Capt. Tonatte Mitchell Joins Septima P. Clark Foundation Board
Charleston Police Department leader to help advance education and community programs.
Charleston, S.C. (Aug. 11, 2025)—The Charleston Housing Authority (CHA) is proud to share that Capt. Tonatte Mitchell of the Charleston Police Department has been appointed to the board of directors of the Septima P. Clark Foundation, a nonprofit affiliated with CHA and dedicated to advancing education and community programs across the Charleston area.
Capt. Mitchell serves as division commander of the Office of Community-Oriented Policing and is the first Black woman to be promoted to captain within the department. Her distinguished career has been marked by a commitment to mentorship, relationship-building and equity in law enforcement. Her leadership and dedication to community engagement make her a meaningful addition to the Foundation’s board.
“Capt. Mitchell’s appointment reflects our shared commitment with the Charleston Police Department to build strong, resilient neighborhoods,” said Art Milligan Jr., CEO of CHA. “Her voice and perspective will help further the Foundation’s mission and continue Ms. Clark’s legacy.”
In accordance with the Septima P. Clark Foundation’s bylaws, three of the board’s five directors are appointed by the CHA Board of Commissioners. In June, the Board reappointed directors Kathy Nelson, CHA’s resident commissioner, and Aris Ferguson, CHA’s legal counsel, who has served on the board since 2021. Together with Director Sharon Wigfall, who currently serves as president, the three reappointed members selected and invited Capt. Mitchell to join the board.
Founded by CHA in 1996, the foundation honors the values and vision of civil rights leader and educator Septima P. Clark by supporting community-focused initiatives. This includes managing applications and selections for the Cynthia Graham Hurd Memorial Scholarship. This CHA-funded award uplifts local students through access to educational resources and recognition of civic leadership. Hurd was a former CHA commissioner and a victim of the Mother Emanuel shooting. The scholarship was established to honor her service and legacy.
“The Septima P. Clark Foundation is a very special organization, honoring the lives of two incredible women, Mrs. Clark and Mrs. Hurd,” shares Ferguson. “To be a part of carrying forward their legacy is humbling and something that all board members cherish.”
“Having Capt. Mitchell joining us is wonderful and will only help to strengthen our connections between public safety and public housing efforts while advancing inclusive programs that empower Charleston residents of all ages.”
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About Housing Authority of the City of Charleston
Established on May 5, 1935, the Housing Authority of the City of Charleston (CHA) is celebrating 90 years of providing decent, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for low- and moderate-income residents in Charleston. Governed by seven commissioners appointed by the Mayor and City Council. CHA manages daily operations, supporting nearly 1,400 public housing households across the city and more than 1,500 participants in the Housing Choice Voucher Program who live in privately owned residences. CHA is committed to strengthening the Charleston community through reliable housing solutions and supportive services. For more information, visit https://www.chacity.org/.
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Charleston, SC 29403
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