Gerod manages the development of policy programs, agendas, and various campaigns focused on decreasing the Opportunity Gap and furthering the mission of the Forum. He ensures that the strategic objectives of the organization, our partners, and funders are fulfilled. He also oversees the production of policy positions, as well as the organization’s campaign and advocacy work.

Prior to joining the Forum team, Gerod gained over 10 years of experience in campaign development and community engagement. He gained most of his experience in grassroots organizing and engagement as a Youth Field Organizer with the Behavior Change organization, Rescue Agency. There he  obtained experience in the planning and implementation of hands-on activities and programs to encourage and stimulate individual learning amongst youth and adults. From there, Gerod helped in framing several campaigns, including Virginia’s 24/7. This campaign, now a statewide policy, aimed to create tobacco-free schools by updating existing policies to include all tobacco products, signage, and cessation assistance. This led Gerod to becoming the Campaign Manager of the CounterBalance campaign in Vermont. Gerod’s dedication to government relations, community engagement, organizing led his career to the American Heart Association where he operated as the Community Advocacy Director for the Greater Washington region.

Originally from Rochester, NY, Gerod moved to Washington, DC to attend the Historically Black College, Howard University. There he received his BA in Political Science and extensive amount of education and professional experiences. He hopes to continue of the mission the Forum and aide in creating more equitable communities for all individuals to succeed.