LWVNYS Executive Director & Project Staff
Executive Director & Project Staff
Erica Smitka
Executive Director
Most recently, Erica worked in development and program management at Policy Research Associates, Inc. She worked to expand the reach of PRA’s projects through the development of proposals, management of contracts, and evaluation of programmatic funds, while also managing the Social Security Administration’s ARDRAW Program.
Throughout the years she has worked with a number of non-profits in a variety of capacities – in development offices, doing direct program work, strategic planning, and developing frameworks for data-driven decision making. Erica earned her Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA), with a focus on non-profit management, from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Prior to attending graduate school, Erica worked as an organizer and campaign director. In this role, she fundraised for non-profits and worked on a variety of political campaigns in California, Colorado, and Massachusetts.
Erica holds her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from SUNY Geneseo, with a dual minor in History and Anthropology. As an Albany native with a passion for grassroots activism, Erica is thrilled to be a part of the League.
Virginia Gokhale
Finance Administrator
Virginia has worked in nonprofit finance for over 20 years, and has served as the Director of Finance for several small nonprofits. Virginia seeks to support mission-driven organizations by applying a common-sense approach, focusing on increasing the transparency and efficiency of financial tracking, reporting and planning.
Virginia received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from SUNY Oswego, a Masters in Taxation from SUNY Albany and is a licensed CPA in the state of New York. She has taught the basics of business accounting to entrepreneurs and college students. In her spare time, she participates in animal rescue, serves as a volunteer usher for music and performance venues, and acts as a patient advocate. Virginia is excited to join the League of Women Voters and support their mission.
Xavia Francis
Program and Office Coordinator
Xavia Francis is a City of Albany native and recent graduate of the University of Albany earning her Bachelor’s in Arts studying Journalism.
For the past two years Xavia worked as an Administrative Assistant with the City of Albany Office of Audit and Control. She leveraged her leadership and interpersonal skills to drive impactful initiatives in the areas of youth development, community service and event coordination. As founder of Captured by Xavia Cimone, she uses her expertise in photography, video editing and graphic design to create engaging content that reflects and promotes the work of organizations she supports. She enjoys creating amazing memories for people to share.
As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Xavia has a focus on innovative approaches to community service, and is determined to give back and create lasting, positive change. In her new role as Program and Office Coordinator, Xavia looks forward to the work she will do with the League.
Clyanna Lightbourn
Campaign Director
Clyanna Lightbourn is an activist, organizer, facilitator, and educator with over 15 years of experience in racial, social, and economic justice. A Miami native and the daughter of immigrant parents, she has dedicated her career to mobilizing communities, shaping policy, and building grassroots power. She has organized large-scale protests, including one of Albany’s largest demonstrations during the George Floyd Summer, led advocacy efforts that contributed to major legislative victories, and developed community-driven programs to expand civic engagement.
Her experience includes working in the New York State Senate, leading digital organizing initiatives, and serving as a civil rights organizer to amplify movements and drive systemic change. Beyond organizing, Clyanna is a certified doula committed to ensuring that Black and marginalized birthing people have access to safe and affirming birthing experiences. She has participated in panel discussions on racial justice, movement-building, and civic engagement.
Clyanna holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Union College and is pursuing a Master’s in Forensic Mental Health at Russell Sage College.