Shelby talton
Shelby Talton is a government affairs professional with a proven track record in legislative policy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic advocacy. She began her public service career on Capitol Hill in the office of Congressman Marc Veasey, where she advanced to Legislative Assistant and managed a diverse policy portfolio, including health care, immigration, education, and veterans affairs.
Shelby later served in the White House’s Office of Management and Budget on the legislative affairs team, supporting interagency policy coordination and congressional outreach. She now brings her expertise to Truist, where she works on the legislative relations team, driving strategic policy initiatives and strengthening relationships across the public sector.
Shelby is passionate about creating meaningful policy solutions and remains committed to advancing equity, opportunity, and effective governance at the intersection of the public and private sectors.
johna mitchell
Johna is a dynamic digital strategist and creative storyteller known for transforming ideas into impactful, audience-driven content. With over 10 years of experience across political communications, digital media, and production, she brings a results-focused approach to growing platforms, increasing engagement, and amplifying influential voices.
Throughout her career working in both leadership and personal offices in Congress, Johna has developed and executed innovative digital strategies that connect policy to people. Her work has helped shape national conversations, strengthen online communities, and significantly increase follower growth and engagement across multiple platforms. She is recognized for her ability to translate complex issues into compelling, accessible content that resonates with diverse audiences.
With a strong foundation in production, Johna continues to maintain a hands-on role in creative development, from concept ideation and scripting to filming and content execution. Her production experience allows her to think beyond traditional social media strategy, bringing storytelling, visual direction, and audience experience together to create content that is both engaging and impactful. Whether developing digital campaigns, producing video content, or supporting live and virtual events, Johna blends strategy with creativity to deliver polished and meaningful results.
In addition to her political communications experience, Johna has supported social media strategy and creative content development for Zion Church’s Landover and Anywhere campuses, helping strengthen digital engagement and expand online reach through storytelling and production-driven content.
A proud North Carolina native and graduate of Saint Augustine’s University, Johna earned her bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and Broadcast Journalism. Her creativity, strategic mindset, and continued involvement in production make her a versatile communications professional with a proven track record of increasing followers, strengthening engagement, and delivering impactful messaging across platforms.
Taylor Johnigan
Taylor, is a charismatic leader, dedicated student, and passionate advocate for community empowerment. A proud student at the University of North Texas, Taylor balances her academic pursuits with an impactful career in public service, demonstrating perseverance, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to civic engagement.
Beginning her professional journey as an intern for Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33), where she gained firsthand insight into legislative processes and constituent services. This formative experience strengthened her passion for public service and prepared her for increasingly impactful roles on Capitol Hill. She went on to serve as a Staff Assistant in the office of Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), where she honed her skills in legislative support, constituent relations, and office operations—all while leaving a lasting impression through her southern charm and professionalism.
Currently, Taylor serves as a Operations and Outreach Coordinator at the Congressional Black Caucus PAC (CBC PAC). In this role, she uplifts the Members of the Congressional Black Caucus by advancing their priorities and connecting emerging leaders to public service opportunities.
Taylor’s story is one of ambition paired with purpose. Whether in the classroom, on Capitol Hill, or in her community, she continues to create meaningful change, build lasting connections, and inspire others to engage in the democratic process.
Karissa Hylton
Karissa, is a passionate advocate for positive change, a dedicated public servant, and a lifelong learner committed to making an impact at every level. With a deep-rooted belief in the power of effective communication and public policy, she has dedicated her career to shaping narratives that inform, inspire, and drive action.
Karissa began her journey in public service as an intern in the office of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), where she gained firsthand experience working within the heart of legislative decision-making.
Currently, Karissa serves as the Press and Digital Assistant in the office of Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), where she plays a crucial role in shaping and disseminating the senator’s message. In this role, she manages press relations, oversees digital content creation, and ensures that Senator Sanders’ outreach remains effective and impactful.
With a keen eye for storytelling and a commitment to progressive change, Karissa continues to build a career centered on advocacy, media, and governance. Whether amplifying policy initiatives, crafting compelling digital content, or engaging with the press, she remains dedicated to fostering a more informed and engaged public.
Driven by a vision of a more just and equitable world, Karissa is always seeking new opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful change.
Aaliyah Tabor
Aaliyah, is a government operations professional with experience in both the White House and the Hill. A graduate of the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a minor in Mandarin Chinese, she brings both operational expertise and a global perspective to her work.
She began her career in public service with the Mayor’s Office of International & Immigrant Affairs in Atlanta, gaining experience in local government and community engagement. She then joined the district office of Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-07), supporting constituent services and office operations. She later transitioned to the Biden-Harris Administration, where she managed communications, and assisted with facilities and administrative functions across the Executive Office of the President Complex.
Following her time at the White House, Aaliyah returned to Capitol Hill as a Staff Assistant for the House Committee on Homeland Security Minority. There, she supported committee operations across multiple subcommittees, contributed to the preparation of materials for congressional hearings, and managed the committee’s internship program.
Across her roles, she has remained grounded in service, focused on keeping operations running smoothly and ensuring that government work serves both people and communities effectively, with an awareness of global implications.