Nationwide — Planned Parenthood Southeast (PPSE) has appointed Tangela Q. Parker as Senior Vice President of External Affairs, bringing a powerful blend of healthcare leadership, brand strategy, and community advocacy to the organization’s executive team. Parker, who joined PPSE in August 2025, will oversee marketing, communications, development, advocacy, and community engagement across Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi — three states at the center of the reproductive-health landscape.
As the organization’s chief external strategist and spokesperson, Parker will lead efforts to strengthen PPSE’s public voice, deepen community ties, and expand access to reproductive and preventive care for underserved populations throughout the South.
“Tangela’s experience building high-impact initiatives and leading through complexity makes her uniquely equipped to guide our external affairs strategy,” said Mairo Akpose, CEO of PPSE. “Her leadership will be essential as we continue advancing health equity and ensuring our communities have access to the care and information they need.”
Parker brings more than 20 years of experience across healthcare, marketing, and public affairs. She has held senior roles at CVS Health, Centene Corporation, UnitedHealthcare, and Humana, where she built high-performing teams, led major community-health collaborations, and championed programs that connected vulnerable populations to care and resources.
“I’m honored to step into this role at a moment when reproductive health, bodily autonomy, and community trust are being tested across the South,” Parker said. “My commitment is simple: amplify our mission, protect access, and ensure our communities feel seen, respected, and supported. This work is deeply personal, and I’m ready to meet the moment.”
A proud alumna of Alcorn State University, Parker also completed executive leadership training at Harvard Business School. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and an active member of the Forbes Communications Council, where she contributes thought leadership on brand influence, community strategy, and organizational trust.
Parker’s impact extends beyond her professional accomplishments. She received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joe Biden in 2024, a national recognition reserved for leaders who dedicate more than 4,000 hours of service to uplifting their communities.
Her appointment signals PPSE’s continued commitment to investing in experienced, community-rooted leaders who understand the cultural nuances of advocacy work in the Southeast.
About Planned Parenthood Southeast
Planned Parenthood Southeast provides comprehensive reproductive healthcare, education, and advocacy across Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. PPSE is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care and advancing health equity for all, regardless of income, race, gender identity, or immigration status.
For press inquiries, contact press@ppse.org