Momentum Leaders is proud to announce the inaugural Upward class for North Alabama. Among the distinguished participants is Amanda Hicks, Bank Independent Vice President Sales Officer for Madison County, who joins the group of trailblazing professionals committed to empowering women leaders across Alabama and beyond.
“We’re thrilled to see Amanda recognized as part of the first North Alabama Upward class,” said Tim Singleton, Eastern Region President at Bank Independent “Her leadership and passion make a difference every day, and we’re excited to see her continue to grow and inspire through this amazing program.”
The Upward program is designed specifically for emerging women leaders, equipping them with the skills, tools, and network necessary to excel in their careers and communities. With its proven success in other regions, Momentum Leaders is thrilled to bring this transformative experience to North Alabama.
The inaugural Upward class consists of a diverse group of professionals representing various industries, including technology, healthcare, education, manufacturing, and non-profit organizations. These participants were selected through a competitive application process, highlighting their potential and commitment to leadership excellence.
Over the next nine months, the participants will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that includes leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and networking events. The program cultivates confidence, fosters collaboration, and drives positive change within their workplaces and communities.
“We are excited to bring the Upward program to North Alabama and to support the incredible talent and ambition of women leaders in this region,” said Amy Gandy, Momentum’s Director of Programs for North Alabama. “The Upward program is not just about professional skills; it combines deep exploration of personal experiences, values, and strengths to create alignment with professional goals and aspirations. The result is a ripple effect of leadership and innovation that will benefit organizations and communities.”
The North Alabama Upward program is made possible through the support of local sponsors and partners who share Momentum Leaders’ commitment to advancing women in leadership. These include Huntsville Hospital, Vulcan Materials, Industrial Properties of the South, the Lucille and Bruce Lambert Foundation, Turner Construction, and Warren Averett. Their support reflects the region’s dedication to fostering inclusive growth and empowering the next generation of leaders.
The following participants make up the 2025 Upward Class 1:
Ali Breland, Senior Property Manager, Colliers International
Abigail Christopher, Project Engineer, Schoel
Bhagyesha Darji, Commercial Real Estate Agent, NAI Chase
Megan Dye, Client Service Associate, Longview Financial Advisors
Sarah Katherine Edwards, Cyber Security Consultant, Deloitte
Elizabeth Feick, Assistant Vice President, Commercial Banking Officer, ServisFirst Bank
Erica Gattis, Manager of Annual Giving & Major Events, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Sarah Hammond, Software Engineer, Torch Technologies
Amanda Hicks, VP Sales Officer, Bank Independent
Alisha Holman, Program Coordinator & Event Curator, United Women of Color
Danielle Jordan, Seeking New Opportunities
Sallie Keene Denton, Marketing Specialist, Wilson Lumber
Alison Kniepkamp, Team Member Relations Specialist, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing
Anna Manning, Director of Events and Volunteers, Huntsville Hospital Foundation
Anna Mitchell, Landscape Architect, Schoel
Larissa Reich, Procurement Manager, Blue Halo
Amy Roark, Team Lead Contracting Officer, Missile Defense Agency
Elizabeth Salgado, Business Manager of Operations, Huntsville Hospital Heart Center
Katelyn Sides Baker, Program Director, Leadership Greater Huntsville
Shelby Smith, Senior Property Manager, COPT Defense Properties
Whitney Swinney, Real Estate Partnerships Lead, Google Fiber
Alex Williams, Tax Supervisor, Warren Averett, LLC
About Bank Independent
Since 1947, Bank Independent has taken pride in serving the customers who count on us to be there for them when they need us most. With 33 traditional Sales Offices across North Alabama, an on-campus Deshler Tiger Branch, and the Digital Sales Office, we’re committed to providing the best service, designing the most desired products, and creating an overall excellent experience for each and every customer. As a local community bank, we believe in building relationships that run deep and last. All our team members reside in our local communities and believe in giving back through volunteering. To become part of a bank that makes a positive difference in people’s lives, visit us at bibank.com.
About Momentum
Momentum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing women leaders across Alabama. Through intensive, curriculum-based leadership training, mentoring, and networking, Momentum builds the capabilities of women at all career stages—from early professionals to senior executives. For more information on Momentum’s programs, events, and mission, visit www.MomentumLeaders.org.
