Meet the October 2022 Endorsement Class!
Run for Something is proud to announce our October endorsement class, the latest cohort of changemakers ready to meet this pivotal moment in our nation’s history. This month’s 47 endorsees bring us just shy of our original 2022 goal of 700 future leaders nationwide before the end of the year!
Learn more about our October endorsement class below:
2022 Endorsees
ARKANSAS
Rogers City Council
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Vonnice is a mom, wife, doctoral candidate, ordained minister, and entrepreneur. She has lived in NW Arkansas for seven years. She is the daughter of a single Black mother, who raised her to be a strong Black woman and to treat people with respect.
She is grateful to live in and raise her family in Rogers. By many accounts, she should have been a product of her upbringing — living in poverty, relying on WIC, surrounded by violent crime, and struggling in a single parent household. Living in Northwest Arkansas has afforded Vonnice and her family more opportunities, and she wants to pay that forward by making the community better.
Vonnice is a changemaker and wants to represent the parts of the community that aren’t being served. She wants to be the voice for those whose voices aren’t being heard. She wants to support more housing options so that everyone can have access to good homes, extend resources such as the Rogers Activity Center and Senior Center, and create a diversity and inclusion board.
Vonnice is honored to have been nominated as one of the 50 most influential leaders in Arkansas in 2022 by Arkansas Money and Politics. She was inducted in the 2021 40 Under Forty cohort. She is a Black woman who is a force to be reckoned with, and she will stand to make change, friends, and history in Rogers.
Bentonville School Board, Zone 5
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Letisha is a small business owner, professional, creative, advocate, and most importantly, a mother to a Bentonville Student. She is running for Bentonville School board because she cares about her community and wants to represent the best that Bentonville has to offer. Coming from a small town, Letisha knows that equal access to a quality education can create endless opportunity. She wants to ensure students, teachers, staff, and community are supported, equally represented, and given the best opportunity to thrive as Bentonville continues to grow.
From bus driver shortages to teacher pay, Letisha will address the issues that are affecting Bentonville now and as it continues to grow. She will be an advocate for equity and meeting people where they are because equity is meeting people exactly where they are. Letisha’s unique perspective, business background, and creative mindset is exactly what the Bentonville School Board needs as it enters the next five years.
Ragan Hensley
Bentonville City Council, Ward 2, Position 1
Election Date: November 8, 2022
A native Arkansan, Ragan is a mom to two energetic boys — Knox and Lincoln. She has lived in Northwest Arkansas for fifteen years and holds a master’s degree in communication from the University of Arkansas. She is a business leader at a Fortune 1 company, who has worked in marketing and merchandising. She loves cooking, travel, weekends on the lake, live music, and biking Northwest Arkansas’ trails with her two boys. She believes that Bentonville is the best place in the country to live, work, and raise children. She is committed to making sure that as Bentonville grows into a cultural and outdoor center of the region, responsible growth, accessible housing, safety, and inclusion remain core values.
Arkansas Senate, District 13
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Allison is a mother of two, licensed social worker, and lifelong Arkansan running in the state’s most competitive legislative race. Her priorities include improving schools to provide an outstanding education for every child in Arkansas, increasing access to mental health services, and reforming the foster care system.
Allison’s family’s restaurant is located in her district, and it has served home-cooked meals to members of the community for almost fifty years. Being raised in a small business family meant hard work was necessary to make ends meet. It is these values, as well as the knowledge and skills of managing a team, balancing a budget, and the importance of community that Allison will take with her into the state senate.
Working in pediatric clinical social work gives Allison a unique and well-informed perspective on her legislative priorities. Allison knows firsthand how families in Arkansas are facing more hardship than ever trying to access mental health services. This also puts her at the forefront of the issues facing the state’s education system, which is in crisis. Finally, her work with kids and families in the foster care system has given her the experience needed to address the problems the system faces from top to bottom, which will impact the lives of all Arkansans.
Allison’s commitment to the children of Arkansas is evident and action-driven. Her work as a state senator will always prioritize creating a bright future for kids.
CALIFORNIA
Tiburon Fire Protection District
Election Date: November 8, 2022
As the son of a volunteer firefighter and a career civil servant, public service has always been part of who John is. After 9/11, John volunteered to join the Air Force and served eight years as an intelligence officer (Captain), including service in Afghanistan. He used his GI Bill benefits to earn a JD and MBA from Stanford University and is now an attorney working to develop new renewable energy projects.
John is running to join the Tiburon Fire Protection District Board to protect the community for future generations. Climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires each year, and there is more that can be done to protect homes and the community. John is committed to improving emergency preparedness by using best practices from across the country, being a responsible steward of taxpayer money, and representing the community’s values (including diversity and sustainability).
John is grateful to be the only candidate in this race endorsed by Marin Professional Firefighters (IAFF Local 1775), the Marin County Democratic Party, and the North Bay Labor Council (AFL-CIO).
Bonita Unified School District, At-large
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Brittany believes in empowering education — this means educators are empowered in their workplace, families are empowered to be actively engaged, and students are empowered as partners in their educational journey. She seeks to expand student opportunities through Career and Technical Education (CTE), dual-enrollment, language immersion programs, and increased support for students with special needs. She would also like to improve the health and wellness on campuses with increased support for students, practical tools to manage stress and anxiety, and proactive measures to cultivate connection on campus. Brittany will engage families with intentionality, supporting their involvement in their children’s education to the fullest capacity. Educators keep the district strong, and she will support and celebrate them every step of the way. As a nonprofit executive, Brittany understands the value of community partnership and the role of the board in maintaining fiscal balance. As a PTA member and through district-wide leadership roles as Vice President of the local Educational Foundation and member of the superintendent’s Parent Advisory Committee, Brittany is aware of district-wide issues and will continue to work to develop solutions. Brittany believes that by working together, the district can meet the needs of every student.
San Ramon Valley Unified School District, Area 1
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jerome is running to become a trustee for Area 1 on the Board of Education for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District — home of the elementary, middle, and high schools that both Jerome and his wife attended. A longtime volunteer for the SRVUSD, Jerome served from 2015 through 2021 on the SRVUSD Facilities Oversight & Advisory Committee, including more than three years as chair. This committee ensures transparency for taxpayers in spending on school campus construction projects and provides recommendations to district leaders on project designs to deliver the promise of the school bond enacted by voters. Jerome and his wife and son currently reside in Alamo, California, and their son will be a student in the district.
As an attorney primarily working with businesses, Jerome possesses a deep understanding of budgetary issues the district faces to provide a safe, supportive learning environment for parents, teachers, and students at all SRVUSD schools. With this experience, Jerome also will know how to support educational needs of teachers and students as well as collaborate with parents and the community to ensure all schools maintain longtime traditions of excellence as well as build on that excellence.
Novato City Council, District 2
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Born in Marin County, Rachel moved to Novato in 2007, working with the small business community. Rachel fell in love with the town, its people, and the beautiful landscape. Rachel married Colm, an Irish immigrant, at Stonetree Golf Course in Novato, and they decided this was where they wanted to raise their family. They have two children, Ethan and Amelia, a dog, Trixie, and a cat, Tina.
Rachel will bring a strong work ethic to the city council. In 2020, Rachel was appointed to the Planning Commission, where she asked probing questions, was elected chair, and supported the environment. The Board of Supervisors appointed Rachel to the Mental Health Board, where she has served six years as a member and two and a half years as chair. Rachel authored a resolution that passed with a 5–0 vote and advocated for converting the Mental Health Board to a Behavioral Health Board that would help individuals with co-occurring disorders. Rachel has developed a reputation for getting things done in government, and people like working with her.
Santa Ana City Council, Ward 6
Election Date: November 8, 2022
The son of working-class parents, Manny is a proud product of local schools. He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary, Mater Dei, and graduated from Middle College High School. While attending Santa Ana Community College, Manny worked at the Santa Ana Public Library and as a machinist at ADAPT Automation with his father. Through hard work and perseverance, Manny transferred and earned a BA in history from UC Berkeley. He continued his studies and completed a master’s degree in library & information science from UCLA in 2014.
Manny worked his way through school and spent his career preserving the city’s history and working with community members to improve its future. In 2015, he was recognized by the Library Journal for his work with the Teen Community Historian program for collecting, preserving, and sharing Santa Ana’s history. He was then recruited to work for the planning department and completed a master’s degree in urban & regional planning from UCLA in 2018, while working full time. In 2019, Manny focused on addressing the policy issues that were impacting Santa Ana residents. He used his knowledge and skill to help researchers study the sources of lead pollution, provided continuing support to local artists, and supported policy initiatives that help improve the quality of life for all residents in the city. He served as a city representative on the Santa Ana Arts & Cultural Master Plan, Arts and Culture Commission, and was a policy aide for Mayor Vicente Sarmiento.
Kevin T. Hayakawa
Rowland Heights School Board, Trustee Area 5
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Born and raised in Rowland Heights, Dr. Hayakawa is a proud International baccalaureate alumnus of John A. Rowland High School. He graduated from UC Berkeley with a double major in physics and astrophysics. Dr. Hayakawa holds a Ph.D. in astronomy and astrophysics from UCLA. He has 7+ years of teaching experience in physics and astronomy in all three public systems of higher education in California: University of California, California State University (CSU), and California Community Colleges. Dr. Hayakawa exclusively attended elementary, middle, and high school within Trustee Area 5 — at Ybarra Academy, Telesis Academy, and Rowland High School. He can bring a unique former student perspective to the Rowland Unified School District Board of Education. It’s time to finally elect a school board member who attended local public schools in the 21st century.
As a CSU physics professor with firsthand experience teaching on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Hayakawa understands the severity of learning loss students have gone through over the past two and a half years. He will be a champion for social justice, climate justice, and reproductive justice. As a local elected water board member, Dr. Hayakawa is proud to have saved ratepayers $10 million through smart and strategic bond refinancing and passed two $40+ million balanced budgets with surpluses two years in a row.
Oakland School Board, District 6
Election Date: November 8, 2022
As a Latina and Asian woman and the only former teacher running for this position, Kyra has dedicated her career to Oakland kids: as a classroom teacher at Horace Mann Elementary and as Deputy Director of Education — working to solve four large problems: early childhood education, college access, the digital divide, and the lack of affordable housing for teachers — and now as an appointed school board member.
It is a make or break time for Oakland students, families, and educators. Oakland has the opportunity to become the model for how to make decisions well and get through the difficult moment the community is in now. There is an opportunity to refocus time, energy, and resources on students, to get the budget in a long-term stable place, and to rebuild trust that’s been shattered over the years so that Oakland students, families, and educators can thrive. Kyra is an equity-driven problem solver who will get that done. She will fight to make OUSD functional, responsive, and financially stable so all students, families, and educators succeed. East Oakland families deserve transparency and a seat at the table when difficult decisions are made. Oakland students deserve a champion who listens to them, puts their needs first, and finds new solutions.
Los Angeles City Council, District 11
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Erin was born and raised in Venice and attended public schools from kindergarten through law school. After graduating law school, Erin returned to Los Angeles and began representing low-income tenants facing eviction at the height of the foreclosure crisis. Erin later worked on large class actions, including on behalf of the United Farm Workers. In private practice, Erin has represented women who were sexually assaulted by a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy and children brutalized in the foster care system.
He is running to keep working people on the Westside, to create more affordable housing, push LA to 100% renewable energy by 2035, and address the housing and homelessness crisis with compassion and best use practices, not scapegoating and vitriol. Erin has served on the Venice Neighborhood Council and currently serves as a Commissioner for LA County’s Department of Beaches and Harbors. He still lives in Venice with his wife and 3-year-old son.
Erin is proud to have been endorsed by the LA Times, the LA County Democratic Party, Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, Sierra Club, State Senator Ben Allen, Assemblyperson Isaac Bryan, Councilmember Mike Bonin, LA County Young Democrats, Stonewall Democrats, Working Families Party, Sunrise Movement, Youth Climate Strike L.A., UNITE HERE, ILWU, Carpenters, and many others.
Newhall Governing Board, Trustee Area 2
Election Date: November 8, 2022
As an arts educator, Rachelle knows firsthand the transformative power of a holistic education that provides students with ample opportunities to explore their creativity and imaginations. Numerous studies show that arts programs can improve student success in other areas like academics, attendance, and behavior, and Rachelle has witnessed these improvements in her own classroom. She knows that cultivating curiosity early on sets students up for success later in life.
Combining her experiences as a product of Santa Clarita’s public schools, her dedication as a lifelong Santa Clarita resident, and her unique perspective as an educator, Rachelle is ready to bring students, parents, and teachers to the table with an innovative vision for the Newhall School District that ensures our community’s children are prepared for the future.
COLORADO
Avon Town Council
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Calyn is running for Avon Town Council to promote a sustainable future, build a stronger community, and help make life simple. Calyn is educated from Ripon College and studied environmental studies, communications, and political science. He was a NCAA DIII cross-country and indoor track and field athlete, executive board member of the student senate, Theta Chi Brother, FFA alumni member, and many more. Calyn’s first leadership role was serving on the 2014 service learning committees and two others at his local high school. From 2015 to 2019, Calyn served with Americorps as a member or volunteer with the Alumni Council. Calyn’s dedication and service with Americorps allowed him to achieve several state and national awards from the MN DNR Commissioner/Governor, MN State FFA Association, National FFA Association, MN DECA Association, and more.
Calyn would like to achieve many projects while holding office; he would like to establish a water and land initiative, composting initiative, and establish change in climate response plan. Additionally, Calyn is actively seeking methods to generate more revenue for the town, build more affordable housing buildings and options, and create a program for long term rentals. Lastly, Calyn is seeking to utilize the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) to mobilize the ticket process and provide live interactives of the buses movement, break ground with more 24/7 park and ride, utilize land for green or recreational space, and support working families with child care assistance.
Summit County Clerk & Recorder
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Stacey is a candidate for Summit County, Colorado Clerk & Recorder. As the County’s Chief Deputy Clerk & Recorder since 2017, she stands ready to serve starting on day one. With a B.S. from Michigan State University, in 2010 she moved to Summit County, prioritizing becoming a productive and friendly community member. After working for the Town of Frisco, she transferred to Summit County Government. Over the years, she has been promoted to oversee every division of the Clerk & Recorder’s Office. She is the only candidate who has obtained crucial professional certifications, including National and Statewide Election Administration designations from the Colorado Secretary of State and National Association of Election Officials. Additionally, she obtained an A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies from Colorado Mountain College to further her understanding of the law.
Whether renewing neighbors’ vehicle registrations, recording their home’s deed, filing their marriage license, or handing voters an “I Voted” sticker, Stacey and her team are there for the community. Gaining approval from the Board of County Commissioners in 2022, Stacey has coordinated the implementation of a forthcoming bilingual motor vehicle kiosk at the county’s busiest grocery store. Stacey hopes to continue safeguarding the conduct of elections and improving the delivery of Clerk & Recorder services. She is fortunate to call Frisco her home with her husband Rich and two dogs, Asher and Artie.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
DC Advisory Neighborhood Commission, District 2G04
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Steven is a community champion and advocate for working families and youth. He has experience serving his community through service, leadership, and coalition building. He’s running to represent ANC 2G04, a small but mighty neighborhood with an incredibly diverse community of residents, businesses, landmarks, and art.
Steven is fighting to make streets and alleys safer for children, families, individuals, and pets to enjoy. He also wants to focus on utilizing public and green space to bring the community together, better communicate what the ANC and Ward 2 Council Member are planning for his neighbors, and collaborate with relevant D.C. agencies to better support businesses and residents.
As an advocate for underserved youth and member of the LGBTQ community, Steven worked with the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. and SMYAL to secure $100,000 in annual funding to start SMYAL’s Clinical Services Department which offers free, affirming, mental healthcare to queer and trans youth in the District of Columbia. Steven lives with his husband, Rich, and dog, Brody, in Washington, D.C. and he is excited to continue serving his community and neighbors.
FLORIDA
Florida House, District 119
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Gabriel is a 22-year-old advocate and youth leader, who has dedicated the majority of his life to public and community service. Gabriel has logged over 10,000 hours of community service and is the founder and CEO of a nonprofit organization that helps pediatric cancer patients and their families. Politically active from a young age, Gabriel served as a Miami-Dade County Youth Commissioner for three years, advocating for the needs of his community at the local, state, and federal level.
Having interned in the U.S. Senate for two years writing legislative briefs and policy proposals, Gabriel understands that in order to solve problems and crises, the community must act boldly with multifaceted solutions. Gabriel is running for office to usher in a new era of representative government, one that is more interested in serving communities and addressing root causes of problems rather than kicking them down the line. From addressing the climate crisis, to making housing and healthcare affordable for everyday Floridians and stopping attacks on fundamental human rights, Gabriel is ready to take back the future and bring a new dawn to the Sunshine State.
Florida House, District 62
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Michele is the State Representative for Florida House District 70. Born and raised in Pinellas County, Michele is a widely respected civil rights attorney and social justice advocate. She is a trial attorney at Denmon Pearlman Law. Prior to joining Denmon Pearlman, Michele served as an assistant public defender and legislative aide. She earned her B.S. in political science and international affairs and M.S. in international affairs from Florida State University, and she earned her J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law. Prior to her election to the state house, Michele served as local counsel for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Fred G. Minnis Bar Association, and the NAACP. Michele and her wife, Bianca, live in St. Petersburg, Florida with their dogs.
Broward County School Board, District 6
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Steven will work to make schools better for students, teachers, staff, parents, and the community. He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Nova Southeastern University, but he began college at Drexel University, competing as a Division 1 wrestler. He had a career-ending injury that eventually brought him back to his high school as a wrestling coach. Working at Fort Lauderdale High School gave him first-hand experience of what happens daily in schools: teachers care and work hard to get their students across that graduation stage, parents struggling with the pressures of life, and students dealing with countless stresses.
His experience in the private sector, as a wrestling coach for diverse youth, and the knowledge gained through his master’s program in clinical mental health, makes him exceptionally qualified to understand the emotional, educational, and financial needs of the school district. He will be accessible, engaged, transparent, receptive, and respect everyone equally. Having been in the private sector with fiduciary responsibilities, he will be a financial watchdog and prevent fiscal irresponsibility. As a coach, he knows more must be done to improve schools.
Steven is invested in the Broward County community. It is his home, where he and his wife plan to raise their family.
GEORGIA
Roswell City Council, Post 1
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Sarah is proud to have called Roswell home for most of her life. A mother of two, who is dedicated to running her family’s local small business, Sarah is active in Roswell’s business community. She has represented North Fulton through various leadership positions within organizations such as Advance Atlanta, Abundant Housing Atlanta, the National Small Business Association, the Georgia Association of Environmental Professionals, and Roswell Inc.
Sarah is working towards a doctorate in environmental planning with a focus on city planning at the University of Georgia. She also holds an MBA from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Maryland. She has been a recognized voice at Roswell City Council meetings, where her advocacy has been featured on CBS46 news, WSB-TV, the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and the Alpharetta-Roswell Herald.
KENTUCKY
Kentucky House, District 25
Election Date: November 8, 2022
The youngest of eight children, Katherine Leonard is a Hardin County native and alumna of its public school system. Katherine holds degrees from Elizabethtown Community & Technical College and Eastern Kentucky University, and she works for a software services company based in Northern Kentucky which provides inventory management support to thousands of small businesses in the automotive recycling industry. Katherine also operates a small business of her own.
Elizabethtown and Hardin County are at a literal and figurative crossroads. At the intersection of a major north-south interstate and the east-west parkway system, Hardin County is on the precipice of becoming a major player in emerging technologies. The new EV battery plants coming to the area will lead to an explosion in growth that the local infrastructure isn’t ready to handle yet, and neither are many of the people who live here. People fear the unknown, and with change comes uncertainty.
As a good listener and proven problem solver, Katherine is the ideal representative to help lead the community through this transformation. Her love of research and ability to explain complex concepts in simpler terms will help assuage the concerns of her community, and she will work within the government to ensure the needs of the growing population are met. Government works best when it’s providing for the common good, and Katherine will be an empathetic and honest voice for Hardin Countians in Frankfort.
MAINE
Maine Senate, District 2
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Danielle lives in Presque Isle with her husband, John — a librarian — and their two young children. Having grown up in the Midwest and resided in several other regions, Danielle and her family knew the moment they discovered Northern Maine that it would be home.
Danielle has years of experience as an advocate in the communities she has lived in. Her most prominent achievements revolve around advocating for clean drinking water in New Jersey, serving as a lead for infant and early childhood mental health for a national non-profit, and educating parents about and advocating for K-12 students with disabilities in public schools. Danielle is running for Maine Senate District 2 (Southern Aroostook and Northern Penobscot). Danielle knows firsthand how legislation impacts families and individuals and will bring her advocacy efforts to Augusta to serve her region.
MARYLAND
Carroll County Maryland Board of Education
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Dr. Jozkowski is a licensed occupational therapist serving children, youth, and their families. She is a tenured associate professor of occupational therapy & occupational science at Towson University. She is a parent to three young children and an active volunteer in the southern Carroll County, MD community. Amanda served as a representative to the Washington State Board of Education as a high school student, and now she advises several local student leadership groups.
An educator raised by educators, Amanda knows the importance of supporting school system personnel and respecting them as the dedicated professionals they have trained to be. She will return focus to academic instruction in our schools and serve every child and family as she would her own. Amanda will work to create a culture of belonging within the schools, decrease bullying and school violence, and model inclusion at all levels — from classroom interactions to curriculum, to policy and advocacy. She has proven experience communicating effectively with local leaders and community partners. As a parent, healthcare practitioner, and researcher, Amanda aims to combine evidence and heart to inform decisions and discussions on the Board of Education. Amanda knows that common sense, collaboration, and commitment to community are the keys to effective leadership.
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts House, District Norfolk 9th
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Kevin is a municipal government leader with experience on the Norfolk Planning Board and B1 Zoning Committee. Currently, he is in his second term on the Select Board and second year on the Norfolk County Advisory Board.
In his time serving on the local and county level, he has driven core efforts related to transparency, resident engagement, strategic alignment, shared services, and multi-family affordable zoning. As a father of three in the elementary public school system, his platform includes a focus on education funding, specifically on early education expansion and child care costs. Other key areas of focus for his campaign are: access to critical mental health services, a modernized approach to housing development, protection of abortion rights, climate change policy to reduce emissions/update infrastructure, and advocacy for historically underfunded state program commitments.
MICHIGAN
Michigan House, District 28
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Rob is a father and Navy veteran, who comes from a long line of union members. He knows what it means to serve his country and care for the community’s educators.
Rob served in the United States Navy, completing two tours overseas. He continues to protect the country by serving in the Army National Guard.
Rob will focus on Michigan’s infrastructure, education, and unions. He wants to protect his constituency and ensure his constituents continue to have a choice on how they want to live their lives as Americans and Michiganders.
Michigan House, District 86
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Larry brings 15+ years of public service experience from his time serving in the U.S. Navy, starting a non-profit, and serving his community as a Spring Lake firefighter. He believes in the politics of progress and in working together to build a state and district everyone can be proud of.
As a public servant, Larry used these principles in his life and in his community to create change. As a state representative, he will continue working every day to do the same. As the son and grandson of hardworking folks from the South, Larry understands the challenges that working families from the 86th District face because he has lived them. Coming from a family of poverty-stricken Southern settlers in Chicago, he knows Michigan can be a place of promise for many seeking to achieve the American Dream and prosperity.
Larry wants to do more to ensure that all families have a fair chance to get ahead. For too long, politicians have put partisanship over people. The state government needs to prioritize working families and understand the community’s stories of struggle and success. In Lansing, he will be honored to lead and fight for his constituents, and he will advocate for change.
Spencer Calhoun
Mount Clemens School Board
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Spencer is a young change maker and community advocate with experience in fostering civic engagement in marginalized communities. As a trade school graduate, Spencer has seen firsthand how technical education and union partnerships create opportunities for students.
He is running to represent Mount Clemens Community School District, a district that services three municipalities and operates on a $16 million budget. On the school board, Spencer will fight for accountability, transparency, and to give residents a voice in their district’s future. Formerly homeless as a teenager, Spencer is proud to have coordinated multiple voter registration drives in Macomb County and to have received the Community Justice Award from Michigan United. Spencer looks forward to supporting the next generation of leaders.
Warren Consolidated School Board
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Kyle is an educator and theater professional by training and background, and he has masters degrees in both fields. With over six years of experience in the classroom, and a focus on leadership and development in his masters program, Kyle discovered early on that the change he wanted to see in education could not be accomplished from the classroom. As a father of a child with Down syndrome, Kyle has made it his mission to ensure that each and every marginalized child has access to the services and resources they deserve through their entire educational careers. His son, George, is why he does everything. To make sure that he, and others like him, can live in a world where they don’t have to advocate for themselves and just live their lives.
Michigan House, District 51
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Sarah is running because she believes in the right to safe abortion access, clean water, and mental healthcare. She is a life-long resident of Michigan’s 51st District, and she grew up in Highland and Milford, where she and her daughter are both proud graduates of Milford High School.
Sarah currently sits on the Citizens Advisory Committee for Oakland County’s Neighborhood and Housing Development, and she is a member of the Oakland Community Health Network Board. She has been a democratic precinct delegate in White Lake since 2018. When COVID-19 shut down Michigan bars and restaurants, she volunteered as the One Fair Wage Unemployment lead, helping tipped workers navigate Michigan’s UIA/PUA system.
She currently lives in White Lake with her husband, a firefighter in Hamtramc, and daughter, who has schizencephaly, hydrocephalus, and spastic quadraplegic cerebral palsy, using a power wheelchair to get around. They share their home with their dogs, cats, pigs, ducks, turkeys, and chickens.
MINNESOTA
Minnesota House, District 36B
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Brion is a former police officer and current human resources professional. She grew up in Centerville, Minnesota and has lived in District 36B for nearly 10 years with her wife, Brandi. Brion served as a Reserve Sergeant and 911 Dispatcher in White Bear Lake prior to becoming a Deputy Sheriff in Chisago County. She has also spent the last 20 years in nonprofit human services, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.
Public safety and support for our vulnerable neighbors are Brion’s passion areas, and she intends to work hard on these issues at the Minnesota State Capitol. Brion sees this election as a unique opportunity to break down political divides and work together on common goals. Everyone wants to be safe and healthy in thriving communities. This is an incredibly powerful place to begin meaningful conversations, and Brion will do just that. Her promise is to serve Minnesotans with the same honor, integrity, and humility that she swore to as a police officer. For Brion, serving as a state representative is a privilege. Though she no longer wears a badge, Brion looks forward to protecting her fellow Minnesotans through meaningful legislative action.
NEBRASKA
Nebraska Senate, District 18
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Michael is running as a BIPOC father, business owner, and taxpayer who has extensive experience in public, for-profit, and non-profit sectors. He wants to ensure that Nebraska is a welcoming place for all while continuing to create a stronger, more vibrant community where people feel that their voice is being heard. Michael was previously elected as the Vice-Chair of Metropolitan Community College of Nebraska and Chaired the Transit Authority of the City of Omaha.
Michael’s five pillar platform is centered on:
(1) Economic development, with a transit oriented design that will bring in revenue, use resources more efficiently, and allow the city to lower property taxes.
(2) Technology investments, by investing in expanded access to broadband across the state and to utilize technology to lower barriers between departments and processes, which reduces the painstaking amount of time it takes to get work done.
(3) Transparency through the use of town halls.
(4) Equity, by focusing on the causes of inequities in ever evolving communities and addressing challenges related to diversity and inclusion.
(5) Justice reform, by supporting sustainable employment with a minimum wage that is a living wage and supporting education and programs that alleviate community ailments that lower recidivism and provides access to mental health services.
NEW JERSEY
Voorhees School Board
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Julienne is a nonprofit consultant and attorney in private practice admitted in both New York and New Jersey. As a nonprofit consultant, Julienne is experienced in helping not-for-profit organizations manage their day-to-day operations, develop and implement long-term strategic plans, as well as support organizations’ advocacy, government relations, and grassroots organizing efforts. In her law practice Julienne provides transactional legal services to small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals.
Originally from New York City and the mother of four young children, Julienne moved to Voorhees with her husband in large part due to the strong reputation of the Voorhees public school system. Julienne is running for a seat on the Voorhees Board of Education because she believes a strong, evidence-based, comprehensive and inclusive public school education should be a fundamental right of every child and looks forward to bringing her experience, education, and passion for advocacy to the Voorhees Board of Education.
NEW YORK
Woodbury Town Council
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Rachel is a public servant and lifelong resident of Woodbury, running to serve and represent the community that raised her. Rachel is running to preserve the things we love about Woodbury, while also preparing for the future. For Rachel, this includes protecting our environment, improving transparency in government, growing programming through the parks and libraries, supporting first responders, and supporting small businesses, local economy, and the arts.
A former Policy Advisor for Economic Development and Housing for New York State, Rachel has supported and bolstered local economies statewide through major cross-agency initiatives. Rachel brings ten years of government experience, serving at the local, state, and federal levels. An award-winning labor organizer, Rachel is committed to fighting for working people.
Rachel comes from a proud union family. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College in 2018 where she studied regional planning, political science, and public policy. If elected, she will be the youngest woman to ever serve on the Woodbury Town Council.
TENNESSEE
Goodlettsville City Council, At-Large
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Jesse is running because he sees so much untapped opportunity for Goodlettsville. As a Tennessee native born and raised in the area, he will fearlessly focus on: attracting and supporting new and existing small businesses, increasing the quality of life through top-notch services and programs, and advancing smarter growth and long-term planning.
Drawing upon experiences in public action and legal tech, Jesse will deliver intelligent and efficient solutions to the city’s issues. He promises to be responsive and transparent to constituents who have questions, concerns, and ideas for the betterment of Goodlettsville. Jesse will offer a fresh perspective and voice to the opportunities and challenges facing the city.
TEXAS
Austin City Council, District 3
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Daniela is running for office because she is passionate about equity, justice, and a city that can maintain long-term sustainability. She has a calling to serve and is deeply concerned about the future of the city and the direction it is headed if housing, health, and environmental equity are not taken more seriously.
It is time elected officials not only have the academic and professional background necessary to do the job well, but the lived experiences required to approach social, political, and economic issues with nuance and empathy. She has the lived experiences that come with being a first-generation, millennial, queer woman, who is also Spanish-speaking, working class, and a renter.
Daniela is prepared to be the next city council member to represent District 3. She has a master’s degree and serves on the Hispanic/Latino Quality of Life Resource Advisory Commission, which prepares her for the policies that would be crossing her desk. She also has experience working with the government on the state, federal, and international level, and she has a history of organizing, activism, and advocacy in Austin, focused on food insecurity, gerrymandering, homelessness, and restorative justice.
WASHINGTON
Spokane County Board, District 1
Election Date: November 8, 2022
Chris is a fourth-generation Spokanite, proud union member, and state attorney focused on child safety. He is running because it’s time for new voices in county leadership. Chris believes in building a strong middle class and a region where all children and families can thrive. Chris will fight to expand apprenticeships to create a pipeline of good paying jobs, work for more affordable child care and accessible mental health and drug treatment, and he’ll lead on climate change to create a more sustainable future.
2023 Endorsees
COLORADO
Denver City Council, District 9
Election Date: April 4, 2023
Candi is a policy expert, social worker, community organizer, and the co-founder of Project VOYCE, Cross Community Coalition, and Tierra Colectiva/GES Land Trust. She is a proud fifth-generation native of northeast Denver and is the first LGBTQ Latina and first Democratic Socialist to serve on the Denver City Council. As an elected official, Candi successfully led the charge to divest from halfway houses run by private prison companies, co-sponsored the Eviction Defense Right to Counsel ordinance, and co-sponsored a charter amendment to bring balance between the branches of government when it comes to mayoral appointments. She has sparked many of Denver’s most exciting ideas from re-imagining policing, making the independent monitor truly independent, investing in cooperatives for a new economy, investing in historic businesses through a legacy business fund, participatory budgeting, modernizing the city’s community engagement and customer service practices, reforming neighborhood organizations to foster equity, campaign finance reform, and anti-displacement efforts. In 2020, Candi began convening a Food Desert Solutions stakeholder group that has since developed into the East Denver Food Sovereignty Initiative, and it is launching the first community-owned and sourced co-op grocery store in District 9. Candi has continued to be a fierce advocate for housing as a human right, food as a utility, environmental justice, and preservation/stabilization of Denver’s Black and Brown communities. Looking forward, she will continue to center the margins of society, and infuse city government with policy expertise, a lens for justice, and ancestral wisdom.
FLORIDA
Jacksonville City Council, At-Large, Group 2
Election Date: March 21, 2023
Joshua is a North Floridian, who made Jacksonville his forever home after falling in love with the people and community. It’s where he married his husband, Phillip, and where they plan to start a family. Raised with his two brothers in Tallahassee by a single mother, who often worked multiple jobs to provide for them, Joshua learned at an early age the meaning of a hard day’s work, and he plans to bring that same work ethic to serve his community on the Jacksonville City Council.
A non-profit professional, Joshua’s career reflects his values. He’s running for Jacksonville City Council At-Large, Group 2 because he believes in building a better future for young people, ensure every family has access to healthcare, promote equal opportunity for all, protect the environment, address the housing crisis, and improve the infrastructure system by refocusing the community’s attention on addressing the needs of the entire community.
Joshua believes in coming together, supporting the community, and returning the focus of local government back towards people. He is motivated by the same principles instilled in him by his family, encouraged by the fact that challenges are NOT insurmountable. It’s about serving the people and that by working together, the community can move Jacksonville forward.
ILLINOIS
Chicago Alderman, 46th Ward
Election Date: February 28, 2023
Marianne is a PhD scientist, a community leader, and a compassionate neighbor, running for City Council in Chicago’s 46th Ward. She has spent most of her career working in sustainability. She has developed materials for carbon capture in the laboratory, reviewed bill language on chemical safety at the federal level, and managed one of the largest energy efficiency programs in the Northern Illinois market. She hopes to use her background to increase climate change resilience at the city level.
Marianne is also heavily involved in the community, serving on boards at a local school, park, and social service, and as a block club president. She aspires to be 46th Ward Alderperson because she feels strongly that her diverse ward should be inclusive and accessible for all members of the community, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, or mental health status. Marianne is passionate about affordable housing and optimizing public transportation, including the Lake Shore Drive redesign plans.
Chicago Alderman, 21st Ward
Election Date: February 28, 2023
Ayana is a single mother and community organizer running to become the first Black Alderwoman in Chicago’s 21st ward. She was thrust into action after her child’s school experienced shootings three times last year.
Ayana believes in the power of the collective and, as Alderwoman, she plans to use her office as a conduit for change. She understands that violence is a multilayered struggle tied to poverty, and she works tirelessly to combat the root causes. She plans to rebuild the 21st ward through education funding, mental health expansion, infrastructure improvement, and comprehensive public safety.
Ayana currently serves as a community advocate for a member of congress and works with various community organizations. Most notably, she is an advisory board member of Hustle Mommies, an organization dedicated to uplifting mom entrepreneurs and supporting families who lost loved ones to gun violence.
Chicago Alderman, 18th Ward
Election Date: February 28, 2023
Heather is excited to run for 18th Ward Alderman! As a community organizer for over 20 years, she understands it is necessary to work with people to get the job done. Collaborative efforts from the community raise the community; therefore, it is time for the 18th Ward to be organized block by block and organization by organization to truly grow the community. After hearing from her neighbors, Heather is committed to developing residential and commercial infrastructure, advancing community resources for all ages, and community engaged public safety.
MISSOURI
Kansas City City Council, 4th District At Large
Primary Date: April 4, 2023; Election Date: June 20, 2023
Justin was born in the Northland of Kansas City and now lives downtown. His father was an elected official, and his mother ran a major non-profit in Kansas City. Justin grew up experiencing public service and knew serving Kansas City was going to be something he would do. Justin remembers what Kansas City used to be and the amazing city it has become, but Justin also recognizes the work left to be done. Justin was appointed to the LGBTQ Commission and took a nosedive into the political scene in Kansas City. He is ready to serve our amazing city into the next chapter. Justin often says, “no iteration of my future involved anything other than Kansas City. Kansas City is my home, and I intend to serve it well.”
NEW YORK
New York City Council, District 48
Primary Date: June 27, 2023; Election Date: November 7, 2023
Amber is a Jewish Orthodox single mother of two young boys, who has spent the last 20 years raising and allocating millions of dollars in resources for education, family services, special needs children, and combating hate crimes. She was awarded by the NY State Assembly for her successes in fighting hate, bigotry, and antisemitism. The community-engaged mom has also been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, and Politico for her efforts; including her fight for Jewish Women’s right to religious divorce and her support of a NY State Bill that would make coercive control a class E felony.
OHIO
Akron City Council, At-Large
Primary Date: May 2, 2023; Election Date: November 7, 2023
Fran is a fourth-generation Akronite and descendant of Akron rubber workers and plumbers. Fran is a former Akron Civil Rights Commissioner and a queer and progressive neighborhood organizer. They are running to make Akron just a bit easier to call home — to advocate for safe and affordable housing, Justice for Jayland Walker, basic human rights, and neighborhood reinvestment.
Fran organized alongside faith leaders, has been tear-gassed while protesting, worked with freedom fighters to advocate for justice, and has been vocal about the need for public participation in the policy and budget processes. Amid pandemic, gun violence, police brutality, and a local eviction crisis — Fran is stepping up to run a grassroots campaign centered on building long-term people power.
VIRGINIA
Prince William County Board of Supervisors, Occoquan District
Primary Date: June 13, 2023; Election Date: November 7, 2023
Supervisor Boddye is a young professional who has been fighting for better schools, equitable transit, and attainable healthcare for years. His background, coming from a low-income family and as a Georgetown graduate, imprinted him with the belief that investing in schools is the best way to uplift underserved communities.
Kenny is running for re-election as Occoquan District Supervisor because there is still work to be done. Although he has helped champion record investments in Prince William County schools, the second-largest school division in Virginia still has challenges to overcome. His work has brought more transit to his constituents, and he is working to get Metro extended to his community. Under his leadership, the county has set its first ever climate mitigation and resiliency goals, and now he wants to make sure they are met.
Kenny’s first term has helped put Prince William County on a path toward a brighter future, and he wants to win another term to keep that momentum going.
Virginia House, District 57
Primary Date: June 20, 2023; Election Date: November 7, 2023
Susanna is running in one of the most competitive districts in Virginia. As a graduate of the University of Virginia and Columbia University, she has worked as a nurse practitioner and public health expert, serving the greater Richmond area for over 15 years. During her career Susanna has served as the Lead Advanced Practice Provider for the VCU Division of Geriatrics, participated in the CMS Independence at home demonstration, and helped design, start, and run a medical home clinic for the most medically complex patients in Virginia. She intends to use her extensive experience maximizing state and local resources to best help those in need, and she understands the importance of every Virginian having access to quality affordable healthcare.
Susanna is a fierce advocate for reproductive health, women’s rights, and LGBTQIA rights. She feels strongly about gender equity, equality, and bodily autonomy. She has volunteered in many capacities to advance these issues, including lobbying and testifying at the General Assembly.
Susanna is a mother of two young children, Jack and Lila, and is a proud dog mom to their family dog Scout.
Virginia House, District 19
Primary Date: June 20, 2023; Election Date: November 7, 2023
Makya is a mother, a former FBI and CIA officer, and an equity advocate. She is running to represent the new 19th District encompassing portions of Prince William and Fairfax Counties in Virginia’s House of Delegates. In 2019, Makya fought to reform how African American history is taught in Virginia as the Parent Advocate of Governor Northam’s Commission on African American History Education. As President of the TJ Alumni Action Group, she led the admissions reform advocacy efforts for the nation’s #1 high school — Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Most recently, as a survivor of domestic violence, she authored House Bill 1351 (known as “Makya’s Law”) and advocated for the removal of the one-year waiting period that victims of domestic violence must wait to be granted a full divorce in Virginia.
A certified Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practitioner who led the development of the CIA’s first accessibility strategy, Makya seeks to ensure a more inclusive future where shared prosperity is achieved collectively. Her goal is to enhance access and opportunities for residents of the 19th House District — one of the most diverse districts in the nation — and to center equity in all of Virginia’s legislation. Removing barriers with regard to transportation, justice, and women’s health and safety are her top priorities. Makya is a 26-year resident of Woodbridge, Virginia, a small business owner, and a coalition-builder who believes that partnerships and creative problem-solving are keys to her community’s enhanced success. She lives with her three children and service dog.
