Meet the Members

Nyia McGee-Johnson, Chair: My commitment is to help our community through intentional actions and programming aimed at supporting women, youth and our community; but that is just one aspect of who I am. My name is Nyia McGhee – Johnson, mother of two (Paige & AJ), wife to Alex Johnson, and Non-Profit CEO of A Made-Up Mind Incorporated. My work consists of Real Estate, Project/Property Management and Change Management. I am currently enrolled in school to further my education by obtaining my MBA – with a concentration in Real Estate Development and IT. I aim to create more affordable housing and ensure technology is readily available for underrepresented populations. I enjoy learning new things and enriching others’ lives. I also enjoy family time with my loved ones going to the movies, cookouts, tropical vacations, exercising, and hosting dinner parties.

As I serve on this committee representing the vibrant community in District III, I hope to be an effective, active participant in implementing the change I want to see for our those that need help the most. I leave you with this quote; “Let the women of a country be made virtuous and intelligent, and the men will certainly be the same.  The proper education of a man decides the welfare of an individual; but educate a woman, and the interests of a whole family (community) are secured”.

Anitra Hart, Vice Chair: is a native of Harnett County and graduated from Western Harnett High School. I am married, have two adult children, and have resided in Harnett County since 2007. I am employed with Harnett County as a Workforce Development Specialist since 2011. My education background consist of a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a Master’s Degree in Human Services: Marriage and Family Counseling.

I have been working with youth and women in Harnett County for over 12 years, and love showing them how to build the necessary skills and attributes needed for them to strive in this society. I am also continuously involved in community service projects in Harnett County to give back to my community. I love spending time with family, traveling and watching movies. The district I represent is District 2 and decided to join the Harnett County Commission on Women and Youth, to be a voice and provide much needed resources to women and youth of Harnett County.

During my term on the Harnett County Commission on Women and Youth, I look forward to working with my committee members on developing programs, providing resources, and advocating for the women and youth of Harnett County.

Rose Teniente, Secretary: has served on the Harnett County Commission for Women and Youth since 2020. I am also the vice-chair of the Harnett County Juvenile Crime Prevention Council, and I'm passionate about racial and gender equity. I have worked in the field of social/human services for nine years in state and local government, and most recently human services consulting in the private sector. I am an Air Force spouse, certified Project Management Professional, represent Harnett County's District 4, and I live in Lillington. I serve on the Commission for Women and Youth because I believe there are so many ways that residents and government can and should improve the lives of women and youth living in Harnett County and correct historical injustices that still hold lasting impacts. Change starts with us.

Jennifer Parrish O'Dell is a Harnett County native and resides in Lillington with her family. Jennifer represents District IV for Harnett County and is proud to serve on HCCWY.

She currently works for Campbell University and previously worked for Harnett County Schools. Jennifer is passionate about women’s rights, advocating for children and youth, education, and equitable access for all persons.

Ellen Bryce is a school counselor at Boone Trail Elementary School. I represent District 2. Prior to becoming a school counselor, I taught at Harnett Central Middle School.

I graduated from Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC in May 2017 with a B.A. in History and secondary teaching licensure. Currently, I am attending Salem College for my Master's in Education in School Counseling and am expected to graduate in May 2022.

Outside of the school setting, I enjoy hiking, going to the gym, and swimming. I am currently working on visiting every state park in North Carolina (I've visited 31 so far!). I also have a cat named Patches, who will steal the spotlight in any virtual meeting I attend.