Top 22 of 2022 NBLSLC

National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Recognizing Staff Excellence in Leadership Top 22 of 2022

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

President Billy Mitchell (GA)

President-Elect Laura Hall (AL)

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Adele McClure Virginia

Adele McClure is an advocate and activist in Virginia and serves as the Executive Director of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus. Adele works on issues that include addressing systemic racism, homelessness, housing instability, evictions, food insecurity and expanding criminal justice reform, policing reform, tenants’rights, voting rights, labor rights, and more.

Her many civic activities include serving on numerous boards and committees including the Forbes 30 Under 30 Global Board, to which she was elected shortly after as she was named to the Forbes list for her policy work. She launched her candidacy for House of Delegates in Virginia’s 2nd District inArlington.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Allyson Sneed Tennessee

Allyson M. Sneed is an Executive Legislative Research and Policy Assistant in the Tennessee General Assembly with over 20 years of experience. Allyson is responsible for communicating and educating legislative updates to the (9) mayors and numerous elected officials in a rural West Tennessee district. Her positive attitude and desire to serve those communities most often overlooked has been one of her greatest assets.

Allyson served a chair/president of NBCSL’sAfrican American Legislative Staff Coordinating committee for 5 years. She was the first and only legislative staffer awarded the National Black Caucus of State Legislators Crystal Gavel Award in 2014 during ALC in Dallas, Texas.

She is Kentucky native and graduate of Belmont University in Nashville. Allyson is a history buff, enjoys travel and spending time with her family.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Mrs. Amie Fender-Sosa

Oregon

Amie serves as a non partisan policy analyst and committee staff for the Oregon Legislature. Her areas of expertise include child welfare, housing, long-term care and aging, self sufficiency, workers’ compensation and civil law and procedure. She is also the parliamentarian for the African American Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee (AALSCC).

She has over 15 years of professional experience conducting complex legal as well as policy analysis. She has worked for the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, in addition to being in-house counsel for a Fortune 500 company. Her passion is policy research and development; she enjoys the fast-paced environment of the legislature where she can help state lawmakers craft good policy.

Amie is a licensed attorney in Oregon, Washington, and Nevada, and is a licensed master’s Level Social Worker. Amie is married and lives in Hillsboro where she regularly volunteers with local nonprofits. She loves outdoor activities (kayaking, camping, hiking, bouldering, and obstacle course racing), baking sweet things, reading mysteries, and watching football.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Athena Guice Florida

Athena Guice is a Black and Puerto Rican Floridian who’s committed her life to community service and civic engagement. As a mother of two daughters, Athena firmly believes that her active role in policy stems from a desire to build a more functional, safer, and inclusive community for future generations. Though originally from Tampa, Florida, Athena was raised in Broward County, Florida where she became active with her community at a young age; She served her community church as a youth pastor at the age of 14 while dedicating her time to her studies with no idea that she’d develop a liking for policy work as a young adult.

At just 15 years old, Athena was presented a prestigious opportunity to start college at 16 and attended College Academy at Broward College in South Florida with less than 200 others of her class. Athena co founded a chapter of Dream Defenders, a nationally recognized social justice organization, at 17 years old at Broward College. Athena earned her Associate’s degree at 18 years old and intentionally became one of the youngest instructional staff members for Broward County Public Schools.

Athena has served her community for several years as a community organizer, full spectrumdoula, doula mentor, writer and substitute teacher. As of 2022, Athena joined the legislative process at the request of Representative Campbell who won a special election to fill Former Representative Bobby Dubose’s seat and finish his term. Athena now honorably serves in the Florida Legislature’s House of Representatives as a District Aide in Broward’s House District 99 Legislative office. Athena works every day to support, collaborate and build with the many constituents, organizations, and communities toward a Florida for all. An important focus that supports Athena on the marathon of public service is a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who once said: “It's time for political leaders across the ideological spectrum to realize that, while partisanship is understandable, hyper partisanship is destructive to our country. We need more visionary leaders who will earnestly strive for bipartisanship and find policy solutions that can move America forward.”

Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Cheryl Dozier Missouri

Cheryl Dozier is currently the Executive Director, MISSOURI LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS, The Missouri Legislative Black Caucus is comprised ofAfrican American, inclusive of Democrat and Republican members of the Missouri House of Representatives and the Missouri Senate in the Missouri Legislature. Collectively they represent the urban core of St. Louis City and County, Mid Missouri and the City of Kansas City. Additionally, membership with theAfrican American Executive Leadership Council, an organization inclusive of all Executive Directors of all Black Caucuses throughout the United States and the Virgin Islands.

Associate with FLOTRON and MCINTOSH GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS.

President, AMERICAN BLACK HUMANE SOCIETY

Additionally, Cheryl Dozier is C.E.O. of The Dozier Group International, a Film and Entertainment Management consulting firm. The firm provides strategic advice and expertise to individuals, businesses, non profits and other organizations on legislative, executive and political and governmental affairs issues. She holds a Bachelor ofArts with emphasis In Marketing and Management.

The Dozier Group International has supported and assisted in passing legislation relative to economic development, healthcare, education, entertainment and film industry.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Danielle Daniels Oklahoma

My name is Danielle Daniels, and I am the Executive Assistant for Senator Jake Merrick, proudly helping him serve SD 22. Whether it’s legislative processes, bill filing, or constituent services, D 22 keeps me productive!

My proudest accomplishment serving D-22 has been the 2021 Interim Study on DHS Reform. This study helped the Oklahoma Senate realize opportunities for improvement through legislation. Christ came to serve man through His sacrifice, not to be served. His example of servitude is my motivation and the foundation that holds me up.

What I learned while pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Biblical Leadership is that being in leadership is not about power, title, or even recognition; it is about ensuring quality service for all. I can confidently say I am a Servant Leader. Kaizen is the continuous improvement of oneself; this is my life motto and why I became a Certified World Class Assistant (CWCA). When we are focused on improvement, we impact not only our lives but the lives of those who cross our paths. Because of my Servant Leadership, I have been featured in the Oklahoma Magazine 40 Under 40 2021 edition as a young professional who surpasses expectations.

I firmly believe that healthy families are the foundation of safe and healthy communities. That is why I am currently pursuing my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am dedicated to helping families and couples reach their desired therapeutic change through a Biopsychosocial Spiritual approach with a Bowenian foundation. In my free time, I listen to live music, sing, read, meet new people, go to poetry slams, and enjoy nature

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Dulana Reese

IllinoisDulana Reese is a Mississippi native living and thriving in Chicago. She serves as the Chief of Staff for State Representative Kam Buckner. In this capacity, she supports the representative by building relationships with community stakeholders, inspiring their team to go above and beyond, ensuring the community’s voices are heard.

Dulana believes in giving back to communities that helped her to grow into the person she is today. In her hometown, she established the Reese Foundation Scholarship to give to a deserving high school senior who has aspirations to make Mississippi better. She serves as Councilwoman on South Loop Elementary’s Local School Council, where she is the chair of the communications committee. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

She graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor’s in Communications Studies and earned a Master’s in Public Service Management from DePaul University. In her spare time, she loves exploring outside with her husband, reading, listening to music, and playing Fortnite with her nephew. Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence

* National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Rylene Harper

Delaware

Rylene M. Harper brings a wealth of knowledge to our team in the area of legislative experience. She began her career in state service by working in the Lieutenant Governor’s office, before joining the House of Representatives Democratic Caucus where she was assigned to work for House Minority Leader Dr. Orlando J. George and House Minority Whip Robert F. Gilligan for five years.

Throughout the years, Rylene has worked for many well known legislators, including State Representatives Al O. Plant and Hazel D. Plant, Herman M. Holloway, Jr. and former State Representatives turned City of Wilmington Mayors James H. Sills, Jr. and Dennis P. Williams.

Most recently, Rylene had the pleasure of working for State Representatives James Johnson, Michael Mulrooney and Charles Potter, Jr. She now works for newly elected State Representatives Melissa Minor Brown and Franklin D. Cooke, Jr.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Andrea Porter Illinois

Andrea Porter was born an only child and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Andrea lost both parents at a young age to gun violence and drug addiction. At the age of two, she was adopted by her paternal grandmother (Gloria Porter) where her love for academia grew. She was involved in various after school programs, and honor societies. Andrea attended Simeon Career Academy where she majored in Cosmetology. At the age of 18, Andrea had graduated with her high school diploma as well as earning a license in Cosmetology. During high school, she got a job for her local park district and started learning about the importance of municipal government. Through her work with the park district, Andrea became a community organizer with a focus on childcare.

In 2008, Andrea followed her family and moved from Chicago to Champaign Urbana Illinois where she held management positions in both retail, and health care. Since living in Champaign Urbana, Andrea has found a community that is passionate about social change.

In December of 2018, Andrea was hired to her dream job as a Legislative Aid for State Representative Carol Ammons’ district office where she works on longtime interests like politics, public policy, and constituent concerns. She loves helping the constituents of the 103rd build a stronger relationship with their State Rep.

In addition to her work in the 103rd district, Andrea served as an Illinois Ambassador for AALSCC under NBCSL leadership and in 2020 was elected to an Executive position as Secretary for the organization.

Today, Andrea oversees the district office as Chief of Staff. Where she manages the internship program, handles all scheduling, the district's budget and is the supervisor of the Constituent Services department. Andrea also serves as a local Advisory Council Board member for loss prevention dollars appointed by the Department of Human services. Andrea is working hard to bring equity to all local non profit organizations and churches. One of her favorite sayings, “It’s Handled” because she prides herself in getting the job done. Top 22 of 2022 Staff

Ms. Ebony Pardo

Florida

Ebony Pardo is an advocate for humanitarianism, women’s health, and fostering a healthier work culture. She has worked in the private, non profit, and public sectors, however her career in civil service with municipalities, the county, state, and Congress proudly spans a little over a decade. Ebony L. Pardo previously served as the District Senior Executive Secretary for the office of former Democratic Co Leader, State Representative Bobby DuBose of Florida District 94.

She has garnered a few accolades for her achievements, including receiving the "2021 Leadership Inspiration Award" from the African American Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee (AASLCC) and serving as its Executive Committee's Treasurer, being a 2020 graduate of the Ronik Radlauer Group’s Learning to Lead program, and 2018 Legacy South Florida’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow Honoree.

Ebony continues to serve the community through her work with a respected non-profit and its partnerships throughout the state of Florida. She received her bachelor’s in psychology from Cedar Crest College and master’s in management (with a concentration in Healthcare Administration) from New England College. When this transplanted New Yorker can find a spare moment, Ebony enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones virtually, watching films, and sharing company with her cat.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair.”

The Late Honorable Shirley Chisholm

Mrs. Gracie Monson Oklahoma

Gracie Monson received a Bachelor’s degree inAccounting from Central State University (now University of Central Oklahoma) and has worked in state government for over 35 years. She served as Legislative Assistant to State Representative Mike Shelton, District 97 from January 2, 2006, until October 2015. She became Legislative Assistant for Representative Kevin Matthews, District 72, Tulsa at that time. Senator Matthews was elected to the Oklahoma State Senate inApril 2015, and she became his Executive Assistant and continues to serve in that position.

Gracie is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Oklahoma CityAlumnae Chapter, where she serves as Vice Chair of the Social Action Committee. In that capacity, she has co hosted many forums relating to voter registration, redistricting, healthcare and legislation affecting the state and nation. Gracie is also a member of Leadership Oklahoma, Class X.

Gracie is married to the Rev.Artemus Monson and they have two children, Terrence and Nicole; they have three grandchildren, Kamee, Dalyn and Darius; one great granddaughter, Brayleigh Grace; and two grand dogs: Sebastian and Zeke.

Gracie is a member of the New Hope Baptist Church in Chickasha, Oklahoma, where her pastor is Rev.Al Walter, and husband serves as Assistant Pastor.At her church, Gracie is a Deaconess, Sunday School teacher, Women’s Ministry Director and teacher, and Intercessory Prayer Ministry member.

Gracie has spoken at many churches all over the state, has taught Evangelism to many persons from many different churches, and continues to speak to various women’s groups.

“Stop setting yourself on fire to keep other people warm”

~Pastor Shun Strickland

Ms. Edith Perry Maryland

Edith Perry is the Chief of Staff for Delegate Joseline Peña Melnyk District 21 in the great state of Maryland and has been with the Delegate for the last ten years. Born in Akron, Ohio she relocated to Maryland via an AT&T corporation advancement.

Before accepting the position of Chief of Staff Edith was the Community Liaison accountable for all Constituent Services. In this capacity, Edith has assisted hundreds of families during their most critical and vulnerable life experiences. Edith is consistently preferred as the subject matter expert by Legislative Staff, as she is able to aid constituents quickly and provide resources.

Edith was instrumental in the initial legislation to establishing the first in the United States committee titled The Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Committee who were awarded a grant by the Federal Government. The committee is now a model for the country. In addition, Edith headed the effort to implement the 911 Bill and challenged the fiscal note that hundreds of thousands of dollars would be required to implement the removal of dialing 1 before 911 during an emergency at many hotels, place of lodging and other related locations. Due to Edith’s AT&T technical experience, she explained how the change was already inherent in most then business telephone systems. The cost to make the change was only what a business would pay the Technician to adjust the settings approximately eighty five dollars. The bill passed and was implemented throughout the United States.

Prior to coming to the Maryland General Assembly Edith retired from AT&T as a Telecommunications Engineer Manager and was the first Black and female Private Line Test Board Manager in Ohio. At AT&T Edith implemented the first self healing network at Fort Meade. After retirement, Edith accepted a position as a Legacy Leader through the University Of Maryland Legacy Leadership Institute Of Public Policy. Edith's first challenge was to assist the State of Maryland’s Governor’s Grant Office where she played a significant and well recognized role to connect businesses with grant opportunities.

Edith is an active member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Prince George’s Chapter and serves as the Public Policy Chair. Edith is a member of the League of Women Voters Prince George’s Chapter and National Action Network District of Columbia.

Edith is married to Johnnie Perry a retired Software Engineer and Scientist from Northrup Grumman and has five adult children. Edith’s motto is”

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence

National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

“Leadership is not a position or title it is action and living by example. Walk through life by personal power not position power and use that power to help”

Ms. Endra Curry South Carolina

Anative of the Palmetto State, born and raised in the Lowcountry before becoming a Midland’s transplant, Endra Curry has resided in the state’s capital since graduating from the flagship University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Economics in 2012, and a Master’s degree in PublicAdministration in 2014. She is currently employed as the Director of Financial Policy for the Offices of Senate Research and Senate Majority for the Senate of South Carolina.

Prior to this position, Ms. Curry served as the Federal Relations Officer and National Transportation Advisor to the Secretary of Transportation for the South Carolina Department of Transportation, and as a Senior BudgetAnalyst for the Finance Committee, also a role within the upper chamber of the South Carolina GeneralAssembly.

For three years, Ms. Curry taught as anAdjunct Instructor within the business program of a local community college and volunteered as a Board Director, and later Chairwoman, of a local nonprofit providing resources for youth and families. Ms. Curry currently volunteers as a tutor with the Midland’s Reading Consortium, a program within the United Way of the Midlands, that provides educational supports to children in the Columbia, South Carolina region.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Mr. Richard Bean Oklahoma

At present, Mr. Richard Bean is the Legislative Assistant for Oklahoma House of Representatives in the office of John Waldron and Jason Lowe, Esq. Prior to accepting that position, Richard was a Career Technology educator and worked in the corporate sector prior to teaching. Mr. Bean extended his corporate career at SBC Corporation for eleven years, in addition to holding a series of positions including Area Manager which encompassed Public Relations as well as Legislative Liaison. His past work experiences include Community Relations Manager, Wireless Technology Corporate Sales Rep., Accounts Receivables Manager

Mr. Bean is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma with a B.S. in Computer Science. He is a musician and artist who enjoys the arts. He attained his teaching certification and taught Business Technology for thirteen years at Edmond Santa Fe High School Edmond, OK

Mr. Bean is a proud family man of great faith who enjoys interacting with people from all walks of life. Richard gravitates toward organizations that give back to his and surrounding communities. He is a self taught AV specialist who loves creating high quality, impactful videos to help further the cause of others. He uses his abilities not only as an entrepreneur but to solidify his legacy of servitude.

Richard is a native of Oklahoma City, married to his beautiful wife Fonda Bean and a great father to his two daughters and Pop pop to his granddaughter. He is also a proud member ofAlpha PhiAlpha Fraternity, Incorporated, wherein, he serves as the Corresponding Secretary for the Beta Eta Lambda Chapter of Oklahoma City, OK and sole video producer for the One Nine National Brotherhood Reclamation Committee.

“Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity” Dr. Martin Luther King

Ms. Archana Cadge Louisiana

Archana Cadge is an attorney with the Louisiana Senate and serves as legal counsel for the Senate Committee on Transportation, Public Works, and Highways under the Chairman of the Committee on Joint Transportation. She is a native of Detroit, Michigan, and a three time Graduate of Southern University, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts, a Master of PublicAdministration, and a Juris Doctorate from the Southern University Law Center.

After graduating from law school, Attorney Cadge represented the state of Louisiana as legal counsel with various state agencies and obtained extensive knowledge in multiple areas of governmental law. She began her tenure as a Bankruptcy and Sales Tax Attorney with the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Before moving to the Louisiana Senate, she was counsel for the Office of Financial Institutions and presided as anAdministrative Law Judge for the Louisiana Workforce Commission. She has practiced as a solo practitioner and consultant for newly formed businesses and non profit organizations prior to becoming an Expropriation and Contracts attorney with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.

Attorney Cadge is currently the parliamentarian of the Gamma Eta Omega chapter ofAlpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, with membership and service of more than 20 years. In the leadership of a two hundred plus member local chapter, she has worked extensively within the community and created a presence while implementing programs that provide services to under represented college and high school young women in the capitol city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

She is an ardent advocate for workplace equality, marginalized classes of people, and human rights.

“Agoal without a plan is just a wish. Aplan without action is just a dream”

Ms. LaToya Alexander Oklahoma

LatoyaAlexander is the LegislativeAssistant in the Oklahoma House of Representatives House District 19 office of Representative Justin JJ Humphrey., in this position she serves constituents and develop and connect with professionals in all government areas.

My educational background catapulted me to where I am today. My bachelor's degree is in Community Health, and I have a minor in Sociology. I fought hard to obtain this degree while also being a young single mother to an infant boy. I continued to use my education to advocate for the need for research and development for infant mortality, affecting Oklahoma's infant mortality rate. I served on several state agency committees as a family member representative advocating for health disparities affectingAfricanAmerican women and children.As a family member representative, I sought a role where I could continue to make an impact with the laws surrounding these issues.

As a legislative assistant, I strive to use my experience in advocacy to adequately equip the Representative Justin JJ Humphrey, Chairman of the Criminal Justice and Corrections Committee, to make a real-world impact on the lives of Oklahoma citizens. I am dedicated to assisting with positive life challenges for all constituents.

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2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

“God never promised us a victory without a battle”

~ Bishop George Woodard Jr.

Ms. Trena Byas Oklahoma

MsTrena Byas is a native of Tennessee and the daughter of Christopher Columbus Welch and the late Ollie Ruth Welch. She is also the granddaughter of the late Milner Centennial Walker and the late Betty Louise Birdsong. MsTrena graduated from Gallatin High School in 1987, earned an Associate of Arts degree from Southwestern Christian College in 1989, and a second Associate of Arts degree from Rose State College in 2011, where she served as an elected officer in student government. She has lived in the Oklahoma City area for almost 30 years. MsTrena worked at the Oklahoma House of Representative as a legislative assistant for two state representatives for eight years, served the constituents of Senate District 48 in Oklahoma City for four years, and currently serves the constituents of Senate District 16 with the Oklahoma State Senate. She has almost 20 years of service in government. She is a graphics designer, lifestyle manager, professional organizer, project manager, and licensed notary.

MsTrena is a commissioned designer for political campaigns that include judges, commissioners, state, county, and city officials, and other civic and community organizations. She is a member of the Northeast Church of Christ, Oklahoma City Branch of the NAACP, Oklahoma Notary Public Association, the American Association of Notaries, former member of Urban League Young Professionals, former 1st Vice President of the Central Oklahoma Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., and former regional officer as Area I Reporter and newsletter designer/editor for the national office of Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. MsTrena studied organizational management and leadership at the University of Central Oklahoma, pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, she plans to complete her pursuant of a bachelor’s degree and then complete a master’s degree in public administration and a doctoral degree in organizational leadership.

She is a soprano soloist and has performed with the Southwestern Christian College Chorus, Northeast Church of Christ Chorus, A cappella Connection, 4 Given, and currently sings with an a cappella all female group called “W.I.N.G.S.,” which stands for “Women In Need of God Sing.” She also performs as a solo artist on legislative, religious, and social programs, locally and nationally. MsTrena is a mentor to inner-city youth and enjoys making a positive impact in the lives of others. She enjoys traveling, working, fishing, sewing, drawing, bowling, singing, and listening to all types of music, from gospel to country and all in between. She has no children, however, has loved on many children as a foster parent. MsTrena is an African American art collector and an avid Mickey Mouse fan

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Jennifer Stallworth

Alabama

Jennifer Stallworth is a native of the Historic Selma, AL, known for the March from Selma to Montgomery during the civil rights era. She received her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Faulkner University before pursuing a career in public policy.

In January 2019, she joined the Alabama House of Representatives as a committee clerk of the Health Committee, Urban and Rural Development Committee, and Shelby County committee before becoming the clerk for Local Legislation. As she enters her second quadrennium at the House of Representatives, Jennifer is preparing to begin her journey into the Executive J.D. program at The Thomas Goode Jones School of law , to continue her career in public policy and to further service her hometown of Selma, AL.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Jasmine Miller North Carolina

Jasmine is a North Carolina native born to Amos and Patricia Quick. At the age of three her family moved from Charlotte, NC to Greensboro, NC where she spent the remainder of her adolescent years. Jasmine attended James B. Dudley Sr. High School, which was the first black high school in Guilford County. After graduating high school, she attended North Carolina State University where she majored in criminology and forensic science. After graduating from NC State, Jasmine went back home to Guilford County to work as a deputy clerk in both courthouses in Guilford County. Jasmine later went on to get two Masters of Science degrees, one in forensic psychology and one in health psychology. She later moved to Charlotte and worked as a contractor for US OPM as a federal investigator conducting security clearances for the federal government.

In 2017, Jasmine started working her current job in Raleigh, NC as a legislative assistant in the NC House of Representatives. Through her years as a legislative assistant, Jasmine has been able to help the constituents of North Carolina district 58 with a bevy of issues. In 2021, Jasmine and her Representative discussed the housing crisis the state of North Carolina is currently facing and with his support Jasmine created a statewide proposal to help remedy the crisis that also touched on treating mental health illnesses that so many of the homeless population face. Through this proposal Jasmine began meeting with local, state, and federal politicians to discuss what would work best for the needs in their areas.

While in college Jasmine volunteered at schools in Guilford, Alamance, and Wake counties. She has also mentored the youth and is an advocate in the community for knowing your rights and letting your voice be heard through the power of voting. Jasmine is a wife to Alvin Miller and a mother to their creative son Marcus. In 2020 Jasmine and her husband, Alvin, wrote, illustrated, and published a children’s book based on their son which launched their family business and their company’s website. In the future Jasmine desires to expand the family business and create a children’s book series. She also has high hopes that with tenacity and perseverance she will be able to get a version of the homeless proposal passed through the House and Senate in order to help those who need it most. Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence

National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.“

Maya Angelou

Ms. Stephanie Hall Maryland

Stephanie K. Hall, an established public policy career analyst, currently serves as the Executive Director for the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, Inc. and is responsible for managing 61elected officials of the Maryland General Assembly and working with the Black Caucus of Maryland Foundation and other stakeholders to keep them informed of the function of the state legislative body. Another key component of her responsibility lies with working on public policy that affects the African American community of the state and surrounding jurisdiction and building a regional partnership with other states Black Caucuses.

She also is Special Advisor to the President for the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies. Her job involves representing the President at meetings, prioritizing correspondences and meetings, and drafting internal and external communications. She also works on diversity issues on the Hill. In addition, she coordinates legislative issues with national government officials. She demonstrates efficiency and effectiveness in coordinating government relations strategies with relevant internal and external stakeholders along with enhancing the development and management of strategies for strengthening the Legislative Black Caucus’s relationships with other elected officials, government agencies and community based organizations.

Stephanie has an extensive background in fundraising and development along with program management with a specialized focus on Minority Health & Health Disparities. A Shreveport, Louisiana native and graduate of Jackson State University, she has double master’s in public health and Public Policy from University of North Texas Health and George Mason University respectively.

Stephanie is a PhD student at Howard University pursuing a degree in Higher Education & Leadership Policy Studies and has Certification & Training from institutions that include but not limited to: Yale University, Boston College, and the Congressional Black Caucus Institute Political Education and Leadership. Her volunteerism is extensive. Present and past memberships reflect her exceptional involvement and commitment to serving her communities. She is a member of the Regional Social Action Commission for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Alfred Street Baptist Church where she chairs Voter Empowerment and Education Impact 2020 Census; serves on the committee for the largest HBCU college fair, and Women Empowerment organizations.

Mary McLeod Bethune

Leadership Council

Awoman is free if she lives by her own standards and creates her own destiny, if she prizes her individuality and puts no boundaries on her hopes for tomorrow.”

Ms. Sabrina N. Lewellen

Arkansas

Sabrina NeKay Evelyn Lewellen is the NCSL Staff Vice Chair and the Deputy Director andAssistant Secretary of the Arkansas Senate. From 2008 to 2013, she served as the Constituency Services/Research & Special Projects Manager for the Senate. She joined the staff in 2003. Sabrina holds a Bachelor of Science inAgriculture/Food Science /Minor Environmental Science from Florida A&M University (1999 - magna cum laude) and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Vanderbilt Law School (2002). She is active with the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) where she currently serves on the Executive Committee and the Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee. She is a member of theAmerican Society of Legislative Clerks and Secretaries (ASLCS). In past years, she served as vice chairman and chairman of the Research and Committee Staff Section (RACSS). In 2015, she received the RACCS StaffAchievementAward for her leadership contributions. Sabrina is a member of the 2009 class of NCSL’s Legislative Staff Management Institute.

In 2021, Sabrina was a guest on the NCSLpodcast, Our American States The Why of Working in the Legislature. In 2010, NCSL's State Legislatures magazine featured Sabrina in the article entitled "New Wave" which highlighted 10 emerging individuals in a generation of legislative staff leaders who may change and challenge the way legislatures across the nation do business. She was featured in theApril 2011 issue of STAND! News as one of four Women to Watch in 2011, and in June 2011, she was named one ofArkansas’s most prominent people under age 40 in Arkansas Business’18th class of “40 Under 40”. She is also a member of Class XXXII of Leadership Greater Little Rock. Sabrina believes in investing in her community. She is member of the board of directors of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI), a past president and current member of the Junior League of Little Rock (JLLR). She also served as the 2019 2020 President of POLL (Presidents of Large Leagues), which is an affinity group ofAJLI. In 2020, Sabrina received JLLR’s Elizabeth “Betsey” MoweryAward for her exemplary and extraordinary service to the Junior League of Little Rock.

* NBLSLC * 2022 Workshop Presenters

• Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins (Maryland)

• Leadership in Advancing Civil Rights • Ms. Irnande Altema

• How the mental health crisis is increasing in higher education and the influence on the work environment and the community.

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence

National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins

“Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins proudly represents the 20th Legislative District in the Maryland House of Delegates. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, she is dedicated to policy change that makes a difference in people’s lives. Delegate Wilkins serves as the Parliamentarian of the Maryland House of Delegates, responsible for upholding efficient, fair, and orderly procedures as the House conducts the business of the State. She is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which takes the lead on education, revenue, financial resources, and election law legislation. Within the Ways and Means Committee, she is Chair of the Subcommittee on Election Law, leading the House in passing election policy and expanding voter access, including Maryland’s permanent mail in ballot list, voting access for incarcerated individuals, and expansion of early voting sites.

Delegate Wilkins has championed and successfully passed legislation dealing with racial profiling and justice reform, maternal health, and increasing educational outcomes for all students. Delegate Wilkins serves as the Parliamentarian of the Maryland House of Delegates, responsible for upholding efficient, fair, and orderly procedures as the House conducts the business of the State. Delegate Wilkins was recently elected to Vice Chair of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, the largest Black Caucus in the nation.

Prior to being sworn into the House of Delegates, Delegate Wilkins was publicly elected as the District 20 representative to the Montgomery Democratic Party, where she mobilized thousands of voters and led countywide voter registration efforts. Professionally, she works full time as the Director of State and Local Government Affairs at The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights coalition. At The Leadership Conference, she has played lead roles in advocating for federal immigration reform, promoting educational equity, advancing criminal justice reform and protecting voting rights. Through her advocacy career, she has impacted federal and state policy across the nation.

Delegate Wilkins earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Delaware and a Master of Public Administration in Social Policy from the American University. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.”

Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Irnande Altema

Irnande Altema serves as Associate Vice President of Government and Business Affairs of the Maryland Independent College and University Association (MICUA). Irnande is a first generation college graduate of Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU). Irnande has remained involved with her alma mater on various committees and boards that improve the student experience and re engage alumni. After graduating from NDMU, Irnande continued her studies by earning both a Master of Science from Georgetown University and a law degree from Hofstra University.

She has a strong passion for higher education, and she knows first hand the tremendous support and exposure to various career opportunities that are afforded to students who attend independent institutions. Recently, Irnande served as the Policy Director of Special Populations at the Mental Health Association of Maryland. Prior to holding this position, Irnande was the Chief of Staff for Maryland State Senator Kathy Klausmeier and practiced civil litigation as an associate with the Law Office of Derek Challenger. She is admitted to both the Maryland State Bar and Maryland Federal Bar.

She founded FirstGenRISE to create a platform for first generation law students, graduates, and professionals navigating academia and the workplace. Also, Irnande is the author of “The Rise of a First Gen” which journeys the struggles and successes of a first generation American determined to rise: www.firstgenrise.com Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black

Legislative Staff Leadership Council

Ms. Shawna Williams

Shawna Williams is the Senior Manager of Government Relations for Reynolds American Prior to joining Reynolds, she served as the Executive Director for the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus and Chair of the African American Legislative Staff Coordination Committee for the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL)

Prior to becoming Executive Director, she was the Vice President of Public Relations and Administration for a North Carolina based mental health agency with offices in 5 cities in North Carolina and 2 in Louisiana She was Director of Internal Communications for Hanesbrands, Inc. (formerly Sara Lee Corporation) and Marketing Specialist for Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communication and Journalism from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and certification in Events Management from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Shawna is a seasoned professional with more than 15 years of experience in community relations, business communication, public and media relations, and event and project management; and more than 8 years in campaign management, public policy and government affairs

As an active participant in politics, she has also served as Chair of the Forsyth County Democratic Women, Delegate for the 12th Congressional District, Secretary of the 5th Congressional District Women and 3 terms on the NC Democratic Party State Executive Committee and precinct chair and vice chair As a consultant, she was campaign manager for several campaigns for the NC State House and Senate races, County Commissioner as well as a Judicial races

Since beginning her career, Shawna has amassed a wealth of experience in corporate communications, constituent services, public relations, project management, and government affairs experience as both a consultant and in house project manager and communications consultant

Congratulations to the members of The National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council Top 22 of 2022

Thank you to those who nominated exceptional legislative staff and thank you to the nominees. This is only the beginning.

Thank you to our sponsor

Shawna Williams

Top 22 of 2022 Staff Excellence * National Black Legislative Staff Leadership Council