The Sickle Cell Foundation of Tennessee (SCFT) is proud to announce Alexis Nichols Gorden, MBA, as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the organization. Gorden has demonstrated a commitment to advancing knowledge and care for sickle cell disease through active involvement in various research initiatives. Throughout her career, she has held significant roles in multiple institutions and projects, including serving as a Rare Disease Advisory Council Member since 2018 and serving as the Co-Principal Investigator for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Improving Lives of Sickle Cell Families initiative. Gorden has facilitated over 100 workshops and online seminars on health disparities, including a weekly webinar during the Covid-19 Pandemic, with world renowned Vanderbilt Medical Physicians and Registered Nurses. Additionally, she has contributed valuable insights through publications and presentations, including a peer-reviewed publication on engaging individuals with sickle cell disease and a presentation on navigating research partnerships involving patients with serious, acute, or medically complex conditions.

Gorden earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi and a MBA in Economics Forecasting and Statistics from the University of West Georgia.

Rosalyn Twillie, the previous interim President and CEO, served the foundation from July 2023 to March 2024, during which time she demonstrated exceptional leadership in guiding strategic and transformational efforts. Twillie’s experience in both the non-profit industry and business corporations greatly influenced the growth and impact of The Sickle Cell Foundation of Tennessee within the community. Her contributions have laid a strong foundation for Gorden to build upon, ensuring continuity and sustained progress in the foundation’s mission to support individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.