Junior Achievement of North Florida has named seven new members to its board of directors. Matthew Ceballos, Jim Deats, Courtney Harris, Chris Haley, Kevin Holbrooks, Elaine Johnson and Josh Johnson have joined the board.

The seven new board members come from a variety of professional backgrounds, but each has a passion for helping to prepare young people for the future. Matthew Ceballos is a manager at Fidelity Investments which has helped teach young people how to generate wealth, effectively manage it, plan for the future, and improve their communities. Jim Deats is a managing director for Bank of America/Merrill Lynch. He believes strongly in JA’s mission to positively impact young people. Courtney Harris is a regional director for Florida Blue and says JA’s work in building thriving communities aligns with his personal priorities along with those of his employer.

Chris Haley, general partner with FINTOP Capital, said he is excited for the opportunity to serve on the JA Board and said his passion and interests mirror those of the mission of JA. JEA Director Kevin Holbrooks is a firm believer in JA’s mission. He said investing in youth makes the community a better place for everyone to live.

Excelan Advisors Founder Elaine Johnson says her passion for education and workforce development has driven her volunteer activities throughout her professional life. She is looking forward to committing her time to JA of North Florida and doing all she can to help students enter the workforce with the knowledge, skills, and insights to be meaningful contributors to the economic development of our region and their own financial independence. And Josh Johnson, senior manager for Johnson & Johnson Vision, is a longtime JA classroom volunteer and an active supporter and participant in JANFL’s annual North Florida Golf Classic.

The seven members are now part of a board made up of 39 community leaders who volunteer their time to help promote and enhance the mission of JA of North Florida.