In this Issue:
- Introducing Our Newly Elected Branch Officers
- Gum Springs Community Center Winter Holiday Celebration | December 21
- Save the Date: Advocacy Agenda Rollout | January 15
- Join the Fight
- Available Internship
- Member Spotlight
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Maintain Your Membership
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Happy Holidays from the Fairfax County NAACP! As we celebrate this season of joy, reflection, and togetherness, we remain committed to justice, equity, and uplifting our community. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to continuing our work together in the new year. Wishing you and yours peace, love, and prosperity!
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Congratulations to Our Newly Elected 2025-2027 Officers! | |
The Fairfax County NAACP proudly introduces our newly elected officers for 2025. Their dedication and leadership will guide our efforts to advance justice, equity, and positive change in our community.
Join us in welcoming and supporting them as they take on these vital roles. Together, we look forward to making a meaningful impact in the year ahead!
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President
Niki Zimmerman
Niki Zimmerman is a native of Miami, FL, who made a commitment at an early age to one day make a positive impact in the lives of those around her. As a youth, she worked with various faith-based organizations and community enrichment projects, including feeding the homeless, tutoring, participating in clothing drives, and volunteering for her neighborhood crime watch. While attending Florida Memorial University, a Historically Black College and University, Niki felt called to action after 9/11. She enlisted in the United States Army and later joined the U.S. Army National Guard, where she has honorably served for the past 23 years.
A fierce advocate for underserved, underrepresented, and disenfranchised communities in Fairfax County and across the Commonwealth of Virginia, Niki currently serves as the President of the Fairfax County NAACP. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Virginia American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU-VA). Previously, Niki served two terms on the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities, where she was Board Chair. She has also been an At-Large member of the Fairfax County Economic Advisory Commission, served as the Virginia State Conference NAACP Criminal Justice Chair, and Area Director for the Virginia State Conference NAACP. Niki was also a member of the Fairfax County Public Schools Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities.
Niki holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Finance, along with certifications in both Defense Financial Management and Defense Resource Management. She is currently completing her certification in Cost Estimating and Analysis and working toward her certification in Data Analytics for Defense Management
Niki’s proudest accomplishment is being the mother of a son who is a student in the Virginia Public School System.
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1st Vice-President
Evelyn Spain
Evelyn is a native New Yorker who has lived in Fairfax County for the past 21 years. She holds an MBA in Healthcare Administration from American Intercontinental University and has an adult daughter living in Reston, Virginia. Her husband of 17 years passed away in 2021 due to health concerns. Evelyn is the Founder and President of The Foundation for Eleanora R. Spratt Scholarships, which provides educational opportunities. She is also a graduate of the prestigious 2019 Sorenson Political Leadership Program (PLP).
In the 2024 Fairfax County NAACP elections, Evelyn Spain was elected First Vice President of the Fairfax County NAACP, having recently chaired the Women in NAACP (WIN) Committee and the Freedom Fund Committee. She also serves as a Planning Commissioner for the Sully District, shaping land use and development policies in Fairfax County, and holds the position of Secretary in the Planning Commission leadership committee. As Chair of the Schools Committee, Evelyn works closely with the Fairfax County Public School Board as a liaison. Additionally, she is a member of Black Women on Deck, a civic group encouraging voter engagement, and was recently appointed to the Board of Directors for OAR NOVA, a nonprofit focused on justice reform and community safety.
Evelyn brings extensive experience and certifications to her roles, including credentials in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI), and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. In 2021, she was nominated by the Fairfax County Chair of the Board of Supervisors to serve on the former Confederate Names Task Force. Her commitment to service and leadership is evident in every endeavor she undertakes, reflecting her dedication to building a better community.
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2nd Vice-President
Dr. Sujatha Hampton
Sujatha Hampton has a Masters and Ph.D in Special Education with a focus on Learning Disabilities and Serious Emotional Disturbance. She has worked as a teacher in Washington, DC, Austin, TX, and Montgomery County Public Schools; as a special education professor at The University of Virginia, focusing her work on pre-service training for teachers of students with emotional and behavioral problems; and as the Title I Coordinator for Albemarle County Public Schools, where she focused on literacy and closing the opportunity and achievement gap.
Upon moving back home to Northern Virginia, Sujatha wrote a novel which was published in 2010. Sujatha currently serves on the Fairfax County Library Board of Trustees, the Advisory Council for the Political Leadership Academy at George Mason University’s Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, and as the 2nd Vice President and Education Chair of the Fairfax County NAACP. The larger goal of all this work is the justice and joy that might be had if every child could access an excellent education offered in respect, rooted in truth, and suffused with love.
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3rd Vice-President
Les Shockley
Les Shockley is married with one adult daughter and has lived in Fairfax County for 21 years. He graduated from Union College (NY) with a B.A. in Economics and an MBA from Columbia University (NY). Now retired, Les spent his career as a Finance professional largely with multinational companies working in Treasury and Finance. During his 17-year tenure with Philip Morris, he worked in the Latin America region and spent four years as Director of Finance living in Panama. He transitioned to the federal government working with the Office of the U. S. Trade Representative under the Executive Office of the President in 2003 where he was Director of Finance & Budget until his retirement in 2018.
Les has been active in voluntary roles in different arenas throughout his professional life. With his 2022 return to the NAACP, he has come full circle having served as a Vice President of the Chelsea-Greenwich Village Chapter in New York City many years ago. Since joining the Fairfax County chapter, he has worked with the Legal Redress Committee. He currently serves on the Executive Committee, Second Parliamentarian, and heads the Budget Committee. The Budget Committee works to support the chapter’s Advocacy Committees funding goals. The Budget Committee strives to influence political leaders and governing bodies to support the NAACP’s interests. He is an active member of Heritage Fellowship Church serving on two committees. He is also a member of the Invest4Fairfax coalition. His other interests are tennis, travel, and the arts.
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Secretary
Michael O'Brien
For 30+ years Mike O'Brien worked as a communications and public relations director for a not-for-profit financial institution supporting the rural electric cooperative sector. In retirement his book We Shall Not Be Moved was published by the University Press of Mississippi (2013) at which time he launched his blog (notbemoved.com) and found time to become active in local issues through joining the Fairfax County NAACP. Mike served as Communications Chair (2015-2016) and as branch Secretary (2016-2018) He authored the 10-page essay—and compiled the 4 pages of media links—that led to the branch’s successful bid for the NAACP’s Thalheimer Award in 2018.
During his 4-year hiatus from active branch participation, Mike wrote his second book, Minds Stayed on Freedom, currently under review for publication by UPM. Mike is also an emeritus board member of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation, Teaching for Change, and the DC Foster & Adoptive Parent Advocacy Center.
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Assistant Secretary
Rachel Luckenbaugh
Rachel Luckenbaugh joined the Fairfax County NAACP in the fall of 2020. Since becoming a member, she has had the privilege of serving on the Freedom Fund committee, contributing to both virtual and in-person fundraisers. Professionally, she works in fundraising as an administrative assistant for a national suicide prevention nonprofit, a cause particularly close to her heart.
In her free time, Rachel enjoys baking, watching classic films, and spending time with her dog.
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Treasurer
Erica Scott
Erica Scott, a Metropolitan Area native, brings extensive experience in Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and Logistics, honed at a prominent Food and Pharmacy Warehouse. She has advanced her career to manage over $1 million in budgetary funds for humanitarian programs serving domestic and international communities. A dedicated professional, student, and community advocate, Erica tackles issues such as family law, judicial misconduct, and police accountability with unwavering determination.
Her efforts have earned recognition, including a Citation from U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen for her contributions to organizations like "For Kathy’s Sake" and "Community Actively Seeking Transparency (CAST)." Erica instills her commitment to service in her children, volunteering together at church, community events, and even the Washington Smithsonian.
Passionate about addressing systemic inequities in health, justice, and law enforcement, Erica remains steadfast in her mission to drive meaningful change. An artist at heart, she has recorded a cherished song on the debut album of renowned jazz group Phaze II. Erica finds joy in the arts, cherishing time with her family and building lasting memories.
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Assistant Treasurer
Dr. Monique Norwood
Monique is a Southern California native who has lived in Fairfax County for eight years. As an advocate for social justice, she has worked on several steering committees aimed at eliminating racial discrimination and promoting access to education, healthcare, and fair opportunities for all.
For the past four years, Monique has been a member of the Fairfax County Branch of the NAACP, where she has served on the Executive Committee as the Assistant Treasurer, co-chair of the Freedom Fund Committee, and has served as an Advisor for the Youth Council.
When asked what inspired her to join the branch, she said, "My twin boys motivated me to join the NAACP because I want to ensure they grow up in an environment free from systemic barriers and where their potential is not defined by racial prejudice. By being part of this organization, I’m not only supporting the movement for equality, but also teaching them the importance of standing up for justice, being active citizens, and knowing they have a community that fights for their rights and future."
Monique received her Doctorate in Pharmacy from Xavier University of Louisiana and works as a Clinical Pharmacist. When she’s not working, she enjoys volunteering in the community and coaching her kids in soccer and track.
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At Large Member
Karen Campblin
Karen Campblin is the newly-elected At Large Member of Fairfax County NAACP. An experienced servant-leader and champion of social justice, she has lead the branch as President during a truly pivotal time in the nation’s history.
Karen previously served as Fairfax NAACP President, 1st Vice President and Political Action Chair, and currently serves as Chair, Environment Justice for the NAACP’s Virginia State Conference. She is passionate about transportation, community (re)development, and equity/environmental justice issues and therefore also serves tirelessly on several county commissions and task forces.
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At Large Member
Dr. Gerson S. Sher
Gerson S. Sher, PhD is a retired civil servant and foundation executive whose professional career was devoted to managing basic scientific research collaboration between the United States and the former Soviet Union, including twenty years of service at the US National Science Foundation. After the fall of communism in 1991, he led major private and public foundations continuing that work.
He is the author of two books, numerous scholarly articles, and translations on subjects such as US-Soviet and post-Soviet scientific cooperation, intellectual history, and nuclear security and safety. He received a B.A. in Russian Studies from Yale University and a Ph.D. in Politics from Princeton University. Since retirement in 2012, he became active in the movement for racial and social justice through the Fairfax NAACP, the Virginia Poor People’s Campaign, and the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. He is married with two sons and two grandchildren.
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At Large Member
Meredyth Harvasay
Meredyth Havasay is originally from New York City and has lived in Fairfax for the past 10 years. After many years as a stay-at-home mom to three children (ages 12, 8, and 5), she has returned to the workforce as an attorney with the Department of Justice. A lifelong advocate for civil rights, Meredyth launched diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at her children’s preschool and elementary school.
She began attending NAACP branch meetings in fall 2021 and became a member a year later. She has actively served on the Legal Redress and Communications Committees and is enthusiastic about deepening her involvement as an at-large member of the Executive Committee.
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At Large Member
Jasmine Carr
Jasmine has been a member of the branch since 2022 and serves on the Membership Committee as a Co-Chair as well as the Freedom Fund Committee. Jasmine has been dedicated to public service since a child, working alongside her family to improve conditions in her native hometown of Detroit, Michigan.
In addition to her work with the NAACP, she is also a member of other civic groups including the Poor People’s Campaign, Blacks in Government and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. For the last 15 years she has worked in grants management and community development and holds as B.S in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. She is looking forward to continuing to advocate for the equal rights and treatment of all people in Fairfax County, regardless of their race, ethnicity or background.
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At Large Member
Lenior Simmons
Lenior Simmons has been a member of the NAACP Fairfax County Branch for many years, where she has served on the Communications, Freedom Fund, Political Action, Women in NAACP, and Legal Redress committees. Lenior first took on a leadership role in the Branch when she was appointed by Past President Michelle Leete as the Branch Parliamentarian in Fall 2022. President Leete later appointed her as the Political Action Co-Chair in December 2023, a role she enjoys.
Lenior believes her responsibility as the Branch Political Action Chair is to engage and inform the community about elections and legislation that affect our community. An active member of the Fairfax County community, Lenior also serves as a member of the Fairfax County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, where she is the immediate Past President. In addition, she mentors for Fairfax County Public Schools and serves as a Fairfax County Election Assistant Chief, where she encourages others to serve the community in this vital role.
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Gum Springs Community Center Winter Holiday Celebration | |
Celebrate the Holidays with Us at the Gum Springs Community Center
Join the Gum Springs Community Center and Advisory Board, in partnership with Fairfax County NAACP, for a day of festive fun, holiday cheer, and family-friendly activities.
Saturday, December 21, 2024
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Gum Springs Community Center
8100 Fordson Road, Alexandria, VA 22306
What’s in store:
- Photos with Santa
- Hot Chocolate Bar
- Holiday Cookies
- Gifts
- Bike Giveaway
This event is free and open to all. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the season with your community.
Register Below!
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2025 Advocacy Agenda Rollout! | |
Save The Date!
Join us for the Fairfax County NAACP 2025 Advocacy Agenda Rollout on Monday, January 15, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Gum Springs Community Center.
Mark your calendar for an evening of impactful discussions and community engagement as we unveil our vision and priorities for the year ahead. Together, we can continue driving meaningful change and advocating for justice and equality in Fairfax County.
Stay tuned for more details and registration information. Let’s make 2025 a year of progress, unity, and action!
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Join the Fight for Justice!
The Legal Redress Committee of the Fairfax NAACP is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our team. If you’re committed to advocating for civil rights and making a difference in our community, we want to hear from you!
The Legal Redress Committee aims to investigate all cases that have been identified as discriminatory and provide support to complainants across Fairfax County. *The Committee does not give legal advice.*
If you’re interested in becoming a part of our mission, please reach out to us for more information at legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.org
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If you are interested in gaining valuable experience working on civil rights issues, consider applying to be an intern with the Fairfax County NAACP Legal Redress Committee.
The Legal Redress Committee investigates discrimination complaints based on incidents that happen within Fairfax County. We provide complainants support on issues of employment, housing, education, consumer transactions, banking, racial profiling, encounters with police, and similar matters. As an intern, you would help to:
- collect information to support complainants
- find resources to help resolve complaints
- draft letters/emails on behalf of complainants
- support complainants in any meetings related to their complaints (such as EEOC hearings or school IEP meetings)
- research housing, education, employment, and criminal justice issues relevant to the committee's work
Please submit a resume and cover letter indicating your interest to: legalredress@fairfaxnaacp.com.
*Must be 18 or older to apply.* Flexible scheduling available.
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Welcome to our Member Spotlight! Each month, we’ll be shining a light on one of our amazing members who embodies the spirit of our community. | |
Karen Campblin
Karen Campblin is the newly-elected At Large Member of Fairfax County NAACP. An experienced servant-leader and champion of social justice, she has lead the branch as President during a truly pivotal time in the nation’s history.
Karen previously served as Fairfax NAACP President, 1st Vice President and Political Action Chair, and currently serves as Chair, Environment Justice for the NAACP’s Virginia State Conference. She is passionate about transportation, community (re)development, and equity/environmental justice issues and therefore also serves tirelessly on several county commissions and task forces.
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A friendly reminder to those who pay annual membership dues to belong to the NAACP:
We rely on those dues payments to help us meet our financial obligations, both at the local, state, and national level. Your contributions and engagement are important to us. Please take a moment to check your membership card and see if it’s time to make your dues contribution.
Payment is simple. The following link will bring you to our Fairfax County NAACP web site, where you can update your membership information and then pay via PayPal. Please also consider making a donation when you remit your dues payment.
We very much appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to engaging with you.
For questions about your membership dues, please contact our Branch Secretary Mike O'Brien at secretary@fairfaxnaacp.org.
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Have you joined the movement?
Your Support of Fairfax County NAACP makes a direct and positive impact in our community!
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Fairfax NAACP Executive Committee | | | | |