ABOUT LEAH

An Accomplished Leader

Possessing a diverse record of exceptional public service throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, Leah has cultivated relationships with elected officials, advocates, corporate partners, education stakeholders, community based organizations, school division leaders, and non-profit executives. Resolute in her commitment to community impact, Leah has devoted her career to public service and social justice.

A Record of Exceptional Service

With more than twenty years of public sector experience, Leah has worked for; Mayor Jones Administration in the City of Richmond, Governor Kaine at the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, the Virginia Democratic Caucus in the House of Delegates, the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus and its Foundation, Richmond City Council, and Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott.

An Effective Communicator

A transformational leader, Leah has successfully modernized communication strategies for executive branch agencies, pioneered innovative outreach tactics, and elevated discourse on signature initiatives and programs.

Recent professional accomplishments

Communication & Public Relations

Leah successfully spearheaded the development and launch of Virginia’s communications strategy and plan to promote K-12 Education Reforms and advance the state’s Education Equity agenda. This includes developing and deploying communication collateral and launching the #EdEquityVA and Virginia is for Learners statewide public information campaigns.

Equity & Inclusion

Leah led the conceptualization and successful implementation of two significant education equity events: Virginia’s first ever Teachers of Color Summit (partnership with the Virginia Education Association) and Virginia’s Minority Educator Recruitment Fair Pre-Summit (partnership with Virginia’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities); and Virginia’s inaugural Virginia is for All Learners: Education Equity Summer Institute attended by more than 600 educators from across the state.

Current experience

Executive Leadership

Leah currently serves as the Director for Equity and Community Engagement at the Virginia Department of Education where she leads statewide efforts aimed at advancing education equity, closing the achievement gap, and decreasing disproportionality in student outcomes. Her office also directs external communications, public relations, and constituent services for the Department.

In her current role, Leah continues to galvanize support for public education and education equity in Virginia while offering her expertise and consultation to select clients.

Public Speaking

As a sought after presenter and public speaker, Leah is recognized for her communication savvy and oral presentations. Speaking topics include:

Education Equity & K-12 Policy
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Leadership
Social Justice
Youth Program Development

Be Impacted Blog

Leah is the founder, editor and curator of content for Be Impacted Blog featuring articles and content centered on advancing equity, social justice, and public sector impact. Content is focused on increasing awareness of marginalized and underrepresented communities while elevating discourse on social impact strategies.