BoardWalk Consulting, a national executive search firm exclusively focused on nonprofit and foundation leadership, is pleased to announce that Demeika Wheaton has joined the firm as Director. Her arrival underscores BoardWalk’s longstanding commitment to finding leaders that matter for missions that matter® and expands the firm’s capabilities in strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and organizational culture.

Based in Atlanta, Demeika brings more than 25 years of experience advising leaders and organizations across the nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors. A trusted counselor to executives and boards, she helps organizations navigate high-stakes challenges and complex transitions, shaping strategies that elevate impact and helping teams move forward with clarity and confidence.

Before joining BoardWalk, Demeika served as Senior Vice President and Market Lead at Porter Novelli, a global communications agency, where she led integrated teams and served as a trusted advisor to executives and boards across a diverse portfolio of clients. Her expertise spans strategic communications, executive counsel, stakeholder engagement, brand storytelling, reputation management, and change management. She is known as a champion of culture – bringing out the best in others, cultivating inclusive environments, and helping leaders tap into their strengths to create lasting impact.

“Demeika brings a powerful combination of strategic perspective, emotional intelligence, and lifelong commitment to mission-centered leadership,” said Crystal Stephens, BoardWalk’s CEO & Managing Director. “Her experience guiding organizations through complex challenges and helping leaders move with clarity and confidence will be invaluable to our clients. We are delighted to welcome her to the BoardWalk team.”

Sam Pettway, BoardWalk’s Founding Director, echoed that sentiment, saying, “Demeika is a gifted facilitator and advisor whose relational intelligence sets her apart. She listens deeply, connects authentically, and helps her clients make thoughtful decisions with confidence.”

Throughout her career, Demeika has advised leaders at every stage, facilitating strategic conversations and designing award-winning initiatives that improve outcomes for women, youth, families, and communities.

Demeika is also deeply committed to developing emerging leaders, coaching high school, college, and early-career professionals in communication, professional presence, and leadership development. In addition, her work with organizations focused on education, faith, and community impact helps strengthen the communities they serve.

Reflecting on her transition to BoardWalk, Demeika said, “I am passionate about helping mission-driven organizations navigate complexity, clarify their voice, and lead with purpose. Joining BoardWalk allows me to channel that passion into helping clients discover and develop the leaders who will shape their future. It’s legacy work, and I am proud to be part of it.”