual should be given a second chance at being the best version of themselves and Urban Alliance helps provide that by walking side by side with a person until we reach that finish line, together. She loves the open door policy that Urban Alliance provides as it gives her and her team the opportunity to serve their community in ways some would never imagine!
Jamilah has a son and daughter both in middle school who are the light of her life. When not working you can find them all walking around downtown, listening to music, watching movies or finding a new breakfast spot to try as breakfast is their all time favorite meal anytime of the day! Jamilah also enjoys traveling and opening herself and her children up to new experiences, environments and cultures.
Brian Parsons
Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives
Urban AllianceBrian Parsons is an excellent communicator and motivator with over 20 years of experience in classroom facilitation and program development, specializing is serving diverse people groups. Prior to coming to Urban Alliance, Parsons worked for the past 10 years assisting individuals returning to the community after incarceration. Most recently, he ran 3 prisoner reentry programs for Life Skills, Employment and Housing.
Read moreBrian has a passion to see people overcome their pasts, transform their lives and achieve their goals, something he has had to do himself. He says, “Momentum has given me the opportunity to create and run the program that working for the government never allowed me to do; to customize for each person’s unique needs and challenges. That is the thing that sets Urban Alliance apart; everything we do starts with and flow out of relationship.”
Jacob Pinney-Johnson
Programming Coordinator
Urban AllianceJacob Pinney-Johnson is a 4th- generation Kalamazoo resident. A recipient of the Kalamazoo Promise, he holds a B.A in Social Work with a Minor in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University. Jacob joined the Urban Alliance team in July of 2018 as Classroom Coordinator. He brings with him experience in racial equity, health & wellness, youth development, family support and social justice/advocacy work.
Read moreJacob has drive and dedication to being part of the success and upliftment of his community. Part of this drive comes from his parents and grandfather who instilled in him a drive for social justice and being a part of the change that he wants to see in the world.
In addition to having a passion for community empowerment, Jacob enjoys being a husband and father of two!
Chris Pompey
Director of Prevention
Urban AllianceGadson Chris Pompey joined the Urban Alliance team in April of 2018, bringing many years of non-profit and management experience. He was born and raised in the inner city of Baltimore, MD. Currently Chris is finishing his formal education through Purdue Global University enrolled in the Masters’ of Psychology with a concentration in Addictions. Chris understands the pit of addiction after overcoming his own. He attributes his freedom to his rededication to Christ 15 years ago. Read more
Growing up and seeing the devastation of what addiction does to a community has caused a burning desire to see others free. Once a part of the problem he is relentless to help others free from addiction. Gadson shares, “I feel helping others is a calling not a duty.”
When not working Gadson can be found spending time with his family, as he states it is his main priority. Gadson is married with four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren. Gadson also shares that his faith in Christ is the core of his existence.
Quinnetta Simmons
Employment Coach
Urban AllianceQuinnetta is a Three Rivers native and graduated from both Central Michigan and Western Michigan Universities with a focus in cultural anthropology. As a former Director of Human Resources, she brings a perfect blend of policy experience and people skills. “Q” as she affectionately goes by, spent most of her career in Higher Education. However she is no stranger to the non-profit world. She is gifted at developing relationships and cultivating one’s potential.
Read moreIn her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. She also enjoys being outside, gardening and sharing stories over a camp fire.
Janelle Williams
Associate Director of Programming
Urban AllianceJanelle joined Urban Alliance team in June 2017 as a Momentum Classroom Coordinator. Janelle is a certified life coach and sports coach and plans to use these acquired skills to help people become their best selves. She believes everyone has the ability to overcome their life circumstances and achieve their dreams and goals. Janelle says, ‘working at Urban Alliance gives me the freedom to put my passions to work and see people develop and grow into the men and women they desire to be.”
Read moreJanelle is a wife, mom, and aunt. She loves spending time with her family, being active, and seeing the latest movie whenever she can get a night out with her husband.
Luke Kujacznski
Executive Director
Urban AllianceLuke Kujacznski came to Urban Alliance after successfully starting, building, running, and then selling a business in the construction industry. He originally started at Urban Alliance as a volunteer, and then became the second momentum director. When the prior executive director suffered a significant medical issue, he stepped up and led the organization through the crisis, first as interim director and then as the executive director. In the three subsequent years, he has led the organization from being supported by three part-time staff on a $450,000 annual budget, to having a $2,500,000 annual budget with 15 full-time staff in 2018.
Read moreLuke has a passion for justice and mercy. He loves second and third chances, because he has experience that grace for himself in the past. He believes strongly in the transformative power of relationships and works to ensure all members of this community have access to pathways of hope. He says, “During difficult times in my life I learned the value of relationship in communicating one’s value, and these relationships gave me hope for the future. I want others to have hope, to see the good in the world and in the eyes of those closest to them. I consider it an honor to play a small part in creating hope for those without hope.”
Luke was recently selected by the Grand Rapids Business Journal as being a “40 under 40” business leader who is making a significant impact in West Michigan. Kujacznski has a B.A. in management and leadership development on top of extensive for-profit business experience. When not working, Luke enjoys spending time with his beautiful family, reading thought provoking books, and fishing.
Brian Parsons
Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives
Urban AllianceBrian Parsons is an excellent communicator and motivator with over 20 years of experience in classroom facilitation and program development, specializing is serving diverse people groups. Prior to coming to Urban Alliance, Parsons worked for the past 10 years assisting individuals returning to the community after incarceration. Most recently, he ran 3 prisoner reentry programs for Life Skills, Employment and Housing.
Read moreBrian has a passion to see people overcome their pasts, transform their lives and achieve their goals, something he has had to do himself. He says, “Momentum has given me the opportunity to create and run the program that working for the government never allowed me to do; to customize for each person’s unique needs and challenges. That is the thing that sets Urban Alliance apart; everything we do starts with and flow out of relationship.”
Joe Brown
Senior Director of Operations
Urban AllianceJoe is a Kalamazoo native, and spent a career in advanced manufacturing and engineering. Joe enjoys implementing systems and creating structure to facilitate growth and to strengthen organizations. He says, “Working with Urban Alliance has been a life changing experience and I am blessed to be able to focus my efforts on impacting the community by supporting an incredible team. It is an honor to serve our friends in the community and I look forward to seeing continued transformations of lives and families.”
Read moreJoe is married with five children and two grandchildren. When not focusing on Urban Alliance he is an avid reader, artist, author and outdoor enthusiast.
Chris Pompey
Director of Prevention
Urban AllianceGadson Chris Pompey joined the Urban Alliance team in April of 2018, bringing many years of non-profit and management experience. He was born and raised in the inner city of Baltimore, MD. Currently Chris is finishing his formal education through Purdue Global University enrolled in the Masters’ of Psychology with a concentration in Addictions. Chris understands the pit of addiction after overcoming his own. He attributes his freedom to his rededication to Christ 15 years ago. Read more
Growing up and seeing the devastation of what addiction does to a community has caused a burning desire to see others free. Once a part of the problem he is relentless to help others free from addiction. Gadson shares, “I feel helping others is a calling not a duty.”
When not working Gadson can be found spending time with his family, as he states it is his main priority. Gadson is married with four adult children and three beautiful grandchildren. Gadson also shares that his faith in Christ is the core of his existence.
Esteven Juarez
Associate Director of Outreach
Urban AllianceEsto’s journey to Urban Alliance is far different from everyone else’s, as he is a product of over 15 years of pursuit by our Outreach Initiative. During his teenage years, Esto founded and led a gang in the Edison Neighborhood, during this time he made many decisions which nearly landed him in prison for life. Esto shared this, “my life was a mess, the options at that time were life in prison or eventual death due to my choices. However, the Lord had a plan for my life and led me down a different path filled with light, life, and joy.”
Read moreEsto is now the Director of the Urban Outreach Initiative at Urban Alliance, this is what he has to say in regards to why he does this work. “I remember the times in my life where I was broken, lost and without direction. But, there was someone that continually showed up in my life, someone who loved and cared for me.” Esto believes that through his position he is now able to demonstrate that same love, care, and compassion, with the hopes that those he interacts with will find new life and transformation.
When he is not working, you can find Esto in fellowship with his family in friends whether that’s at the beach or in his back yard grilling out.
Scott Goodwin
Director of Communications
Urban AllianceScott came to Urban Alliance in June 2018 as Volunteer Coordinator and Engagement Manager, having spent the better part of two decades working with non-profits and in education with students of all age groups. He is passionate about intentional community and building life affirming relationships, believing that ‘life is designed to be lived, together, in the service of others.’ Like all Urban Alliance staff, Scott strives to help individuals see that all people have value and, seeks to change systems that operate as though some people are more valuable than others.
Read moreScott is happily married and father to three active children. When not running back and forth between soccer games, track meets, dance recitals, and band concerts, he is likely to be found grilling dinner in his backyard, taking a stroll by the river, or hanging out at his favorite place, the local library.
Quinnetta Simmons
Employment Coach
Urban AllianceQuinnetta is a Three Rivers native and graduated from both Central Michigan and Western Michigan Universities with a focus in cultural anthropology. As a former Director of Human Resources, she brings a perfect blend of policy experience and people skills. “Q” as she affectionately goes by, spent most of her career in Higher Education. However she is no stranger to the non-profit world. She is gifted at developing relationships and cultivating one’s potential.
Read moreIn her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. She also enjoys being outside, gardening and sharing stories over a camp fire.
Janelle Williams
Associate Director of Programming
Urban AllianceJanelle joined Urban Alliance team in June 2017 as a Momentum Classroom Coordinator. Janelle is a certified life coach and sports coach and plans to use these acquired skills to help people become their best selves. She believes everyone has the ability to overcome their life circumstances and achieve their dreams and goals. Janelle says, ‘working at Urban Alliance gives me the freedom to put my passions to work and see people develop and grow into the men and women they desire to be.”
Read moreJanelle is a wife, mom, and aunt. She loves spending time with her family, being active, and seeing the latest movie whenever she can get a night out with her husband.
Jamilah Parker
Programming Coordinator
Urban AllianceJamilah joined the Urban Alliance team in May of 2019 as a Classroom Coordinator. She was born and raised in Kalamazoo, graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School. Jamilah spent the past 8 years in a career banking related but she always knew her hearts passion was to be a resource in her community by being able to guide and help others come out of situations or circumstances that prevented them from being the best version of themselves. Jamilah takes pride in seeing individuals as human beings and not allowing their barriers to define who they are.
Read moreSince joining Urban Alliance Jamilah has been able to seamlessly build relationships and trust with not only her new work family, but current students, graduates and future students as well. Jamilah believes that an individual should be given a second chance at being the best version of themselves and Urban Alliance helps provide that by walking side by side with a person until we reach that finish line, together. She loves the open door policy that Urban Alliance provides as it gives her and her team the opportunity to serve their community in ways some would never imagine!
Jamilah has a son and daughter both in middle school who are the light of her life. When not working you can find them all walking around downtown, listening to music, watching movies or finding a new breakfast spot to try as breakfast is their all time favorite meal anytime of the day! Jamilah also enjoys traveling and opening herself and her children up to new experiences, environments and cultures.
Megan Allen
Supports Coordinator
Urban AllianceMegan joined the Urban Alliance team in November 2018 as a Momentum Supports Coordinator. Megan was born and raised in the Kalamazoo community but ventured down to Kansas City where she received her undergraduate at Park University. Since graduating, she spent her career in the banking industry where her greatest joy with the job was building relationships with people. Her passion for people and the core of who they are led her to this line of work. Her belief is that there is hope in everyone’s story. She believes hope, compassion and empathy can transform lives.
Read moreWhen not working, you can find Megan spending time with her wonderful husband and three beautiful children. Megan loves traveling, being outdoors and trying new and exciting things.
Allison Brown
Executive Administrative Coordinator
Urban AllianceAllison Brown joined the Urban Alliance team in October of 2019 with a desire for a change and a passion for finding a career that has an impact on others. Her journey to Urban Alliance is unique as she herself is a Momentum graduate. After experiencing her rock bottom she says “Urban Alliance was put in my path and I was unsure of the reason, I quickly realized Urban Alliance was going to change my life and I know now, that was the purpose”.
Read moreAllison loves people, believes in multiple chances, and that no one should be defined by their worst mistake. She is a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo County and holds a B.A. in Finance from Western Michigan University. She brings with her 15 years of office & accounting experience. When not working, Allison enjoys spending time with her three beautiful children and her family.
Jason Knight
Connections Coordinator
Urban AllianceJason Knight joined the Urban Alliance team in August 2019.
I was in the US Army for 4yrs. I served in Desert Storm as an infantryman. I spent 20 years in manufacturing as a machine operator, forklift operator, welder and a production supervisor. During this time I struggled with my addiction to alcohol and my mental illness. The birth of my oldest grandson was my aha moment and that is when I started pursuing a life of recovery. When I decided to start giving back Urban Alliance Momentum was the first place I volunteered. I later went on to become a Peer Support Specialist and Recovery Coach. I am married and have 4 amazing daughters and 2 grandsons. I love to BBQ and watch Michigan Football. You will find me in Ann Arbor in the fall taking in the football game.
Jacob Pinney-Johnson
Programming Coordinator
Urban AllianceJacob Pinney-Johnson is a 4th- generation Kalamazoo resident. A recipient of the Kalamazoo Promise, he holds a B.A in Social Work with a Minor in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University. Jacob joined the Urban Alliance team in July of 2018 as Classroom Coordinator. He brings with him experience in racial equity, health & wellness, youth development, family support and social justice/advocacy work.
Read moreJacob has drive and dedication to being part of the success and upliftment of his community. Part of this drive comes from his parents and grandfather who instilled in him a drive for social justice and being a part of the change that he wants to see in the world.
In addition to having a passion for community empowerment, Jacob enjoys being a husband and father of two!
Jamie Lowry
Administrative Coordinator
Urban AllianceJamie has lived in Kalamazoo for most of her life. She is a graduate of Kalamazoo Valley Community College and had a career as a Respiratory Therapist prior to experiencing a life-changing medical issue. Jamie has always had a passion for bettering the lives of those around her. Since returning to the workforce, she has found that her heart lies in social justice and the non-profit sector and truly believes that every day you wake up breathing is going to be a good day. She brings positivity and laughter to everything that she does and believes that with a little bit of positive encouragement and support, anyone is able to make changes in their lives. “Everyone deserves to be valued, respected and given the opportunity to show you their best self.”
Read moreJamie enjoys spending time with her husband and children. She enjoys reading, crafting, traveling, camping, kayaking, tailgating, and backyard BBQs with friends and family. She is an avid sports fan with a love for the Chicago Cubs, Notre Dame football and the Chicago Bears.
Our Board
Rev. Nathaniel Bull
President of Urban Apostolic Network
Urban AllianceTerra Bautista
Urban AllianceJJ Henn
Attorney at Miller Johnson
Urban AllianceTodd Kingma
General Counsel, Perrigo
Urban AllianceAlbert Little
Vice President-Business Development, Greenleaf Trust
Urban AllianceMatt Luckas
Vice President, Hanson Logistics
Urban AllianceDwayne Powell Jr.
VP of Community Investments, PNC Bank
Urban Alliance
