Mia Schultz As a mixed-race Black woman, Mia brings a wealth of personal experience and unwavering commitment to her role, advocating for truth, healing, and reconciliation within Vermont's diverse communities.
Originally hailing from the southwestern deserts of Arizona, Mia embarked on a transformative journey from Southern California, eventually finding her home in the town of Bennington, Vermont, in 2016. Her dedication to advancing civil rights and education has earned her prestigious accolades, including being recognized as a human rights champion by both the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Education Association.
Mia's dedication to uplifting marginalized voices extends beyond her role as Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner. Currently, she serves as the President of National Advancement for the Association of Colored People (NAACP), a volunteer position that requires an intricate understanding of civil rights, policy, legislation, and advocacy for disenfranchised and often invisibilized communities. Mia's influence also resonates through her participation on various boards including service to the State of Vermont Ethnic and Social equity standards working group which was tasked with developing educational standards that are inclusive to all students. This service coupled with her development of culturally appropriate curricula addressing issues of race and racism has demonstrated a dedication to equity within Vermont schools.
In an historic milestone, Mia Schultz became the first Black woman to assume the role of Chair for the Bennington Democratic Party, a testament to her devotion to shaping more inclusive and diverse political landscapes. Beyond her leadership in formal institutions, Mia has dedicated herself to training and empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women, BIPOC, people with disabilities, and those with intersecting identities, in the art of leadership development. Her work as a community organizer has mobilized communities to address systemic issues and enact positive change.