Leadership

Ian Straughter

Executive Vice President, Chief Programs Officer

As Chief Program Officer, Ian drives the creation of high quality, consistent, and high-growth targeted programs and workforce development models that are focused on economic mobility.

Prior to joining BSRC, Ian served as Principal at Karp Strategies where he led key initiatives fostering workforce development, economic growth, and resilient communities. He also served as Assistant Vice President of Workforce Development Partnerships at the NYC Economic Development Corporation and was the founding Business Development Director for the NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities’ flagship employment program.

Ian holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with minors in Philosophy and Business Economics from Sacred Heart University and a master’s degree in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University.  He also serves as an adjunct instructor for employment planning and policy at Hunter College’s Master of Urban Planning Program.

Takisia Whites

Executive Vice President, Economic Initiatives & Real Estate Development

Takisia L. Whites joined Restoration in 2023 to lead and oversee initiatives related to small, minority and women owned business throughout Central Brooklyn through financial inclusion, technical assistance, network expansion and capital access.

With 20 years of experience working with public and private sector stakeholders to provide affordable housing and economic development solutions. She began her career as a land-use planner and housing specialist for the Bronx Borough President’s Office. Before joining New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), Ms. White was President of Carver Community Development Corporation at Carver Federal Savings Bank Inc., where she managed more than $250 million New Markets Tax Credit portfolio of transformative development projects in the New York City area.

Takisia has a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Hampton University and a Master of Science degree in urban policy analysis and management from The New School’s Milano School.

Renée Jenkins

Executive Vice President, Chief Advancement Officer

Renée Jenkins joined Restoration in July 2021, providing strategic guidance for all Restoration’s fundraising, including managing the development, communications and marketing department, and providing strategic direction and focus to Restoration’s CEO and Board. 

Ms. Jenkins has over two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector and recently served as Vice President of Partnership and Advancement at the National Urban League. 

Ms. Jenkins received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Morgan State University and participated in the highly competitive American Express Leadership Academy, a leadership development program for emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector.

Shadawn Smith

Executive Vice President, Arts & Culture and Executive Director, Billie Holiday Theatre

Shadawn has had a stellar career in New York City’s government and non-profit sectors due to her success as a mediator and advocate. She worked for the NYC Department of City Planning, New York City Council, The Met Museum, and the NYC Tourism + Conventions (formerly NYC & Company).

In 2023, she accepted the dual role of ED of The Billie Holiday Theatre and EVP of Arts & Culture for Bed-Stuy Restoration Corporation. She serves the community in various leadership roles. She graduated from SCSU, Virginia Tech, and Columbia University’s SIPA. Her
favorite role in life is “Auntie.”