National-State Representative Harold M. Love, Jr. and State Senator Raumesh Akbari were sworn in today as newly elected officers of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) during the 48th Annual Legislative Conference on Friday at the historic Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C.
Love, Jr. will serve as the NBCSL’s 16th president and Akbari was named president-elect.
Voted into office by their legislative peers, the officers will serve a two-year term from December 2024 through December 2026, bringing a wealth of experience, passion and commitment to NBCSL’s mission. Their commitment to uphold the values, integrity and vision of NBCSL underscores their dedication to servant leadership and responsible governance.
NBCSL’s 2024–2026 officers include:
- Tennessee State Representative Harold Love, Jr., President
- Tennessee State Senator Raumesh Akbari, President-Elect
- New York State Senator James Sanders, Jr., Vice-President
- Texas State Representative Toni Rose, Secretary
- Indiana State Representative Cherrish Pryor, Treasurer
- Maryland State Delegate Ashanti Martinez, Financial Secretary
- Kentucky State Senator Gerald Neal, Parliamentarian
“As we chart the course for the next chapter of NBCSL, I am inspired by the passion and expertise of our newly elected officers. Together, we will get the work done, championing the voices of our communities and passing resolutions that pave the way for meaningful change,” said newly-elected NBCSL President Harold Love, Jr. “I am especially proud to continue the legacy of my father, former Tennessee State Representative Harold M. Love, who was present when the National Black Caucus of State Legislators held their first meeting in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1977. Their vision and commitment to equity laid a foundation that we still uphold and build upon today.”
NBCSL’s new leadership team remains dedicated to advancing NBCSL’s resolutions, fostering strategic partnerships and ensuring that the voices and issues of Black communities remain at the forefront of policy discussions nationwide.
“We are pleased to welcome the new slate of executive officers and look forward to continuing to support the mission of NBCSL with President Love at the helm,” said LaKimba DeSadier, CEO of NBCSL. “Through research, education, and advocacy, NBCSL’s goal is to empower our members to make informed decisions on legislation and public policy so they remain effective and influential voices on Capitol Hill.”
For more information about the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, visit www.nbcsl.org.
