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.

Jennifer Harder

Finance Associate

Jennifer (BFA, NYU Tisch School of the Arts) is from Flint, MI and was based in NYC for many years while working as a performer and live event producer. She moved upstate in 2018 and continued working in finance and project management with a focus on artistic and cultural organizations. She served as Director of Operations for a toy company, Operations Manager for the resident chamber orchestra at Carnegie Hall, and Director of Finance for a public relations company. Jenny is delighted to be splitting her time at the Blake Annex between two rockstar non-profits: League of Women Voters NYS and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region. She continues to perform as a trumpeter in several bands.

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.