OUR LEADERSHIP
MEET THE
NEW YORK STATE NAACP
LEADERSHIP
PRESIDENT’S BIO
L. Joy Williams is a seasoned political strategist, civic leader, and dynamic speaker with a passion for empowering individuals and communities to engage in the democratic process. As President of NAACP New York State Conference, L. Joy is dedicated to advancing civil rights, advocating for social justice, and creating lasting change in her community.
Through her work, L. Joy has built a reputation for delivering impactful speeches, training sessions, and workshops that inspire action. Whether leading discussions on policy reform, advocating for racial equity, or facilitating conversations on civic engagement, her voice resonates with audiences across the country.
L. Joy is also the host of the nationally recognized and five-time NAACP Image Award-nominated podcast, #SundayCivics. The show, which teaches adults how to understand and navigate the political system, has become a vital tool for those seeking to become more involved in civic life. Through candid interviews with policymakers, thought leaders, and community activists, #SundayCivics encourages listeners to take meaningful action in their communities.
Throughout her career, L. Joy has championed numerous advocacy efforts—from local campaigns to national initiatives—helping to shape public policy and galvanize communities to demand accountability from elected officials. Her leadership is not just about policy change but also about providing people with the tools to become advocates themselves, strengthening the civic fabric of our democracy.
Beyond her professional roles, L. Joy is deeply committed to personal empowerment and education. She believes that everyone has the ability to make a difference, and through both her public work and her podcast, she provides a platform for individuals to learn, grow, and take action in ways that align with their values.
Her work has earned recognition from organizations across the country, and she continues to be a trusted voice for progress and change. L. Joy’s tireless commitment to the cause of justice, equity, and civic engagement inspires those around her to believe in their own power to create a better future.
L. Joy Williams
PRESIDENT, NAACP NYS CONFERENCE
MEET THE TEAM LEADING
THE FIGHT IN NEW YORK STATE
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TRACEY A. EDWARDS
1ST VICE PRESIDENT
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GARY JOHNSON
2ND VICE PRESIDENT
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CLAIRE THEOBALDS
SECRETARY
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ANTHONY ELLIS
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
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ROBYN LIVERPOOL
TREASURER
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HILDA RODGERS
ASSISTANT TREASURER
CO-CHAIR, W.I.N. -

CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
LEGAL REDRESS -

LIZ MITCHELL
CHIEF OF STAFF
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SARISSA PHILLIPS-SINGLETARY
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
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KISHA SKIPPER
AT-LARGE
CHAIR, DISABILITY & ACCESSIBILITY -

WILBUR ALDRIDGE
AT-LARGE
CHAIR, FREEDOM FUND -

CHARLES JOHNSON
AT-LARGE
CHAIR, CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
CHAIR, POLITICAL ACTION
MEET OUR STATE CHAIRS
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NATALIE PATASAW
CHAIR, ENVIRONMENTAL & CLIMATE JUSTICE
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DR. DIVINE PRYOR
CHAIR, CRIMINAL JUSTICE
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GARRY JOHNSON
CHAIR, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
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CHRISTINE WATERS
CHAIR, EDUCATION
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FRANCESCA MESIAH
CHAIR, HEALTH
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GLORIA BENFIELD
CHAIR, MEMBERSHIP
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RAH THOMAS
CHAIR, TECHNOLOGY
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SHANELLE WASHINGTON
CHAIR, HOUSING
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REV. TYQUANA RIVERS
RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS
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CLAUDIA SWANSEY
CO-CHAIR, W.I.N.
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LEROY GADSDEN
CHAIR, PRISON COORDINATION
MEET OUR YOUTH & COLLEGE DIVISION
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LINETTE TOWNSLEY
NEW YORK STATE ADVISOR
CHAIR, YOUTH WORKS -

MYLES HOLLINGSWORTH
PRESIDENT, YOUTH & COLLEGE
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JARAYA BUCHANAN
1ST VICE PRESIDENT
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XZAYLA WILSON
SECRETARY
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SHANAE PHILLIPS
TREASURER