2026-2027 Thursday Network Executive Leadership Council

Why are you running for this position?

As Thursday Network enters its 35th year in existence, it would be my honor to be re-elected as President of this great organization.

This is a time of celebration for Thursday Network, and expansion and growth for GWUL as leadership changes hands. Internally, we are in season of reimagining what these organizations look like.

However, national and local political landscape continues to pose unprecedented challenges for our communities. I look forward to deepening our relationships with other likeminded organizations to support and advocate those in need through this time.

I have the experience, organizational and management skills, and expansive thinking to support the initiatives of GWUL and Thursday Network. In my experience as a political fundraiser and public policy manager, I have honed my ability to connect people and resources, and forecast and engage in public policy. These skills directly translate to the President's role as liaison for Thursday Network and GWUL, NULYP, and other partners in The Movement.

It is true that Thursday Network exists as a bellwether for National Urban League Young Professionals. Our affiliate relationship is stuff of legend. Our energy, operations, and consistency are what make other NULYP chapters and other organizations look to us for partnership and inspiration. As we continue to expand what TN can do and how we show up and how we advocate, it would be my honor to serve another year as your President.

Qualifications

Experience is the name of the game. And I am grateful to be able to pull from a depth of experience in Thursday Network and National Urban League Young Professionals.

Being President of a NULYP chapter is a unique experience. My job is be the voice for Thursday Network at the table with our governing organizations, be that GWUL, NULYP, or NUL. I have been able to build relationships with the NULYP ELT, presidents across the country, and NUL affiliate staff. I also have a deep working relationship with the Interim President and CEO of GWUL, as well as the GWUL GUILD President. These personal relationships will be necessary as we expand what TN is able to do and who we are able to serve.

Serving as Vice-President afforded me a different level of understanding of the time commitment, resources, and support Chairs and committees will need to be successful.

Prior to serving as Vice-President, I served for two years as fund development chair following a 3 year vacancy of the position. I also have a host of social and political connections with organizations in and around DC that I am willing to leverage in support of our goals.

Initiatives

The President is responsible for bridging Thursday Network and GWUL, and TN and NULYP. I want to make sure that this vin diagram becomes a circle in support of those we serve. I am committed to seeing that our programming and partnerships arm our members and broader community with information they need to be successful contributors in all areas of the Urban League.

Some initiatives I would like to implement include:

- A greater emphasis on "Professional" in "Young Professionals," that would include a personal and professional development resource hub. Prioritizing intentional and impactful partnerships to support the organization and its members in terms of financial resources, networking opportunities, and career development programming.

- Deepening our connection with the GUILD and GWUL through joint advocacy and membership efforts, including the opportunity for a joint new member orientation.

- Create an "Advocacy In Action Program" that train members on how to testify in front of legislatures, fundraise for nonprofits, and more!

Time Commitment

As much as is required. Having held this role previously, I have an intimate understanding of what is required at the local and national level.

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

If elected as President, I want to leave the organization stronger and more connected than I found it. I want to support the iAdvisory Board in their role as the voice of TN on the GWUL board, and deepen our work as strategic partners with our affiliate. I want to work more closely with our sister chapters, particularly those at in the Eastern Region, to partner on leadership development and civic engagement opportunities to offset the economic and political uncertainties we're facing that are unique to this region.

Why are you running for this position?

I have spent the last two terms serving on the ELC, my first year as Treasurer and this past year as Vice President. During that time I was able to have a hands on role in numerous programs. I am seeking re-election as I now feel better prepared to lead the board in collaboration with the President. Supporting a full year of TN's initiatives has given me the information to plan a more productive term immediately after elections.

Qualifications

My TN experience includes serving as the interim for numerous positions at once and leading programs hosted by all of our committees. These experiences have given me the tools and insights to overcome and prevent challenges. I have served on volunteer boards in some from since I was 19 years old and in my day job I manage investment assets owned by nonprofits. I have a thorough understanding of the operations of mission based organizations.

Initiatives

If elected to Vice President again I would take a more thoughtful approach to managing the responsibilities of vacant roles. It may be the case that we ask a committee chair to support the programming of a vacant chair where it makes sense, or if it is an area where they have a skillset or interest. This will improve the quality of Thursday Network programs while allowing ELC members to expand their scope and grow new skills. I would challenge every chair to rethink their workflows and look for ways to revamp every single program, especially the events we've been doing for some time. Can General Body Meetings be restructured to provide a greater spotlight on the membership? Can we introduce a brief program into Food Pantry to highlight a new partnership?

Time Commitment

10-20 hours a week

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

I would hope to serve as a resource for all of the ELC members, supporting all of their programming in whatever way I can taking ideas from their infancy to a fully executed program. GWUL is going through a transition and my hope is to utilize this opportunity to strengthen the partnership with the affiliate. One of the primary ways I intend to to do this is by informing TN membership of GWUL initiatives and programming as part of our monthly General Body Meetings. In the same vein I would encourage the membership to participate in programming hosted by other eastern region YP chapters and set a goal of partnering with at least 4 chapters during the term.

Why are you running for this position?

Thursday Network has poured so much into my personal and professional growth. Running for Treasurer is my opportunity to give back by using my financial expertise to help strengthen the organization that has invested in me and so many others.

Qualifications

I bring over 10 years of corporate accounting experience in budgeting, financial reporting, controls, and compliance. I'm committed to transparency, accountability, and ensuring every dollar supports Thursday Network's mission.

Initiatives

The initiatives I plan to implement are to strengthen financial planning, support fundraising efforts, identify new revenue opportunities, and provide transparent reporting to ensure Thursday Network has the resources to grow and expand its impact.

Time Commitment

I can consistently dedicate the time required to fulfill the Treasurer's responsibilities, including Board meetings, financial oversight, planning, and supporting Thursday Network events and initiatives throughout the year.

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

I would use my time as Treasurer to equip young professionals with financial literacy and budgeting skills that support both personal and professional success.

Why are you running for this position?

I joined the Thursday Network out of a long held interest in civic engagement, a passion for social justice, and a desire to support the organizing efforts that drew me in a few years ago. I strongly believe now is the time for our membership to build upon the successes of our civic engagement program over the recent years. I wish to see us continue our voter registration, civic advocacy, voter education, partnerships, community dialogue, and other initiatives.

The moment we are in is rare. This November, D.C. will elect a new Mayor for the first time in over a decade. Montgomery County will elect a new County Executive for the first time in our current decade. Prince George's County will elect a new County Executive for a full term. All throughout the coverage area of the Greater Washington Urban League, the Thursday Network membership is poised to help shape the future of our communities. And this is not to mention the Congressional midterm and State elections in Maryland and in districts some of us have moved to this area from.

My reason for running is simple: we have an opportunity to build together, stay engaged, bring more people into our efforts, and organize for better policies and a future that better serves the interests of the young professionals in our movement. If you give me the honor of serving as your Civic Engagement Chair for the 2026 - 2027 term, I plan to do my best to ensure we meet this opportunity and equip our membership with the support to do so.

Qualifications

I am a public servant by trade and by practice. I am passionate about public service, and have spent the bulk of my career in government. Currently I serve in Prince George's County Government as a Communications Manager focused on promoting equity and diversity in contracting for minority, local, and small businesses. Previously, I worked in the State of Maryland on digital equity initiatives and the U.S. Commerce Department advancing digital equity and broadband access through grant programs. My experiences have given me a first hand look at the ways in which government, whether through policy or administration, shapes outcomes. And how there are opportunities for people to shape what their government does - if we know when and how to get involved.

In terms of the Thursday Network, I have served in two leadership roles. I served as Parliamentarian and Chair of the Policies & Procedures Committee for the 2025 - 2026 term. Prior to that, I served as Deputy Civic Engagement Chair in 2025. Throughout my time in TN, I have been an active member of the Civic Engagement Committee. In addition to supporting our organization's governance through policy and procedure, I have consistently grown my own civic efforts. Throughout my time in TN, I have been an active member of the Civic Engagement Committee. I have rallied with our affiliate/the NUL. I became certified to register voters. I became an Election Judge and worked the polls while in TN. I sat in my locality's meetings after joining this organization. I created our GOTV page. After serving in the committee during the past three terms, I know this committee's function, its successes, challenges, opportunities for growth, members, and the ways in which it connects us to the vision of the Thursday Network, our affiliate, and the National Urban League.

Lastly, my academic background lends itself to this position. I hold a Master's in Public Administration, and earned my Bachelor's in Media Studies and Public Policy. Policy, government, and civics are not unfamiliar territory for me.

I believe all of these experiences are what uniquely qualifies me to support our members as we continue to invite people to become more civically engaged in D.C., Prince George's, and Montgomery County.

Initiatives

If elected, I aim to focus on civic education, voter engagement/registration, advocacy skill building, promoting greater involvement in local (City & County) decision-processes and boards, expanding our presence in Prince George's & Montgomery County, and strengthening our advocacy partnership & connection with the GWUL.

I plan to continue the Civic Corner, providing our membership with updates, actions, and news in DC, MD, and VA. I am interested in doing more to educate those outside of TN as well, particularly about how the government functions at a local level and where they should go to address issues of concern to them or their neighbors.

I plan to update our webpage with more information, both for the General Election and with more useful resources for our members and the public.

As a Maryland resident that has lived in Montgomery and Prince George's County, I especially seek to reach more people in both jurisdictions in as many ways as we can. I am hopeful for a future where we help get more young people not just out to vote, but also to participate more at the municipal and County level.

Time Commitment

10 - 20 hours per month

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

The goal is to make our voices heard. To see our voices truly make a difference in our lives and the lives of those we care about. To see our livelihoods and the quality of life for those in our communities improve. I would use my role to encourage and support Thursday Network members to have the space, know-how, and confidence in taking the steps to make that difference in our communities. I would use it to organize our membership to continue and deepen our efforts to activate voters and mobilize citizens to influence our governments. Most importantly, I plan to maintain the Thursday Network as a trusted partner, reliable source, and a community-centered space for young professionals committed to social justice, equity, and

As an auxiliary under the Greater Washington Urban League, it is essential to maintain and grow our bond with our affiliate. If elected, I will use my role to connect our membership with the GWUL and organize our advocacy in partnership. In an ideal future, we would move as if it were two paddles pushing our boat in the same direction.

Lastly, I intend to participate frequently in connection with the National Urban League Young Professionals. Our efforts are not singular or even fully unique just to the DMV. There is opportunity to learn, grow, and share with both chapters across the county and with our national leadership including the National Advocacy Chair. I am interested in mutual sharing of time and talent, as well as amplifying our collective efforts. By taking a collaborative approach, I would foster space to enhance the Thursday Network's civic engagement program and share that with the NULYP.

Why are you running for this position?

Serving as Community Service Events Chair during the 2025-2026 term has been one of the most rewarding leadership experiences I've had in Thursday Network. It's been incredible to see members come together to serve our community while also building genuine connections with one another. Running for a second term allows me to build on what we've started, strengthen the partnerships we've created, and introduce new ways for members to use their talents and passions to give back. I want community service to be something our members genuinely enjoy while making a difference in our communities.

Qualifications

Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to plan and coordinate service events with nonprofit partners across the DMV while working alongside our Executive Leadership Council and Community Service Committee. Through that experience, I've learned what works well, where we can grow, and how important communication, organization, and flexibility are to executing successful events. Professionally, I manage projects in the federal government, and I've been able to bring those planning and organizational skills into this role. Beyond the logistics, I care deeply about creating opportunities where members can give back in ways that are both purposeful and fulfilling.

Initiatives

I would love to focus on skills-based community service. Our members have a wide range of talents and expertise that we can use for the greater good of our communities. I'd love to explore ways for members to share what they know through educational and creative activities, public speaking, and other forms of service.

We have historically done a great job of collaborating with community partners in a variety of capacities. Building on that foundation, my goal for the upcoming term is to create a balanced calendar that combines traditional volunteerism with opportunities for members to use their professional expertise in service to others.

Time Commitment

I can consistently dedicate the time needed to effectively serve in this role, including committee meetings, event planning, partner outreach, and both weekday and weekend service events. I've successfully balanced these responsibilities over the past year and remain committed to continuing that level of engagement.

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

I would use this role to continue strengthening Thursday Network's reputation as a reliable community partner while supporting the missions of the Greater Washington Urban League and the National Urban League Young Professionals. By creating thoughtful volunteer experiences and encouraging members to step into leadership roles, I hope to increase participation, build lasting partnerships, and maintain Thursday Network's standing as an organization known for service and community involvement.

Why are you running for this position?

I am runningng for this position to continue my work from the prior term, and expand Thursday Networks reach with LGBTQ community within the district.

Qualifications

My prior term as Pride of the Movement chair, and my professional experince working with the district gives me insight to partners within DC, member needs and how to execute in the upcoming term.

Initiatives

Expand Community Partnerships

Increase committee participation and Thursday Network POTM Events

Cross partnerships with other committees in Thursday Network

Time Commitment

I can committ 20 hours per month to the position, including committee meetings, executive meetings, and service events, etc.

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

I would use my role to expand out partnerships throughout the district, contain more

Why are you running for this position?

Hello TN! I'm running for the Public Relations Digital Media position because as the 2025-2026 Membership Services Chair, my focus has been to tell the story of Thursday Network to prospective members while fostering meaningful connections within our membership. Serving in this new capacity would allow me to take that mission a little further by sharing our story with the broader community. Thursday Network does incredible, hands-on work that creates real impact, and I would be honored to use media as a vessel to showcase that work and our movement to external audiences.

Qualifications

My degree in Business Marketing, my history of being a self-taught visual artist and graphic designer, as well as my general admiration for all art mediums make me uniquely qualified for this position. If given the honor of serving in this capacity, I hope to dust off my creative bug for the betterment of the organization.

Being the Membership Services Chair gave me a better understanding of our members, our culture, and how to keep people engaged. I constantly listened to member feedback and can use that insight to create authentic content that highlights our members and tells our story which strengthens engagement.

Initiatives

I plan to continue the excellent work of our previous PR Media Chairs and do my best to provide TN, up-to-date graphics that promote and highlight our chapter. I also would love to encourage more engagement with our current socials via live coverage at events, and utilize our existing TikTok page to reach broader audiences.

Time Commitment

4hr/week

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

The PR Digital Media position is more than just managing content; it is shaping how Thursday Network is seen and remembered. If selected, I will use this role to amplify our impact by telling authentic stories, celebrating our members, and showcasing the work we do in the community. Every post and campaign will reflect the excellence of TN while strengthening the brand and mission of the Greater Washington Urban League and the National Urban League Young Professionals, because how we represent ourselves represents us all.

Why are you running for this position?

I am running for Social and Cultural Chair because I believe the strongest professional networks are built on genuine connection, and thoughtful events are how that connection happens. Bringing people together to network, celebrate our culture, and simply enjoy each other's company creates the kind of community that keeps members engaged. I love designing experiences that give people a reason to show up, and I take pride in handling the details that make an event feel effortless for everyone attending.

Qualifications

Even though I am a newer member, I hit the ground running by planning the social events following our June and July General Body Meetings. Beyond Thursday Network, I have planned and managed events across many settings, from my high school reunion and Galentine's parties to professional career fairs, so I am comfortable handling everything from the atmosphere to the budget, promotion, and logistics. What sets me apart is that I design each event around its target audience, not a one size fits all formula. I bring both the creative energy to create memorable gatherings and the organizational follow through to make sure they actually come together.

Initiatives

If selected, I would implement a seasonal series, Scoops & Social in the fall and Cocoa & Conversations in the winter. These initiatives would be designed for both current and prospective members of Thursday Network, allowing for connection and conversation around the organization. Each gathering deepens the bonds among current members while giving prospective members an authentic understanding of who Thursday Network is and what it stands for.

Time Commitment

I can commit to spend 5-10 hours per week to this position and more for major events.

Impact on Thursday Network, GWUL, and NULYP

If selected as the Social and Cultural Chair, I would build a consistent calendar of cultural and social events that bring members together and strengthen connections across Thursday Network. By keeping members engaged and invested, I would help sustain an active body of young professionals that supports the Greater Washington Urban League's presence and mission in the community. By holding every event to a high standard, I would position Thursday Network as a model chapter within the National Urban League Young Professionals and set an example other chapters can look to.