MMSA Announces Promotions of Zieren and Raney

09.23.2025

JACKSON, Miss. (Sept. 19, 2025)—The Mississippi Main Street Association announced promotions of two of its team members for the statewide community and economic development organization. Jeannie Waller Zieren of Oxford, Miss., has been named executive director, and Beth Raney of Clinton, Miss., has been named deputy director.

Zieren will lead the organization’s administrative, advocacy, and development efforts and serve as Mississippi coordinator for Main Street America. She has served MMSA as director of communication and marketing since 2008.

Raney will oversee grants, special projects, and business operations for the state organization. Since joining MMSA in 2019, Raney has held multiple leadership roles, including director of business and finance and director of office operations.

"We are thrilled to have Jeannie and Beth grow in their roles as we navigate the future of Mississippi Main Street," said Kelle Barfield, president of the MMSA board of directors. "We have an excellent team leading us into the next phase of our state's exciting journey of economic vitality and revitalization."

The mission of MMSA is to catalyze preservation and economic revitalization of Mississippi's historic downtowns and traditional commercial districts. MMSA has 48 designated Main Street communities, five network members, and 32 associate members.

"It is a privilege to lead this organization and work with a talented statewide team to provide support and assistance to our members as they work daily to improve the quality of life in their communities," Zieren said. "We're excited to work with leaders throughout the state who share the vision of investing in and creating places where people and businesses thrive."

Zieren, a native of Jackson, holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Mississippi. Throughout her 17-year tenure at MMSA, Zieren has contributed to a broad range of initiatives, including advertising, marketing, and communications services for member communities. Her responsibilities have encompassed public and media relations, member training and education, strategic partnership development, statewide marketing efforts, and the planning and execution of conferences and events. 

In 2018, Zieren earned the Main Street America Revitalization Professional credential in recognition of her expertise and commitment to community revitalization. 

With a strong background in nonprofit leadership, Raney brings experience in managing nonprofit organizations, with a focus on financial stewardship, operational efficiency, and mission-driven program support.

Her work supports MMSA’s statewide initiatives in expanding the organization’s reach and resources as she has guided the administration of millions of dollars in grant funding to member programs. Raney holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of North Florida.

"We have an excellent team in place to continue our momentum as a state leader in community and economic development," Raney said. "We look forward to what the future holds for MMSA, and most importantly, for the Main Street communities of Mississippi."