Brister to Lead DJP

Downtown Jackson Partners has appointed Liz Brister as president of the organization, effective February 1, 2025.

Brister brings fresh leadership and energy to the state’s largest commercial district and will focus on attracting more residential development—an approach that has fueled urban growth across the country.

“Nationally, there is a shift to live, work, and play in the city center. This can drive our state’s growth as we reimagine a downtown that provides more residential dwellings and the amenities that naturally follow, such as restaurants, bodegas, and other retail,” said Brister. “Blending a traditional business district with residential helps create a more vibrant downtown for everyone.”

With investments through the Capitol Complex Improvement District, including the Capitol Police Force, state-owned buildings, and attractions like the Two Mississippi Museums, the state has made significant contributions to downtown Jackson’s development.

“All Mississippians have invested their tax dollars in our downtown. We want to make it a place where everyone feels ownership and is proud of what the capital city represents to the state and the country,” said bishop Ronnie C. Crudup, chair of Downtown Jackson Partners. “We believe Liz has the right leadership experience to help us elevate downtown Jackson—Mississippi’s downtown—even higher.”

Brister joins Downtown Jackson Partners following a 16-year career at Entergy, where she most recently served as director of corporate social responsibility for the company’s four-state service area. In this role, she oversaw low-income customer initiatives, securing millions in bill payment assistance and providing grants designed to empower customers for economic success. She previously served as manager of external affairs for Entergy Mississippi, guiding corporate contributions, volunteerism, and low-income initiatives for the utility.

She has held leadership roles on numerous local boards, including the Fondren Renaissance Foundation, where she served as president during the development of the Capri theatre and highball lanes. Additionally, she has served multiple terms on the board of the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition.

Brister holds a master’s degree in business administration from Millsaps College and a bachelor’s degree in business management from Tulane University. The Public Affairs Council in Washington, D.C., certified her in public affairs management, and she is an alumna of the Mississippi Economic Council’s Leadership Mississippi program.