The Black American Political Association of California - Fresno exists to ensure that equitable access to resources impacting education, employment, and economic development are made available for the underserved residents of Fresno, California.
Our goal is to create a robust and durable network that is has the capacity to:
-
Build resources and structures to assist underserved communities in their pursuit of autonomy
-
Leverage relationships with allies and community partners to ensure that economic and educational resources are equitably distributed.
-
Provide pathways to engagement for community members who desire to be involved in Fresno’s political landscape to ensure that all voices have there rightful place in the conversations that shape the city’s future.
BAPAC-Fresno understands that Fresno has a very diverse and unique make up and our vision is to ensure that the structures of power and influence reflect this diversity at every level of civic engagement.
Our Mission
In our mission as advocates for equity to the African American, and other underserved communities; we are committed to expand our efforts for unity and open-ended inclusion of all persons of goodwill that are willing to partner with us.
Our Executive Board Members
Debbie J. Darden
Chair
Debbie J. Darden is a native of the City of Fresno and a longtime resident of West Fresno. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. Debbie is highly active in her community, advocating for economic development and better education for all students. She is a strong supporter of quality education. Debbie has sought through her advocacy to improve the quality of life for all residents within the community.
Viva Straughter
V-Chair
Viva Straughter is a graduate of Fresno High School. She retired with AT&T after a successful career. She is the Legislative Ambassador for Alzheimers and Executive Product for the Miss Black Fresno & Miss Teen Black Fresno Pageant. She loves to empower others. Viva wants to be known as an Advocate who made a positive contribution in helping to make change in her community, the city of Fresno and the State of California with social justice and equality.
Arrie Smith, Ph.D. is a Clinical Psychologist, Professor at CSPP/AIU and creator for the FCC EOPS/Harambee Program, a strengths-based program for African American (AA) students encouraging community involvement. Dr. Smith spearheaded the FCC Men of Color Mentoring Project – The Brotherhood: Empowering AA Males Toward Excellence. This program is designed to assist students with mapping academic, personal and professional goals, developing leadership skills and increasing their capacity for success. She was also cofounder of the EOPS Nickel & Nail Scholars, a program addressing the needs of students on academic/progress/program probation. She is currently the Counselor/Coordinator of the UMOJA program,
Secretary
Dr. Arrie Smith
Kasan Nichols-Jones is a native of the city of Fresno. She holds an MBA and is Director of Medical Student Services at UCSF Fresno Medical Education Program for the past 15 years. Kasan has worked in healthcare administration for various hospitals across the valley including Saint Agnes, Madera Community and Fresno Heart Hospital. Kasan currently serves as Treasurer of BAPAC Fresno Chapter and is actively involved in community activities including serving as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the West Fresno Family Resource Center.
Treasurer
Kasan Jones
Open
Generational Chair
Open
Chanell Conley
Vice-Chair Generational
Chanell is a native of Detroit, MI who decided to make Fresno a placed called home in 2017. She is an Accounting Major with a minor in Business Administration. Community and youth is her passion in 2019 she founded.
In 2019 Chanell founded a nonprofit Youth Outreach Organization called I am the Crowd, which is primarily focused on providing transitional housing for displaced youth ages 16-25. Chanell is very passionate about changing the narrative for melanated youth; helping them realize their true potential, by breaking curses and building generational wealth. She currently serves as the Vice-Chair of 40 and Under Generational Committee.
Valette
Parliamentarian
Valette Farwell