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LWVNYS Executive Director & Project Staff

Executive Director & Project Staff

Erica Smitka

Erica Smitka


Executive Director

Erica Smitka became the Executive Director of the League of Women Voters of New York State (LWVNY) in July 2024, after joining the organization as Deputy Director in 2022. In her role, Erica champions the League’s statewide advocacy efforts, collaborating with 40 local Leagues to educate and engage voters across New York. Her work focuses on driving impactful policy change and supporting voter empowerment through strategic advocacy and education initiatives.

Before joining the League, Erica worked in federal grant development and program management. She has also worked in fundraising, grant management, and as an organizer and campaign director across several states, including California, Colorado, and Massachusetts. Her diverse background includes strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and direct program work with various nonprofits.

Erica holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration (MPA), specializing in nonprofit management, from Syracuse University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

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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 wearing a black sleeveless top, black headband, and gold necklace is smiling against a plain background.

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.

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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.