Board of Trustees

Who We Are

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

The Board of Trustees of The Active Women is a dedicated group of leaders, advocates, and community builders who bring wisdom, experience, and heart to the organization’s mission. Representing a wide range of professional backgrounds—including education, ministry, healthcare, entrepreneurship, youth advocacy, military service, and community outreach—the trustees work collectively to strengthen programs, guide organizational growth, and ensure that The Active Women remains a powerful force for empowerment and positive change.

As stewards of the organization’s vision, the Board provides oversight, strategic direction, and hands‑on support for initiatives that uplift women, families, and communities across Scotland County and surrounding rural areas. Each trustee contributes unique expertise and lived experience, helping shape programs that address real needs while promoting wellness, leadership, confidence, and connection.

Beyond their formal roles, the trustees are active community members who serve through faith, mentorship, volunteerism, and advocacy. Their commitment extends beyond board meetings—they show up in classrooms, churches, youth programs, outreach events, and local partnerships to ensure The Active Women’s impact is felt where it matters most.

Board Chair

Annie Blue

Annie Blue is a lifelong resident of Scotland County and a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Annie holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Management. She faithfully served her community through a long career with the Scotland County Department of Social Services, retiring in 2022.

For over 35 years, Annie has been an active member of Solid Rock Baptist Church, where she serves as a deaconess, usher, and member of the Education Committee. Her commitment to service extends throughout Scotland County as a member of several organizations, including Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Alpha Phi Zeta Chapter), the National Association of University Women – Laurinburg Branch, Spirit of Youth, and the Scottish Pilot Club. She also volunteers with Meals on Wheels and Project Inasmuch.

In her spare time, Annie enjoys reading, quilting, word search puzzles, and spending cherished time with her family.

Favorite Scripture:
“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” — Psalm 103:1

Favorite Quote:
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Vice Chair

Lakesha Washington

Mrs. Washington is an educator, autism advocate, and dedicated community leader committed to uplifting children and families.

As the founder of Autism Tools & Strategies Collective, she works to expand inclusive opportunities, strengthen support networks, and empower others through education, advocacy, and service.

As a member of The Active Women Board of Trustees, Lakesha is honored to help advance the organization’s mission and contribute to meaningful, community‑centered impact.

Secretary

Khyana Bennett

Khyana is a proud graduate of Scotland High School, Class of 2014, and carries herself with elegance, grace, and a strong sense of purpose in every area of her life. In 2020, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Fayetteville State University, demonstrating her commitment to learning and service.

Inspired by her passion for helping others and expanding her impact in healthcare, she later continued her education at Richmond Community College to pursue nursing. Along the way, she achieved her Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credential, reflecting her dedication to professional growth and excellence in patient care.

Driven, compassionate, and purpose‑centered, Khyana continues to build on her education and experience as she strives to make a meaningful difference in the healthcare field. She exemplifies integrity, empathy, and unwavering commitment in all she does.

Treasurer

Kendra Pegues

A proud Scotland County native and dedicated youth advocate, Kendra Lynn McLaughlin Pegues is the daughter of Daisy McLaughlin and the late John McLaughlin.

She is a graduate of Scotland High School, Class of 1990, and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in History from St. Andrews University. Driven by her passion for supporting young people, she later completed her Master’s degree in School Counseling from Capella University.

Kendra serves as a School Counselor at Scotland High School, where she is known for her compassion, steady guidance, and unwavering commitment to helping students navigate life’s challenges.

Beyond her professional role, Kendra enjoys spending time with her family and staying rooted in her faith. She is an active member of Solid Rock Baptist Church, where she supports youth-centered initiatives and community outreach.

Event & Program Coordinator

Bathsheba McNair

Bio Coming

Youth Advocate

Tanesha Bright

Tanesha Bright is a motivational speaker, teen and young women activist, entrepreneur, and devoted follower of Christ. A gifted hairstylist since her early teens, she has used her talent to inspire confidence and creativity in young women.

She is also the owner of a successful cleaning business founded in 2019 and has served as a behavior interventionist since 2016, supporting youth through emotional, academic, and personal challenges.

Tanesha’s life and work reflect her commitment to empowerment, faith, and transformation. She boldly shares her journey — including her personal shortcomings and the long-term results God provided through prayer, obedience, and fasting — to encourage others to rise above adversity. As a headliner speaker for The Active Women, she brings authenticity, wisdom, and a powerful message of hope to every audience she touches.

Hospitality Coordinator

Linda McClennahan

Mrs. Linda McClennahan is a proud Scotland County native, devoted community supporter, and longtime member of Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. She serves at South Johnson Elementary School, where her kindness, steady presence, and commitment to children make her a trusted figure among students, families, and staff.

A passionate advocate for women, Mrs. McClennahan believes in uplifting others through encouragement, service, and genuine connection. She brings a nurturing spirit to every space she enters, offering wisdom, support, and a listening ear to those who need it most.

Outside of her professional and community roles, she enjoys sewing, gardening, and creating things that bring beauty and comfort to others. Her love for nature, creativity, and hands‑on work reflects her grounded personality and her heart for serving with joy.

As a member of The Active Women Board of Trustees, she is honored to help advance the organization’s mission and contribute to meaningful impact across Scotland County.

Community Engagement Chair

Sallie Ledbetter

Sallie Miles‑Ledbetter is a retired Human Resources, Payroll, and Administration professional who faithfully served the South Carolina Department of Mental Health at the Tri‑County Community Mental Health Center until her retirement in October 2015. A woman of deep faith, strong family values, and unwavering commitment to service, she is devoted to uplifting her community through leadership, volunteerism, and ministry.

She is an active member of The Historic Shiloh Baptist Church in Bennettsville under the leadership of Pastor Dr. Coley Mearite. At Shiloh, Sallie serves faithfully as Pulpit Aide and contributes her time and talents to the Scholarship, Usher, and Missionary Ministries. Two scriptures that continue to guide her life are Psalm 23 and Psalm 91.

Sallie’s dedication to community extends far beyond the church walls. She currently serves on the Executive Board for The Community Kitchen in Bennettsville and has been a longtime member of the National Association of University Women (NAUW), Laurinburg Branch—previously as Treasurer and now as Correspondence Clerk. She is also a member of the Eastside School Preservation Alumni Association (ESPAA) and volunteers with Girl Scout Troop #905.

Hospitality Chair

Carlston Gould

Apostle Carlston Gould is the Apostle and spiritual leader of Greater Bethesda Ministry, where he is known for his powerful teaching, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through faith. A proud retired military veteran, Apostle Gould honorably served as a Senior Supply Sergeant in the United States Army, demonstrating excellence, discipline, and dedication throughout his years of service.

Deeply committed to youth and education, Apostle Gould has spent decades advocating for young people in rural counties, ensuring they have access to guidance, resources, and opportunities that support their growth. His previous work with the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council reflects his passion for mentorship, intervention, and helping youth build positive futures.

Apostle Gould is widely respected for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His leadership blends wisdom, humility, and a heart for service. Whether he is ministering, mentoring, or advocating, he remains focused on empowering others to rise above challenges and walk boldly in purpose.

Correspondent Secretary

Elizabeth Anderson

Elizabeth Anderson is a lifelong resident of Laurinburg, NC. She was married to the late Robert Anderson.

Elizabeth graduated from I. Ellis Johnson High School in 1966, Durham Business College in 1969, and earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Carolina Bible College in 2004.

She worked 22 years in Payroll and Accounts Payable at Unilever HPC (Fabergé), later served 13 years at East Coast Umbrella, and currently is the Town Clerk of Gibson, NC.

Called to preach in 2001 and ordained in 2005, Elizabeth serves as an Associate Minister at Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Her service includes Outreach Missions, Jail & Prison Ministry, Anderson’s Angelic Ministries, and leadership roles within Scotland County’s Ministerial and Missionary organizations.

She has completed mission work in Israel and South Africa and founded the Armstrong Family Prayer Line in 2020. Her greatest mission is leading souls to Christ, confident that her name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Board of Trustees

Together, the Board stands as a foundation of integrity, service, and purpose, guiding The Active Women with compassion, accountability, and a shared belief in the transformative power of community.