Basic Info
First Name | Leanna |
Last Name | Pearson |
Username | leannapearson |
Additional Contact Information
Pronouns | she/her/hers/herself |
Progressive Profile
Tagline | Executive Leader in Strategic Planning & Community Engagement | Transformative Advocate for Organizational Growth | Nonprofit & Corporate Strategy Expert |
Bio | My journey into progressive politics began with roots as an African American Woman and a first-generation college graduate growing up in New York City. My story shaped my understanding of systemic inequities and fueled my desire to advocate for legislative and policy changes that create equitable opportunities for all. Early in my career, I recognized the power of civic education and grassroots organizing to empower marginalized communities and build collective strength.
My work has always been about creating opportunities, amplifying voices, and building systems that support equity and justice. I’m proud of my contributions and excited about the work ahead. |
Impact | I’ve made an impact by leaning into my strengths: building relationships, amplifying voices, and creating pathways for others to thrive. As a person of color, a woman, and a first-generation college graduate, I’ve always understood the importance of representation and the power of creating spaces where people feel seen and heard. Whether in education, government, or community organizing, I’ve focused on breaking down barriers and driving meaningful change. My impact on progressive politics has always centered around education, equity, and empowerment. I’ve worked at the intersection of advocacy and implementation, ensuring ideas don’t just stay on paper but translate into meaningful action. In my government role, I’ve been part of teams working on policies to close equity gaps in education and community resources. I’ve also served as a bridge between policymakers and their communities, helping ensure transparency, accountability, and genuine collaboration. In fundraising and organizing spaces, I’ve leveraged my ability to build relationships and mobilize networks to raise resources and create sustainable support systems. The $20,000 we raised at the New Leaders Council wasn’t just about the money; it was about proving what’s possible when people believe in a shared mission and work together to achieve it. My approach has always been about empowering others to step into their potential, creating systems that outlast any one individual, and ensuring the communities I serve have the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to advocate for themselves. |
Mission | In this political cycle, I want to build bridges between policy and community, resources and people, and vision and execution. I want to be in spaces where I can amplify the voices of those often left out of decision-making processes and advocate for policies that address systemic inequities. Whether through organizing, policy development, or leadership roles, I aim to ensure that progressive values are not just spoken about but actively implemented to create lasting change. This cycle, I’m particularly excited about opportunities to mentor and empower the next generation of leaders. I’ve seen firsthand how civic education and grassroots organizing can transform individuals and entire communities. I want to continue building spaces where young people, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, feel equipped and inspired to step into leadership roles. Looking ahead, my ultimate goal is to serve as a nonprofit executive director or a leader within an organization deeply rooted in equity, advocacy, and community empowerment. I want to lead an organization that doesn’t just address symptoms of systemic issues but actively works to dismantle the systems themselves. I aspire to be known as someone who builds sustainable systems, nurtures leadership in others, and drives measurable impact in historically underserved communities. I want my work to leave a legacy of stronger policies, more connected communities, and leaders equipped to carry the torch forward. In the long term, I also see myself contributing to policy advocacy at a broader level, ensuring that community voices shape the policies intended to serve them. Whether through legislation, nonprofit leadership, or strategic advising, I want to stay at the intersection of policy, education, and community engagement. At my core, I want my career to reflect my commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice, which have guided me from the beginning. I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities to create meaningful, lasting change in the spaces I enter. |
Work History
Employer | New York State Assembly |
Occupation | Chief of Staff |
Start Date | January 2, 2024 |
End Date | November 11, 2024 |
Employer | Office of the Brooklyn Borough President |
Occupation | Director of Community Affairs |
Start Date | December 23, 2022 |
End Date | September 8, 2023 |
Employer | Office of the Brooklyn Borough President |
Occupation | Senior Aide (Chief of Staff) to the Deputy Borough President |
Start Date | April 4, 2022 |
End Date | December 23, 2022 |
Employer | The DC State Board of Education |
Occupation | Urban Leaders Fellowship Policy Fellow |
Start Date | February 1, 2022 |
End Date | April 1, 2022 |
Employer | The AnBryce Foundation |
Occupation | Director of Programs |
Employer | New York City Department of Education – Brooklyn Institute for Liberal Arts |
Occupation | Secondary Special Education Teacher |
Start Date | September 6, 2020 |
End Date | September 8, 2022 |