Meet Our Staff
Thomas Anderson
Manumission House Founder & Executive Director
Formally incarcerated for 22 ½ years and a graduate of the University of Baltimore’s Second Chance program, Thomas brings extensive and relatable experience in reentry services, having served as a Peer Navigator for Second Chance and a Reentry Consultant at St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center’s 180 Program. He holds a BA in Business Administration focused on Economic Development and is pursuing an MS in Nonprofit Management from the University of Baltimore. Thomas will lead the program and ensure the organization’s strategic goals are met.
Our Board of Directors
Donald Manekin
Board Chair
As a founding member of Seawall Development Company and a veteran real estate developer, Donald brings a wealth of experience in property development and community projects. His expertise ensures that MH navigates the complex process of property acquisition and renovation, setting a solid foundation for the housing component of the program. Donald’s background also allows MH to leverage his network and insights for long-term sustainability.
James Ruffin
Board Vice Chair
Is the first person to graduate from the University of Baltimore’s Second Chance Program. With his background in supply chain management and human services, James contributes both operational and strategic expertise. His experience managing large-scale operations at Amazon allows him to assist MH in optimizing its internal processes and ensuring the program runs efficiently. His knowledge in human services also supports MH’s focus on individualized reentry plans and resident services.
Leslie McMillan
Treasurer
With a distinguished career in Maryland state government, Leslie McMillan brings a wealth of expertise in the provision of forensic evaluation services to individuals with developmental disabilities and mental disorders, and financial oversight. Her deep understanding of compliance, program development and oversight, and state regulations ensures Manumission House maintains financial integrity and strategic accountability.
A champion for vulnerable populations, Leslie’s work with individuals facing mental health challenges and systemic barriers has shaped her trauma-informed approach to reentry support. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology/Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), further solidifying her foundation in human services and advocacy.
Susan Wallendorf
Secretary
Susan’s role as a Case Manager and Human Trafficking Specialist at the University of Maryland Safe Center equips her to offer strategic input on providing case management and wraparound services to justice-impacted individuals. Her experience with at-risk populations ensures MH implements robust support structures for residents dealing with trauma and reentry challenges.
She holds an MS in Criminal Justice with a Trauma-Informed Certificate from the University of Baltimore School of Criminal Justice and a BA in Human Services Administration with a Victim Studies Minor from the University of Baltimore School of Public Affairs, she is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work!
Karan Forbes
Advisory Board Member
Karen Forbes is the Assistant Director of Community and Economic Development Partnerships at the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). She cultivates statewide partnerships to expand access to DHCD’s programs and technical assistance, overseeing initiatives like the Community Investment Tax Credit, Endow Maryland Tax Credit, and Operating Assistance Grants.
With 30 years in the nonprofit sector, Karen previously worked at Maryland Legal Aid Bureau as Coordinator of Outreach and Training. She has extensive experience in program planning, community development, and grant administration.
Karen holds a B.A. and an M.A. in Administration of Justice from Penn State University and a J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law.
