OFFICER QUESTIONNAIRE

Stephen Miller-Pitts

Office Applying For: Chair

Why do you wish to run for this position?

I am running for the chair position because I am passionate about advancing progressive and inclusive policies in Chesterfield County.

I understand the importance of diversity and representation in leadership positions.

I believe that my background and experiences uniquely qualify me to lead the Chesterfield County Democratic Committee (CCDC) in a progressive, diverse, and innovative direction.

What are your priorities for CCDC and how would you implement them?

My priorities for CCDC are to:

- Support and promote Democratic candidates who prioritize equity, justice, and inclusivity.

- Increase voter registration and participation, especially among underrepresented communities.

- Foster a strong and active Democratic Party organization in Chesterfield County.

To implement these priorities, I would work closely with the Candidate Development Committee to identify and support qualified Democratic candidates.

I would also collaborate with the Membership Committee to engage new members and ensure their active participation.

Additionally, I would work with the Programs, Publicity, and Fundraising Committee to organize events and initiatives that promote Democratic values and engage the community

Describe how you will enlist the help of the new members and at the same time

ensure the continued participation from longtime members.

To enlist the help of new members, I would create a welcoming and inclusive environment within CCDC.

I would actively reach out to diverse communities in Chesterfield County, particularly those that have been historically underrepresented, and encourage their participation in the committee.

I would also organize orientation sessions and training programs for new members to ensure they have the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively.

To ensure the continued participation of longtime members, I would value their experience and contributions. I would seek their input and involve them in decision-making processes.

I would also create opportunities for mentorship and leadership development, where longtime members can share their knowledge and skills with newer members.

Additionally, I would recognize and appreciate the dedication of longtime members through awards and recognition programs.

How would you make CCDC a more diverse organization?

To make CCDC a more diverse organization, I would implement the following strategies:

- Actively recruit and engage individuals from diverse communities, including communities of color, LGBTQ+ communities, and communities with different socio-economic backgrounds.

- Collaborate with local grassroots organizations and community leaders who have expertise in engaging diverse communities.

- Ensure that all committee meetings and events are accessible and inclusive, taking into consideration different languages, abilities, and cultural practices.

- Develop and implement diversity and inclusion training programs for committee members to promote cultural competency and understanding.

- Create spaces for open and honest discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion within CCDC, and encourage members to share their perspectives and experiences.

Describe the positions or involvement you have had with CCDC and/or other

Democratic Committees, and how long have you been involved.

I have been actively involved with CCDC for the past two years. During this time, I have served as a magersterial chair and a member of the Membership Committee.

As a magisterial chair, I have organized voter registration drives, canvassing efforts, and phone banking initiatives. As a member of the Membership Committee, I have helped recruit new members and organize orientation sessions for them.

In addition to my involvement with CCDC, I have also participated in Democratic committees at the state level and as a chief of staff for a member of the general assembly.

These experiences have given me a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the Democratic Party and have prepared me for the responsibilities of the chair position.

Let us know more about other talents and leadership skills or positions you

have held, which would contribute to your effective execution of the job.

In addition to my involvement with CCDC and other Democratic committees, I have held various leadership positions that have equipped me with valuable skills for the chair position.

As an Assistant Professor at Virginia State University, I have developed strong communication and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage and lead diverse groups of individuals.

I have also served as the Chief of Staff for Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., where I have gained experience in managing a large non-profit organization and working with diverse stakeholders.

Furthermore, my experience as a Contracting Officer for the Department of Defense and as a Senior Logistics Manager in the US Army has honed my strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

These skills will be invaluable in effectively executing the responsibilities of the chair position, such as setting agendas, managing budgets, and making informed decisions for the benefit of CCDC and the Democratic Party in Chesterfield County.

Additionally, I have experience in campaigns as a Candidate and having served as the Campaign Manager for a highly competitive state legislative race.

This experience has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies of running a successful campaign and the importance of grassroots organizing, fundraising, and message development.

Furthermore, my academic background in Public Administration and my role as an Assistant Professor in the Political Science and Public Administration Department at Virginia State University have equipped me with a strong understanding of public policy, governance, and effective leadership.

I have a keen ability to analyze complex issues, develop innovative solutions, and effectively communicate them to diverse audiences.

Moreover, I have been actively engaged in community service and advocacy work.

I have been recognized for my volunteer efforts, receiving the President's Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award from President Obama for over 4,000 hours of individual volunteer service.

This commitment to service and my experience working with community organizations have given me a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of the residents of Chesterfield County.

Overall, my diverse background, leadership skills, and experience in various roles make me well-suited to effectively execute the responsibilities of the chair position.

I am committed to promoting progressive values, fostering diversity and inclusion, and working collaboratively to advance the Democratic Party's goals in Chesterfield County.