The newly appointed board members include:

• Chair: Raymond Lee, City Administrator, Portland, Oregon
• Vice Chair: Danielle Mahoney, Assistant City Manager, Novi, Michigan 
• Heidi Behrends Cerniwey, City Manager, Ellensburg, Washington 
• Jonathan Lewis, County Administrator, Sarasota County, Florida 
• Lori Luther, City Manager, Overland Park, Kansas 
• Tyler Marr, Assistant City Manager, Fort Collins, Colorado 
• Matt Mueller, Town Manager, Little Elm, Texas 
• Mike Sable, City Manager, Maplewood, Minnesota 
• Darin Atteberry, CEO, Strategic Government Resources (Ex-Officio) 
• Michael Wilkes, President/CEO, AFI (Ex-Officio)

These leaders bring a wide range of experience and perspectives that reflect the diversity and complexity of communities served by local governments today. Their collective expertise will help guide AFI’s continued efforts to support innovation, leadership, and organizational excellence across the public sector.

Board Chair, Raymond Lee said, “I am honored to serve as Chair of the Alliance for Innovation Board of Directors at such an important time for local government. Communities are asking more of their public institutions than ever before, and AFI plays a critical role in helping leaders share ideas, strengthen partnerships, and deliver meaningful results. I am optimistic about the future because innovation in government is ultimately about people, how we serve residents, support employees, and build stronger communities. I look forward to working alongside an exceptional Board and leadership team as we build on AFI’s strong legacy and help shape the future of local government excellence.”

Board members selected their initial terms during this meeting for one, two or three-year terms. This structure supports both continuity and the introduction of fresh perspectives over time.

AFI’s Board of Directors plays a critical role in advancing the organization’s vision to become the leading hub and trusted source of local government innovation and idea sharing that help communities thrive. Through its mission, AFI equips those at the forefront of local governance with the capacity to anticipate change, adapt to emerging challenges, and build thriving communities. 

Vice Chair, Danielle Mahoney, Assistant City Manager of Novi, MI said, "I’m honored to serve as Vice Chair of the Alliance for Innovation and alongside such a strong group of board members. I'm especially energized by this moment for AFI. We have a real opportunity to build on a strong foundation while actively reimagining and revitalizing the organization for its next chapter. Now more than ever, innovation at the local level matters. The challenges facing our communities require us to be agile, collaborative, and willing to think differently about how we serve. That kind of innovation happens when we learn from one another, share ideas openly, and lead with a team-first mindset. I’ve always believed the strongest organizations operate as one team - rooted in trust, driven by curiosity, and united by a shared commitment to continuously evolve in how we serve our communities. AFI plays a critical role in fostering that mindset across local government. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this work and excited for what’s ahead."

Guided by its core values of trust building, innovation, courage, collaboration, foresight, excellence, and equity, the Board will help shape strategic priorities and ensure AFI continues to serve as a trusted partner for local governments nationwide.

For more information about the Alliance for Innovation and its Board of Directors, visit AFI Board of Directors.