Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorean Mays.
Hi Lorean, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey is one defined by purpose, compassion, and the power of using one’s voice to uplift others. Growing up with a strong sense of community and a deep concern for the well-being of others, she learned early on that true leadership begins with service. Being bullied from Elementary through middle school impacted my self-esteem at an early age.
Her path began in the nonprofit and public health sectors as a volunteer. I discovered a passion for connecting people, resources, and education to address critical health disparities—especially those affecting African American communities. I quickly realized that awareness and access could change lives, particularly in areas like heart disease, cancer, sickle cell disease, blood donation, and health equity.
As I’ve advanced in my career, I’ve taken on leadership roles that allowed me to merge my skills in community engagement, program development, and advocacy. My ability to build relationships across sectors—healthcare organizations, schools, churches, and civic groups has made me a trusted bridge between institutions and the communities they serve.
Today, as the African American and Sickle Cell Initiative Manager at Blood Assurance, I lead efforts to educate and empower communities to understand the importance of blood donation and its life-saving impact for patients living with sickle cell disease. My work has helped increase awareness, strengthen partnerships with HBCUs and faith-based organizations, and bring representation to a cause that deeply impacts the Black community.
Beyond my professional role, I continue to serve as a mentor, advocate, and speaker, inspiring others—especially young women—to lead with empathy, purpose, and resilience. My story reflects not only personal success but also a deep commitment to creating lasting change through education, advocacy, and community connection.
What drives me most is simple yet powerful: the belief that every person can make a difference when they lead with heart.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Many struggles have risen over the years. From being bullied, lack of resources for education, job loss, depression, and simply feeling less than. However, through my faith in God and the support of those who have never left my side, I have been able to rise and reign.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a respected community advocate, development professional, and public health leader who specializes in building partnerships that advance health equity, education, and social impact across diverse communities.
As the African American and Sickle Cell Initiative Manager for Blood Assurance, I lead strategic efforts to increase blood donation awareness and participation within African American communities, focusing especially on sickle cell disease education, donor engagement, and community trust-building. I work with churches, HBCUs, civic organizations, and local leaders to address health disparities through culturally relevant outreach and storytelling.
I Specializes in:
•Community Engagement & Health Equity: Building authentic relationships with communities to improve access, representation, and participation in public health initiatives.
•Program & Partnership Development: Creating and managing initiatives that connect nonprofit, healthcare, and faith-based organizations for collective impact.
•Advocacy & Education: Raising awareness of the importance of blood donation, particularly for patients living with sickle cell disease, and breaking barriers through representation and education.
I am most recognized for her transformational work in bridging the gap between healthcare systems and African American communities. My leadership has led to measurable growth in blood donor participation and awareness around sickle cell disease in Tennessee and surrounding regions.
I’m also known for being the first African American woman to be a multi Miss/Ms titleholder in Tennessee (2005-present). Also, my ability to turn outreach into empowerment—creating safe spaces for conversations about health, legacy, and community leadership.
I am most proud of seeing the impact of my work in real lives—from families affected by sickle cell disease finding hope through donors, to young people learning the power of advocacy. I take pride in representing and uplifting my community, ensuring that African American voices are not just included but centered in health and social progress.
What sets me apart is my heart-centered leadership and authenticity. I don’t just build programs, I build trust. My approach is rooted in cultural understanding, lived experience, and a genuine commitment to improving lives.
I bring together data and empathy, policy and people, always focusing on sustainable impact through connection.
My ability to blend strategic leadership with personal passion has made me a powerful force for change in public health advocacy and community development.
What are your plans for the future?
I will be stepping in as the new director of the Miss Chattanooga Volunteer Pageant. I elated to continue working with in Pageantry and build on the foundation of Tennessee as the “Volunteer State”.
