Meet The Gathering Staff

Fred Smith

Fred Smith

Fred Smith, President 
Fred Smith is a graduate of Denver University and Harvard Divinity School. He spent several years as teacher and administrator at Charlotte Christian School and The Stony Brook School before joining Leadership Network, where he served as President for 12 years. Fred is the President of The Gathering, an international association of individuals, families and foundations giving to Christian ministries. As well, Fred is the Chairman of Fourth Partner, a non-profit organization focused on Christian philanthropy and community development within the East Texas area. Fred and his wife, Carol, reside in Tyler, Texas and have two grown daughters, a son-in-law, and a grandson.

Melea Edwards

Melea Edwards

Melea Edwards, Conference Manager
Melea Edwards is a graduate of East Texas State University (now Texas A & M University - Commerce) and spent 10 years in the Human Resource Department at Buford Television, Inc. From there, she joined Leadership Network and spent 7 years as a conference and meeting planner. She is the Conference Manager for The Gathering and other regional events. Melea and her husband, Don, have two grown daughters and reside in Tyler, Texas.