Bea Forniss serves as a Community Specialist for GMC. Her previous experience as the Division Chief of the Community and Economic Development Division at the Department of Economic and Community Affairs for the State of Alabama makes her well suited for the responsibilities of assisting the clients with all aspects of a project from funding through construction. In her previous position, Bea supervised the Appalachian Regional Commission, Community Development Block Grant Programs, Community Services Block Grant Program, Delta Regional Authority, Minority Business Program, Recreation and Conservation, and provided technical assistance for Community and Economic Development projects in distressed areas. Her insight into the planning and funding of each project is invaluable to both client's and her GMC team.

Bea is a member of several professional and community organizations. Some of these include: Alabama State Employees Association, Civil Justice Foundation, the Volunteer and Information Board, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Leadership Montgomery, Alabama State University’s Foundation, and the Montgomery Area United Way Board of Directors, just to name a few. She has won recognition with economic development components for the State of Alabama and has received numerous awards.

Bea will lead a discussion on how to be seen in a male-dominated industry and how to get the most out of your membership in NAWIC and any other association.