John A. Staine 29

St. Louis County

What do you do professionally?

St. Louis County Residential Assessor

How are you involved in the community? Do you volunteer with any organizations?

I’m involved in various organizations, and helping where I can as a community member. Here’s a few to list: NAACP (Executive Board & Young Adults Committee), DanSan Creatives African Heritage Hub, Equal Justice Committee 6th District, and St. Louis County DEI Leadership Team.

What is important to you?

Family, community, music, peace, and wealthgenerating and trauma-healing conversations.

How do you spend your free time?

Family, community, pickup basketball, video games occasionally, working on music, sauna, wealth-generating and trauma-healing conversations (podcasts/audiobooks).

Favorite things about living and working in the Northland?

Its potential!

What advice would you give to up and coming professionals?

Just keep growing, learning, building and rebuilding. Have conversations. Listen and observe — a LOT.

Favorite moment in life?

A week-long camping trip in the Rockies with my partner, in our van!

Who has inspired you or your favorite motivational quote?

My father; and “Find people moving in the same direction as you.”

Anything else you want to add?

Thank you for the opportunity and nomination. I’m honored and very grateful.

From the nominators

“Our son is John’s biggest fan and it’s easy to see why; John is a kind, selfless, and loving soul who has worked incredibly hard throughout his life while still working to uplift others along the way. He is a supportive partner who values humanity, arts, and intellect. Those who know him personally or professionally are, in my opinion, incredibly lucky to engage with such a genuine person.He makes an impact on people who engage with him through music, conversation, or activism and works to create connections rather than distance between people.”

— Mandy Marshall

“John always, always takes the time to talk to people and listen to their thoughts and concerns; and he is always willing to help, educate, and above all he is willing to be there! He truly does give back to the community! Even if he doesn’t have something physical to give, he gives his 110% commitment and time which is amazing! There is so much to say about John that I probably would run out of space. But overall, he gives back to his community — in a surplus of ways! He is also a remarkable father! He is setting such an emblematic example for his son, but for everyone he encounters!”

Emily McDonald