Who We Are

The Jonesboro Business Association is dedicated to empowering lives and securing futures by creating a community-driven economic inclusion model that gives youth the resources they need to pursue their dreams. We strive to open doors of opportunity for all, ensuring everyone has access to what they need regardless of circumstances.

Our Vision

To be the premier organization fostering innovation, collaboration, and opportunities that transform individuals and communities into thriving ecosystems of success.

Our Mission

To empower the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs by providing education, mentorship, and resources that inspire growth, resilience, and a lasting impact.

Henry Burrell

President & Founder

For more than 30 years, Henry Burrell has served in leadership roles within the Food and Beverage industry throughout the United States. As an accustomed strategist, he specializes in developing revitalizing market plans, creating restaurant openings, and streamlining operational processes. Throughout his tenure, his collaborative approach has effectively enabled meaningful partnerships between each level of engagement.

He is thrilled to now use those same skills to further benefit the community in which he resides. Through non-profit organizations, he is determined to diversify his inspirational talents with refined management techniques for the purpose of assisting board members with fostering sustainability. His core objectives remain focused on utilizing sound judgment and ambition to unify purposeful objectives that will ultimately lead to success!

Reginald Prunty

Treasurer

With a long career of service-based professional work and extended entrepreneurship, Reginald Prunty is uniquely qualified to serve in leadership for JBA and to aid our efforts of building up our community and the individuals that will build our future economy. He’s a United States Military Veteran, a former field technician with a total of 33 years in service management, a residential real estate developer, and current owner and operator of his restaurant, “Legends BBQ.”

When it comes to giving back to the community, there are few who’ve given as much effort in bringing people together and giving back than Reginald. And he will continue to play an integral role in growing our organization and increasing our impact on our community and the youth and young professionals that will shape it in the future.

Rikita Saunders

Board Member / Digital Strategy

Rikita Saunders is a skilled professional with a diverse background in athletics, academia, and technology. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, and currently residing in Brookland, Arkansas, she holds a B.S. in Recreation Administration from Jackson State University, an MBA from Louisiana State University, and an M.S. in User Experience from Arizona State University.

Rikita began her career in academia at Louisiana State University, supporting the football team’s academic needs. She now works as a Business Systems Analyst in the financial industry, where she focuses on process improvement and system error resolution. In her spare time, Rikita volunteers with BlackGirlsHack and runs her own small business, Esoteric Collection, creating custom tech accessories.

Ellie Stafford Smith

Social Media Marketing Consultant

Ellie Stafford Smith was born and raised here in Jonesboro, where she now lives with her husband Nick and her dog Remi. Ellie is the owner of “Enhanced By Ellie” – a Social Media Management and Website Design Company, she is the Head Dance Coach at Arkansas State University, and she is an On-Air Personality for 104.9 The Fox and Mix 106.3. She loves getting to serve this area that has shaped her into the person she is today, and is thankful to get to help promote the Jonesboro Business Association.

Alex Trufin

Business Owner, Retail Leader, and Community Advocate

As the owner of AllyRecruit LLC and with over 14 years of experience in retail management at Best Buy, Alex Trufin brings extensive expertise in managing teams, overseeing multi-million-dollar operations, and leading strategic initiatives. His strengths in human resources, including staffing, mentorship, and coaching, align with the mission of the Jonesboro Business Association (JBA).

Alex is actively involved in the Jonesboro community as Treasurer for the CHE board, a volunteer leader in his church, a Chamber of Commerce member, and a proud Rotarian. With a passion for fostering economic growth, youth development, and community engagement, he looks forward to driving meaningful impact with JBA.

Salma Abdel-Karim

Salma Abdel-Karim is an undergraduate student at Arkansas State University studying biology
and chemistry with hopes to attend medical school to become a physician. She has extensive
volunteer experience in healthcare settings, such as serving as a Patient Ambassador at the St.
Bernards Wound Clinic and Oncology Unit, reflecting her passion for community service. She
has a strong background in leadership, where she serves as the President of the Muslim
Student Association, helping to organize large-scale events and secure funding for student
initiatives. By joining the Jonesboro Business Association, Salma hopes to apply her experience
in community engagement and leadership to support youth advancement and help make an
impact in the Jonesboro community.

Who we are