2018 Elections Candidates

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

I am running for the position of President to aid in the advancement of Thursday Network, GWUL, and the National Urban League as a whole. My goal is to expand our reach throughout the community through collaboration and support from the ELC and Thursday Network membership. I have served on the ELC for 2 years as the Community Service Programs Chair which allowed me to exercise and strengthen my leadership, organizational, and collaborative skills. While in undergrad, I successfully served as the president of the Black Emphasis Committee which is the largest Black student organization on campus of Indiana University. I am a current member of the Board of Directors for the Darrelle Revis Foundation and Heirs of Promise, a non-profit organization that houses and educates orphans in Jamaica. These roles have taught me to delegate, collaborate, fund raise, make game-time decisions, develop programs, and effectively communicate. Initiatives I would implement if elected would include programming with a strategic focus on youth empowerment, political advocacy (including recidivism and equity in education), and inclusive economic development. With this focus in mind, I would encourage the members of the ELC to create programming around these initiatives. I would use this role as a platform for empowerment. I would provide leadership, insight, and overall support to the ELC, Thursday Network Membership, and GWUL to implement innovative programming that will project our community toward financial independence, education, and equity while maintaining the pillars of the National Urban League. My vision is to become a louder voice for those that have been overlooked, overrun, and silenced.

Date of initial TN membership:

January 2016

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

July GBM, Karaoke, Food Pantry, Friendship Place Basket Making, Birthday Brunch, Goodie Girl Bag Packing Social

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• Community Service Committee (3 years)
• Community Service Programs Chair (2 years)

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• Baltimore 2016
• WMY- Atlanta 2016
• LPC-DC 2016-2018
• Leadership Retreat- Atlantic City 2017

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

I currently serve in the following capacities:

• Thursday Network- Community Service Programs Chair- Annual community service programming for GWUL and TN

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• NAACP- Advocacy Committee member- developing programming focusing on advocacy

Provide a biographical sketch

A native of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, Kristin Shymoniak is the Community Service Programs Chair for the Thursday Network, the young professionals auxiliary of the Greater Washington Urban League. Kristin has dedicated her life to serving her community. Some of her community activism efforts include being the coordinator Empowerment Academy, an after-school program for middle school students in the Greater Washington area that focuses on empowering students through lessons on health, education, activism, and social justice; developing a food pantry to feed local families; and coordinating a male mentoring program for at risk youth in Rockville, Maryland. Kristin also coordinates the Young Blacks Give Back which is a month-long community service and fundraising initiative for young Black professionals and high school students. In addition to being a community leader, Kristin is an educator. She received her Masters degree in Special Education with a specialization in autism from the University of Pittsburgh. She is currently an elementary lead special education teacher in Virginia. Kristin is the 2017 AASA and The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's Women in School Leadership Award recipient. While on summer break, Kristin teaches in Montego Bay, Jamaica and conducts professional development training for school personnel on how to implement best practices when working with students with special needs.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

I currently serve as the Secretary for Thursday Network and would like another opportunity to grow as a young professional and contribute to the organization on a leadership level. I am committed and passionate about The Movement and have shown this since I joined Thursday Network in 2016. I would like to continue to support the other board members in multiple capacities as I have done so far. I also want to continue my push of member engagement and retention. I am can continue to commit the necessary time needed to fulfill this role as well as any additional time for special programming and events.

Date of initial TN membership:

September 2016

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

Food Pantry, Scholarship Fundraisers (Karaoke and Happy Hour), Gala Planning Committee, NDoS, NDoE, MLK Blanket and Toiletry drive

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

Active member and event planner for CS, SC, FD, PPD, PR, Membership.

• Community Service Committee (3 years)
• Community Service Programs Chair (2 years)

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• LPC 2017 & 2018
• WMY 2017
• NUL 2017

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• Michigan State Black Alumni Chapter-Social Co Chair: responsible for planning social events for membership to increase participation and promote member retention.
• Joyful Food Market Market- Coordinator and Volunteer: responsible for serving as point of contact for SE Elementary's monthly markets and ensuring information is communicated to families and is well attended, also volunteer for community markets in the summer
• Therapy Dogs International- Pet Therapy Volunteer: responsible for providing ongoing visits with my dog Hershey to provide emotional comfort to those in need, currently volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House
• DC Snow Hero-Volunteer: assists senior citizens in the DC area by shoveling snow during the winter season via the Mayor's Office on Volunteerism

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

MSU Black Graduate Association- Recording Secretary, Student Alumni Association- Secretary: responsible for keeping accurate meeting minutes to share with board and membership, also responsible for sharing the meeting agenda prior to meetings

Provide a biographical sketch

Melissa Gomes was born and raised in Rhode Island and is a first generation Cape Verdean American. Her family originates from the Cape Verde Islands off the west coast of Africa. She has obtained degrees from the University of Rhode Island as well as Michigan State University. She currently works as a Student Support Staff Team Coordinator at a charter school in Southeast DC and is responsible for facilitating the intervention process for students who have academic, behavior and attendance concerns.

She has a passion for working with youth and community service but also expresses interest in animal welfare. In addition to volunteering with Thursday Network, she has spent the past 5 years as a Pet Therapy Volunteer with her poodle, Hershey. She also volunteers with different organizations feeding the homeless and assisting the elderly. She joined Thursday Network in September 2016 and was honored with the Member of the Month award within 6 weeks of joining the organization. In July 2017 she was honored with the Distinguished Young Professional award by the NULYP. Most recently in September 2017 she was recognized by Thursday Network as their Volunteer of the Year.

Melissa has a tremendous love of sports and competition. She currently plays football and volleyball recreationally but has also played kickball, basketball and field hockey. She has also coached middle school girls in basketball and volleyball. In her spare time, she also likes to dance and has learned kizomba, salsa, bachata, merengue, Detroit ballroom and Chicago Style Stepping. She also enjoys solo international trips.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

The role of the Treasurer is to ensure that the funds owned by the organization are properly received, properly recorded and properly spent. Ensuring this is done correctly is what will allow the network to fulfill our mission. People don't give to organizations they don't trust to manage their money.

I have been blessed to serve in a number of leadership capacities during my volunteer work overseeing finances. This includes as a member of the California Conference of the NAACP's Audit Committee, Assistant Treasurer of the NAACP of Prince George's County, Vice Chair of that branches Finance Committee and Chair of the Audit Committee. I currently serve as Vice President of Finance for the Young Education Professionals of DC.

Date of initial TN membership:

February 2016

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

• July General Body Meeting
• May General Body Meeting
• May Membership Committee Meeting
• Legislative Policy Mixer
• April Membership Committee Meeting

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

Active member and event planner for CS, SC, FD, PPD, PR, Membership.

• Community Service Committee (3 years)
• Community Service Programs Chair (2 years)

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• Membership Committee (2 Years)

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• President, Young Democrats of Maryland
• Vice President - Finance, YEP DC
• Young Black Educators, Convener

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• Town of Fairmount Heights Economic Development Committee Member Help to plan policy to improve our economic development outlook.
• NAACP of Prince George's County Assistant Treasurer Serve on the Finance and Audit Committees
• First Book DC Secretary

Provide a biographical sketch

Born in Southern California, Joseph grew up in the Central Valley raised by his mother. When Joseph was in junior high school the country was dealing with a string of school shootings. California was also going through a violent crime wave. With a group of friends, Joseph founded the United Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) of Fresno City, one of the largest chapters of the National SAVE organization based out of North Carolina. It would be the kick off of a lifelong commitment to organizing and community activism.

In 2005 Joseph accepted an offer to come to DC and become a teacher. For the last decade he has worked in communities all over DC and the Maryland suburbs as well as Baltimore to improve the lives of young people. Outside of the classroom Joseph founded the Young Black Educators (YBE), a network of teachers, administrators and other education advocates committed to recruiting and retaining other young people of color to the classroom.

Joseph has served as a member of the NAACP’s Executive Committee in California and Prince George’s County, MD. He is a Vice President of the Young Education Professional of DC and in 2009 became the first African American in over a decade and first openly gay person ever to be elected President of the Young Democrats of Maryland.

Joseph works as an administrator at a private school in Anacostia and resides in Fairmount Heights, MD. He is a member of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

Thursday Network is an auxiliary group rich with history and positive impact. I was personally drawn to the organization’s extensive efforts towards community service, personal and professional development, and civic engagement.

With any long-standing organization that has experienced exponential growth, it is important to review and assess its governing documents, policies and procedures, and systems to ensure that the organization’s practices are relevant and applicable to its present needs. I am running for Parliamentarian because I hope to lead this effort and continue the work of Thursday Network’s current Parliamentarian and the policies and procedures ad hoc committee.

I have relatable experience and skills that would be transferable to Thursday Network and the office of Parliamentarian. I am an 11-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. During my membership in the sorority, I have taken several trainings and workshops on parliamentary procedure, protocol, and general accounting practices. I also serve on the Bylaws Committee for the Ivy Foundation of Washington, DC, where I have assisted in the review and update of its bylaws and manual of standard operating procedures. I personally aspire to become a Registered Parliamentarian.

I am hardworking and dedicated to creating systems and processes that allow organizations to operate smoothly and maintain its focus and energy to its mission. I am ready to serve and allocate 10 hours a week to the mission and vision of Thursday Network.

Date of initial TN membership:

January 2018

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

I have attended the following most recent TN events: Friendship Place Welcome Home Basket donation and collection, Food Pantry Distribution, Y2K Karaoke Night Fundraiser, DC Housing Expo, and The Mix Up Part 2 Fundraiser.

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

Since I joined TN, I have participated on the Fund Development and Personal and Professional Development committees.

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

I have yet to attend a NUL affiliated conference since joining. However, conferences are important to me. They provide attendees with the opportunity to learn best practices, network with other young professionals and subject matter experts, and revive one's commitment to the movement. If elected, I look forward to attending at least one conference during my term.

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

I currently serve in the following capacities:

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Xi Zeta Omega Chapter (Washington, DC), Treasurer - I am the chairman of the Finance Committee, pay all authorized bills of the chapter, prepare and present monthly and annual financial reports, and develop the annual budget and tracks spending and funds available.
• The Ivy Foundation of Washington DC, Board Member - Board members are tasked to establish the policies of the Foundation, be responsible for the management and administration of the Foundation, and have the power to conduct the business of the Foundation.
• DC Healthy Communities Collaborative, Steering Committee Member - I serve as co-chair of the Health Literacy and Community Grant-Making Committees.
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Xi Zeta Omega Chapter (Washington, DC), Graduate Advisor's Council - I attend meetings and activities and mentor members of the undergraduate chapter, Omicron Pi (Georgetown, Catholic, and Trinity Washington Universities).

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Xi Zeta Omega Chapter (Washington, DC) Assistant Financial Secretary (2012) and Financial Secretary (2013 to 2015) - I prepared and disbursed receipts for income received, maintained the financial roster of the membership, and maintained a record of all receipts issued.
• Tulane University, Class of 2009 Alumni Representative - I assisted with planning reunion activities and increasing alumni giving rates.
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Xi Zeta Omega Chapter (Washington, DC) Program Committee Member - I served as co-coordinator of the chapter's health initiative activities and co-chair of the Girls Rock Emerging Young Leaders Empowerment Conference.
• Children’s National Medical Center, Adolescent Prevention Education Programs (Washington, DC) Volunteer Facilitator - I facilitated the CDC’s Focus on Youth (FOY) + ImPACT Intervention, a community-based, eight session group intervention that provides youth with the skills and knowledge they need to protect themselves from HIV and other STIs.

Provide a biographical sketch

As a nine-year resident of the District of Columbia, Courtney Coffey is a servant-leader dedicated to creating personal, community, and system-wide change that ensures equitable access to optimal health and wellness for all. She currently is a Community Health Program Manager with Sibley Memorial Hospital’s Department of Government and Community Affairs, where she develops and implements Sibley’s community health priorities, including community benefit responsibilities, community education and outreach programs, grant opportunities, and strategic partnerships.

Courtney is an 11-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and has served in several offices as an undergraduate and graduate member. As a member of Xi Zeta Omega chapter in Washington, DC, she has served as Assistant Financial Secretary, Financial Secretary, and currently, holds the office of Treasurer. She is also on the Board of Directors of the Ivy Foundation of Washington, DC, a 501(c)(3) organization established by the members of Xi Zeta Omega Chapter.

Courtney is a member of Reid Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church, and recently joined Thursday Network, a young professional auxiliary group within the Greater Washington Urban League. Courtney earned her MPH in Health Promotion from the George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, and her BS in Cell and Molecular Biology from Tulane University. In her spare time, she enjoys concerts, swimming, and exploring the District’s culinary scene.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

I’m running for Chair of the Civic Engagement committee because I both understand and appreciate the role of this committee to Thursday Network and the larger Urban League family and believe I can add to the reputation of this committees work in a meaningful way. I think I am uniquely qualified to lead this committee at this important time. I have demonstrated experience in leading organizations of people, providing professionalism, ensuring transparency and making certain I provide follow up and follow through which is essential in this type of role. There is synergy amongst our membership, particularly as it relates to engaging on the current state of our politics and political discourse at every level and I wish to harness that in a way that provides an outlet and impactful programming that is results driven. Specifically, along with the committee membership, we will work to build upon the current Certificate in Advocacy initiative, reorganize and realign the committee to meet the needs of TN and the National and Greater Washington Urban Leagues, and build upon established relationships with outside organizations. In addition to those efforts, I look forward to focusing intently on non-partisan voter registration, rolling out initiatives designed to prepare our membership to engage in the political process and engaging thought leaders of varied backgrounds to participate in a speaker series focused around civic participation. I’m looking forward to what I will know be a heavy workload commitment and dedicating as much time as is needed to take this committee to higher heights.

Date of initial TN membership:

February 2018

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

July General Body Meeting (GBM), June GBM which I spearheaded, Y2K Karaoke, Hometown Happy Hour, YBGB Be the Match Transplant Party

• July General Body Meeting
• May General Body Meeting
• May Membership Committee Meeting
• Legislative Policy Mixer
• April Membership Committee Meeting

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• Personal and Professional Development 2018
• Committee Member/Spearheaded June GBM Black Economics Forum

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• Legislative Policy Conference 2018

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• New Leaders Council DC, General member

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• New Leaders Council Tallahassee, FL -Executive Board Member
• NAACP of Prince George's County Assistant Treasurer Serve on the Finance and Audit Committees
• Florida Conference of Black State Legislators Conference Committee Co-Chair

Provide a biographical sketch

Vincent Evans has served as special assistant to U.S. Representative Al Lawson of Florida since January 2017. Prior to his appointment, he served as the chief aide to a City Commissioner in Tallahassee, Florida. He began his political career working as deputy campaign manager for a state senate candidate in Jacksonville. In 2011, he went on to work as a legislative analyst in the Florida Senate Minority (Democratic) Office. He was assigned to cover the regulated industries, military affairs & domestic security, higher education, and appropriations committee in this role. Later, he worked as political director for a Democratic congressional candidate in North Florida in 2012 and field organizer for a gubernatorial candidate in 2014. Prior to his joining the Office of Mayor and City Commission, Evans worked as a policy and rules research assistant with a cabinet level state agency. There he was tasked with the formulation and coordination of the rule making process, providing technical assistance, and preparing policy memorandums. Evans, the recipient of the 2014 Tallahassee Network of Young Professionals award for public service has for the past three years served as chair of the Emerging Leaders Summit on behalf of the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators. He’s an alumnus of the Young People For (YP4) fellowship program. He was recognized in 2010 by the Lumina Foundation Lessons magazine for his policy advocacy. A Jacksonville native, Evans received a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the Florida A&M University.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

As the current Community Service Events chair, I understand the importance of providing diverse opportunities for Thursday Network members to meaningfully support their community and would be honored to continue my work in the 2018 - 2019 term. Since joining Thursday Network in July 2017, I have become an integral member of the community by supporting several committees and events prior to being selected as the Member of the Month for December 2017 because of my leadership in creating a holiday card making event and holiday party for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House. Based on my passion for community service, I was asked to consider stepping into my current role as the Community Service Events Chair and have enjoyed collaborating on a variety of programming during my short tenure. I am uniquely qualified for this role because of my passion for serving the community, commitment to upholding the pillars of Thursday Network and the Greater Washington Urban League, and excellent project management skills that ensure all events are coordinated with ease.

If elected for another term as the Community Service Events Chair, I would ensure there is diverse and meaningful opportunities for members to positively impact the entire Greater Washington Urban League footprint. This term, most of the community service opportunities were held in DC and I would expand our reach into more partnerships in Maryland. There are organizations within Prince George’s County and Montgomery County that need support and engage members who live in these areas would be more engaged in participating. In addition, I would continue to solicit the insight of the members of the Community Service Committee to ensure there are a diverse selection of events that align with the pillars of GWUL and TN. With the current national push for more programming related to technical literacy, I would plan more programming that allows us to minimize the tech divide amongst underserved groups. By expanding my original idea for a Design Challenge during this year’s National Day of Service to multiple times per year, we can engage more groups of students and help them create solutions to problems within their community using elements of STEAM. As a member of the Executive Leadership Council during the next term, I hope to help leadership expand all programming to the full GWUL footprint and expand partnerships with neighboring National Urban League Young Professional chapters through unique community service opportunities. I am dedicated to leading Thursday Network during the next term and I am willing to support TN and GWUL with whatever time is needed.

Date of initial TN membership:

July 2017

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

TN Gives Back: Food for All DC, Friendship Place Welcome Basket Distribution, RMDH Dinner Preparation, Goodie Girl Bags Packing Party, YBGB Transplant Party

• July General Body Meeting
• May General Body Meeting
• May Membership Committee Meeting
• Legislative Policy Mixer
• April Membership Committee Meeting

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• Community Service Committee (July 2017 - present), Chair from February 2017 to present
• Membership and PPD Committees (July 2017 - present)

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• Legislative Policy Conference 2018

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• Thursday Network, Community Service Events Chair
• Young Education Professionals, Member
• Learn Together, Live Together, Member

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• N/A

Provide a biographical sketch

Chalon Jones is a current community servant and up and coming thought leader with almost a decade in the field of urban education. She is passionate about discussing and uncovering disparities within the educational outcomes of underrepresented students. Chalon’s passion for supporting her community started in middle school when she volunteered at a childcare center for young children that were experiencing homelessness. She continues her support by creating community service programming for Thursday Network and at her place of employment. In her current role she supports students, families, and schools as a Program Analyst for the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Education for the District of Columbia. Chalon plays a critical role in developing and managing the Mayor’s education initiatives that intersect safety, transportation, and health programs. Chalon is also a current doctoral student focusing on Leadership and Learning in Organizations at the Peabody College of Vanderbilt University.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

During my current tenure as fund development chair, I was able to create structure and policies for the my committee and TN as a whole. I would like to continue to cultivate a culture of fundraising and soliciting for the organization.

This position requires a high level of patience, versatility, and creativity. Aside from those traits, I bring professional experience. I served as a Development Associate for a local nonprofit for 3 years.

I want to continue to cultivate a culture of fundraising and investing into the organization within our organization. With the refresh of the #InvestedInCommunity push, I hope to get outside organizations, include corporations and small business.

We are well aware of the greatness that is within TN, and the potential of our members to really serve the needs of the community. It would be an honor to lead the charge to incorporate more organizations into the TN family!

Date of initial TN membership:

2015

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

Hometown Happy Hour; Open House; New Member Orientation; Food Pantry Distribution; General Body Meeting

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• Membership Committee, member: 2016-2018
• PPD, member: 2017-2018
• Fund Development, chair: 2017-2018

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• N/A

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• N/A

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• The International Fraternity of Delta Sigma Pi, Alumni Advisor

Provide a biographical sketch

A New Orleans Native, Angeline moved to Washington DC to attend Howard University. While at Howard, Angeline was very involved in the business school, serving on the student council executive board, and on the board for her business fraternity, the International Fraternity of Delta Sigma Pi. In 2014, she received a Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in Marketing.

Angeline has found her passion in the fundraising and marketing sectors. She previously worked for local non-profit as a key member of their Development department. Angeline is responsible for the logistics for key fundraising events. She currently works as a Advertising Associate with Rising Tide Interactive, assisting in electing progressive candidates through digital efforts.

She hopes to bring her experience in marketing, fundraising and event planning to Thursday Network. She is very excited about the opportunity to help The Movement in the growth and development of the African American community.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

I am running because I am confident that I can contribute my 10 plus years of effective leadership, mentorship and astute followership to produce programming which will develop Thursday Network members into well-rounded professionals endowed to function through “service” as leaders in our “community”. Over the years I have gained a clear understanding that personal and professional development is only the beginning of the journey. This journey does not have a final destination, but it has direction and milestones. As a former senior military leader, charged with the care and development of military leaders from the safe confines of a military base in San Diego to a war-torn battlefield in Afghanistan I quickly learned that effective leadership is cultivated through personal interaction and professional example. Since transitioning to civilian life I continue to serve as a member of 100 Black Men of Greater Washington’s mentorship/professional development council, Big Brother Big Sister and Co-chair for Mentorship at Young Professionals in Foreign Policy. In these different capacities I have directly led several leadership workshops, organized events around financial stability, health and wellness town halls, My Brother’s Keeper forums and mental stability. Having served as the Thursday Network PPD Chair during the 2017-2018 term I intend to continue developing member and community focused programming that challenges our own biases and showcases the talented young professionals that do dynamic work in our community and within Thursday Network. That may seem trivial but an organization needs people that will do more than follow the lead set by management; they need dedication, accountability and consistency in a leader that will contribute their efforts to realize the ideas of the PPD committee, TN executive board and national NULYP priorities collectively. I have been amazed by the amount of “builder” type personalities that already exist within the PPD committee. Our committee’s personal self-reflecting focus with be “Building Community”. One of my initial initiative will be to plan a leadership workshop. This initiative will be entitled “Building Community”. My desire is to help TN members realize the strengths we have within our ranks as well as areas we wish to personally improve and resources to assist in that. (I) can’t present the best example of ME to this organization and its outreach efforts if I’m unaware of the direction and purpose of my professional and personal life.

Date of initial TN membership:

June 2017

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

No

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

All GBMs (as PPD Chair) GWUL Gala Legislative Conference 2018 MLK - Day of Service TN Sprirt of Service TN STEAM event Fund Development Karaoke Civic Engagement 101 program

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• Membership (1 year)
• PPD (1 year)
• Community Service (1 year)
• Social and Cultural (1 year)
• Civic Engagement (1 year)

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• Legislative Conference 2018

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• TN Executive Leadership Council – PPD Chair

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• Senior Military Leadership Council – President
• American Red Cross Disaster Relief Response Team - Vice Chair
• Young Men Leadership Council – President

Provide a biographical sketch

Genaro Stewart is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. He currently serves as a Senior Foreign Policy Advisor, in this capacity he often provides advisory counsel to the White House, Pentagon and National Security Council concerning national security policy considerations and emerging international geopolitical issues. Genaro has also served as a visiting guest lecturer at the Naval War College and as a course advisor at Duke University. Prior to relocating to Washington, D.C. he spent a considerable amount of time working abroad in over 20 countries ranging from the mountainous country of Afghanistan to the stunning and scenic geography of East Africa.

When Genaro is not engaged in international affairs, he is very passionate about young male mentorship and personal and professional development. He is an active participant in the 100 Black Men of Greater Washington’s Leadership Academy, embracing their youth empowerment motto, “What They See Is What They’ll Be.” His selfless service isn’t limited to his community but he is also a U.S. Navy veteran. Genaro’s extensive experience is a welcomed addition to our executive board, and he is excited to serve and build relations as the Personal and Professional Development chair.

Why are you running for this position? What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position? What initiatives would you implement if elected to this position? If elected to this position, describe how you would use your role to impact the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals? How much time can you commit to this position?

I began my career keenly aware of the value and importance of getting involved and giving back. Starting in college and continuing beyond graduation from Georgia State University, I volunteered for several organizations in my industry, in my community, in my church and beyond. Then I had an amazing opportunity to relocate to New York City for a career-redefining promotion. I became totally dedicated to my new career in public relations and marketing, and my volunteer work, quite frankly, took a back seat. Once I left NYC and made my Washington D.C., I realized I needed to get back to my roots of volunteerism and giving my time and talents to worthy causes. That is why I am so excited to run for Thursday Network’s Public Relations Marketing chair. I am looking forward to applying the skills and talent I use and develop on a daily basis to an organization that can truly benefit from what I have to offer.

I am uniquely qualified for this position because I have worked in some form of media, public relations or marketing for more than 10 years. From working in a computer lab helping people to understand photo and video editing, to working for television networks writing and producing news, to working for the world’s largest publicly traded public relations firm, to now doing public relations and marketing for the world’s largest hospitality company, I’ve seen it all and done it all. From editing short films, to writing press releases, to working with CEOs on national television interviews, to coding my own websites, I have skills that will be extremely valuable to the organization.

If elected to this position I plan to continue to build on the great work of the previous PR/Marketing chair while working to refine and elevate the image of the organization as a leader among young professionals in civic engagement and economic empowerment in Washington D.C, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County. Thursday Network has done a great job of communicating to members and showing members the value of their dues; I believe more work could be done to show to the community just how much Thursday Network is doing to impact and enhance the community on a regular basis.

CEO George Lambert has shared his desire to lean into technology and bring more technological know-how to GWUL and Thursday Network. Given my background and current work, I am more than capable of helping to bring this vision to fruition. I can use my technology skills to implement practices to help Thursday Network run even more efficiently, while also helping to position Thursday Network as an expert in this area. I would also be happy to help coordinate workshops or other instruction for organization members and leaders who wish to know more about things like website coding or social media.

I understand this position requires a significant time commitment. I am willing and able to commit that time.

Date of initial TN membership:

July 2018

Have you been affiliated with any other NULYP Chapters?

Yes. NULYP Atlanta (2011 - 2013)

List the five most recent TN/NULYP events of which you have attended or served in a support capacity within the past year.

• 6/28/18 - May GBM - Black Economic Forum (attended)
• 7/17/18 - Friendship Place Welcome Home Baskets (volunteered)
• 7/19/18 - Hometown Happy Hour (attended)
• 7/26/18 - June GBM - Nominations/Miss District of Columbia (attended)
• 7/28/18 - Food For All DC (volunteered)

List TN/NULYP committees on which you have participated (include role and years).

• PR/Marketing/Digital committee - member, 2018
• Community Service Events committee - attended, 2018

List the National Urban League affiliated conferences that you have attended (include year and location).

• N/A

List current organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• ColorComm DC member
• National Association of Black Journalists member
• Delta Sigma Theta member

List past organization affiliation, position held, and duties (no more than 4)

• ColorComm (2017 - 2018): Served as 2017 Communications Director for ColorComm Network, improving communications among leadership as well as with membership by implementing several new tools
• National Association of Black Journalists (2010 - present): PR consultant for 2017 convention; served as programming committee co-chair and event planning lead for 2013 convention, coordinating two plenary sessions featuring the chairs of the RNC and DNC
• Atlanta Association of Black Journalists (2010 - 2013): Developed strategic communication plan for Atlanta Association of Black Journalists including social media and email marketing which led to doubled membership within one year as well as the NABJ Chapter of the Year designation for 2012; improved internal communication by implementing systems to facilitate ongoing communication among members and leadership
• Delta Sigma Theta Atlanta Alumnae Chapter (2011 - 2013): Served as communication chair for Political Awareness Committee, leading the charge for the 2012 voter registration drive; consulted on the creation of revamped website for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Atlanta Alumnae Chapter

Provide a biographical sketch

Brittany Cummings is an expert in communications strategy and content marketing. She is currently a Senior Manager at Marriott International, and was previously a Senior Media Strategist at Weber Shandwick, one of the world's largest communication firms. During that time she was honored with PR Week’s Rising Stars Under 30 Award

Her agency and consulting clients have ranged from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofit organizations to universities. Her work has involved events featuring everyone from Julianne Moore and Nate Berkus, to the former heads of the RNC and DNC, to President Barack Obama. Her work has also taken her across the nation, with clients from San Francisco to New York to D.C to Miami.

Brittany is passionate about advocacy and social justice, having volunteered with the Southern Center for Human Rights in Atlanta and now with the National Urban League Young Professionals in Washington, D.C. At Weber she led media strategy for several issues-based campaigns, and she is currently working to help launch Marriott’s new purpose-driven marketing campaign.

Brittany began her career as a journalist, producing at CNN and Al Jazeera America. She earned bachelor’s degrees in both Journalism and Political Science from Georgia State University, as well a New Media Studies certificate from the George Washington University. She was born in Sacramento, California but considers herself an Atlanta native, having spent the majority of her life there. She lived in New York City from late 2013 to early 2017, before relocating to Washington D.C.