Donna Newton is the Executive Director of The Health Enrichment Network (THEN) in Allen Parish, and the Project Manager of EatMoveGrow. She has vast experience in rural preventative service networks that provide education and preventative programs to improve individual health and expand access to health care. In 2011, Donna was selected by her peers to represent them at the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) Rural Voices Leadership Conference in Washington DC and continues to be a valuable source of knowledge and experience at regional and national conferences addressing health needs in rural areas. In 2017, Donna, along with Amy Karam, received the LAHPERD Service Award for her commitment to serving the children of rural south Louisiana through her leadership role in EatMoveGrow.

Donna received a BS in Secondary Education from ULL in Lafayette and began her teaching career in Avoyelles Parish. She taught junior and senior high school students and was a mentor to student athletes. After receiving her Masters in Exercise Science from the University of Southern Mississippi, she became the Director of the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Wellness Center for Oakdale Community Hospital. Years later, Donna began working for The Health Enrichment Network. Since then, she has worked to develop a myriad of health and education programs in rural communities. Donna also has certifications in AHA CPR & First Aid, Lifestyle Coach, and NIH Certification in Protecting Human Research Participants.