Annissa G. McCaskill, Executive Director of Forward Through Ferguson (FTF), is a dedicated advocate for racial equity and social justice. At Forward Through Ferguson, Annissa is responsible for supporting staff in its work of centering racial equity in systemic systems change, building organizational stability, and advancing strategic leadership of the organization. A dividend of HBCU Livingstone College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Annissa also holds a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degree from Indiana State University. At Indiana State, she shattered barriers by becoming the first African American elected to serve as President of the M.P.A. Student’s Association and the first African American nominated by the University for the prestigious Presidential Management Fellowship.
Originally from Earlington, Kentucky, Annissa has called the Greater St. Louis Area home since 1996, compiling over 25 years of experience in municipal government and the nonprofit sector. She has made significant contributions in municipalities such as Chesterfield, MO; University City, MO; and Belleville, IL, where she broke new ground as the first African American to hold various positions.
In the nonprofit sector, Annissa’s impactful journey includes her role at Better Family Life, Inc. from 2011, where she progressed from Division Manager to Vice-President of Workforce Development. Before joining FTF, Annissa served as Executive Director of Dutchtown South Community Corporation, updating their strategic plan, mission, and vision to center racial and socioeconomic equity in affordable housing and neighborhood empowerment. A self-described nerd, she actively serves as one of the Social Media and Virtual Worship coordinators for her church. Inspired by her parents, Annissa views her work as a commitment to service that advances the common good.
As an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Annissa takes immense pride in her roles as a sister, friend, advocate, and mother, all in the pursuit of fostering racial equity and positive change in her community and beyond.