Leadership

Renay Grace Rodriguez

President

R. "Renay" Grace Rodriguez, Esq. (she/her) boasts an impressive history of dedication and service to the community. An intermittent Stonewall volunteer for many years, she cemented her commitment in 2019 by becoming a lifetime member. Renay has held numerous positions within the organization and community, including roles on the Endorsement and Pride Committees, serving as Stonewall's representative to the Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley, and the esteemed title of Political Vice President.

While her list of achievements is long, Renay's journey to success has been fraught with challenges. From grappling with homelessness to battling addiction and PTSD due to childhood trauma, her past is a testament to her resilience and determination. Yet, despite these hardships, today, Renay stands firm in her belief in progressive values. She ardently advocates that no one in our nation should ever suffer from hunger, homelessness, lack of education or business opportunities, or be denied healthcare, equity, and inclusion. She stresses that these are not free handouts but a conscious choice we can make as a society to pool resources and ensure that no one goes without.

Renay's personal journey has been transformative. Celebrating 29 years of sobriety and 18 years free from crippling depression, she's a beacon of hope and inspiration. Alongside her wife, Eileen, the couple raises three feisty kitties and cherishes moments like their Sunday Harley rides and mutual adoration for the 49ers.

In the political realm, Renay's activism is unwavering. She is the Co-Chair for the CADEM Small Business and Professions Caucus, an active member of several other caucuses, an ADEM Delegate for the 40th Assembly District, and holds positions in various Democratic clubs.

Apart from politics, Attorney Rodriguez wears the hat of a successful businesswoman. She runs her Probate, Estate Planning, and Real Estate litigation practice in San Fernando Valley, displaying her expertise as a certified bankruptcy specialist and speaker at various seminars. Her contributions extend to other community involvements, such as her roles in the Chatsworth Porter Ranch Chamber of Commerce and Chatsworth Neighborhood Council, showcasing her holistic approach to community service.

In essence, Renay's life is a blend of triumph over adversity, relentless service to her community, and an unwavering commitment to justice and progressive values.

 

Michael Colorge

Vice President, Operations

Michael Colorge (he/him/m), a dedicated member of the Stonewall Democratic Club for over 20 years, has served under 6 presidents and been on the leadership team since 2002. He played a key role in streamlining the Endorsements Committee during his 12-year tenure and contributed to the improvement of the 'Stonewall Questionnaire.'

Beyond Stonewall, Michael holds positions as the Recording Secretary for the Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley (DPSFV) and VP of Political Partnerships at Pilipino American Los Angeles Democrats (PALAD). He was also one of the first members of Stonewall Young Democrats (SYD) and served as its president for four terms, earning him the honor of having the SYD Michael Colorge Volunteer of the Year award named after him.

Aside from his political engagements, Michael works as a Product Manager for a tech firm. In his free time, he enjoys indulging in hobbies such as Star Trek, LEGO, tequila, and exploring Southern California's restaurants and cuisine with his boyfriend.

You can follow him on social channels under @cam2go

Chris Baldwin (She/Her)

Vice President, Financial Development

Chris Baldwin (She/Her), is a Combat Sports Conditioning Coach and owner of Fight Goddess, LLC. She’s an author, a Navy vet, a patented inventor, and creator/producer of the Women’s Freedom Festival in Los Angeles. Chris is also the Founding President and current VP of The L-Project LA and serves as a guide for the Queering The Path organization in San Diego.

Bobby Rimas

Vice President, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Mr. Bobby T. Rimas is an Associate Professor at California State University, Los Angeles, an Adjunct Instructor at West Los Angeles College, and an Adjunct Faculty Member at the University of La Verne. He is also a Paralegal for a Downtown Los Angeles law firm that specializes in complex litigation matters. He is the author of several social justice articles and serves as a Commissioner for the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission where he was elected in 2024 by the Commission to serve as its Equity & Social Justice Liaison.

Mr. Rimas served as President / Chair for two Los Angeles-based non-profit organizations and is very passionate about Diversity, Equity & Inclusion matters.  In 2020 and 2021, he served on the National Association of Legal Assistants' Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Committee where he wrote about DE&I matters and moderated a national discussion regarding DE&I.  In 2023, he was appointed Chair of Stonewall Democratic Club's DE&I Committee where he previously served as Vice Chair for 2 years. In these positions, he coordinated and co-presented webinars regarding DE&I.  In May 2024, he was elected Vice President of DE&I for the Stonewall Democratic Club.

Mr. Rimas earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), a Paralegal Certificate in Litigation/Corporations from UCLA Extension, a Master of Legal Studies degree, cum laude, with a Compliance & Legal Risk Management Concentration from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law, and a Master of Arts degree in Education with a Diversity, Equity & Social Justice in Education Concentration from The University of Texas at El Paso.  He can be reached at [email protected].

Christopher Nikhil Bowen

Vice President, Communications

Chris Bowen (He/him) has served on the Stonewall Steering committee for 5 years and has recently returned to this work in a more engaged way. He has been a member of Stonewall since 2012.

Barbara Steelman

Vice President, Community

In a surprising yet promising turn of events, Barbara Steelman steps into the vibrant role of Vice President of Community Outreach and Events, a position that is not just a testament to her sterling career but also a nod to her undiscovered potential as a social innovator within the organization. The decision came about in a meeting where it was unanimously "voluntold" that she was to steer this new ship, challenging her to marry her numerical genius with a sparkling splash of social synergy.

Steelman's story is one rooted in the world of figures and financial frameworks. A well-acknowledged numbers geek, she has carved a prestigious path at the forefront of financial governance. As the Director of Internal Audit for the Port of Los Angeles, a role she embraced with tenacity and meticulous acumen, Steelman spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at bolstering operational efficiency and maximizing revenue. With a knack for diving deep into data and extracting tangible results, she has been a pivotal figure in the sustained success of the Port of Los Angeles.

Now, as she ventures into the buzzing world of community outreach and events, Steelman is poised to reimagine social engagements with the same level of precision and excellence she has demonstrated in her auditing roles. This new role might seem a far cry from her comfort zone, but those who know her understand the untapped reservoir of social creativity that lies beneath her analytical exterior.

With an education steeped in the prestigious grounds of the University of Southern California, and equipped with certifications that proclaim her proficiency in her field, Steelman is no stranger to embracing challenges and emerging victorious. The transition to a more socially interactive role is seen as an opportunity to not just foster community relations but to also unlock a facet of her personality that has remained unexplored.

An agenda filled with community engagements, outreach programs, and vibrant events awaits Ms. Steelman. The expectation is not just to witness a transformation in the community culture but to also see a metamorphosis in Steelman herself, as she blossoms into a social butterfly, mingling numbers with nuances and audits with affability.

Steelman is ready to channel her inherent knack for optimization and efficiency into creating events that resonate with every member of the community. With a discerning eye for detail, she is set to craft experiences that not only foster camaraderie but are also grounded in sound financial principles.

So, here stands Barbara Steelman, a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the fact that the worlds of numbers and social interactions can indeed collide to create a masterpiece of community harmony. Prepare to witness a delightful amalgamation of fun, fiscal responsibility, and a newfound flair for fostering connections. It's time to see Ms. Steelman reinvent social fun events, showcasing that indeed, she is the perfect choice for such a vibrant, engaging endeavor.

Nico Brancolini

Vice President, Political

Nico L. Brancolini has been active in volunteer politics since his high school days in the Midwest. He has worked for numerous state and federal candidates, including serving as a campaign aide to Senator Barbara Boxer during her 2010 re-election campaign.

 

Outside of his involvement with the Stonewall Democratic Club, Brancolini is an experienced litigator, currently at Frost LLP, with extensive experience in state and federal courts, representing both plaintiffs and defendants. An alumnus of Claremont McKenna College and Loyola Law School, he was the Executive Symposium Editor for the Loyola of Los Angeles International and Comparative Law Review, where he co-organized a symposium on the 70th anniversary of the Nuremberg Trials.

 

His legal expertise includes antitrust, class actions, business litigation, intellectual property, product liability, regulatory compliance, and unfair competition. Brancolini’s practice is marked by innovative litigation tactics and comprehensive strategic advice to clients.

 

In addition to the Stonewall Democratic Club, Brancolini is active in Lambda Legal. Outside the courtroom, he enjoys collecting art, reading (post)modern literature, watching horror movies, and open water swimming.

Steve Rouse (he/Him)

Recording Secretary

Steve Rouse is a professor of psychology, with an emphasis on personality and psychological assessment. He has done research on topics including anti-LGBTQ+ prejudice among Fundamentalist Christians and the ways inclusive churches are able to effectively communicate queer affirmation. He also serves as a volunteer Lifeline crisis counselor with the Trevor Project.

Reuben Zadeh

Controller

Reuben Zadeh has been a member of Stonewall's Steering Committee since 2016. Reuben grew up in the San Fernando Valley and received his AA in Economics from Los Angeles Valley College in 1989 and his BS in Accounting from California State University Northridge in 1992. He has been a CPA in private practice for over 20 years and a lifelong Democrat. Reuben previously served as the treasurer of Democrats for Israel, Los Angeles from 1998 to 2005 and has been involved in Democratic Party activism over the past 2 decades.

Edward Stapleton

Parliamentarian

Edward Stapleton is a dedicated volunteer and dynamic leader, in his third professional career;  Ed’s well-rounded experience grounds him in a solid core.  Sadly, in his school days, Edwardlost 3 of his 10 closest friends to bullying-induced suicide, because they were not accepted for whom they were;  Ed vowed to fight on against bullying in their memory, no matter the consequences.  In Chicago, Edward discovered the solace of the sea, which has culminated in Ed’s license as a 500 ton Near Coastal “captain,” where he is further ordained in Los Angeles as a minister and has comforted approximately 800 mourning families in their time of need, scattering at sea the ashes of their dearly departed loved one. Professionally, a nationally recognized designated Accredited Senior Appraiser, Edward flew from Chicago around the United States documenting valuations of trophy properties from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina to Madonna, California.  Edward’s visits to the diverse and inclusive Los Angeles Area drew him to move here to LA in 2000.  Ed honed his leadership skills when he taught 1st grade for 4 years in LA Unified, proud of his 80 students who scored highest on English literacy three years out of the four.  Ed accepted a position with the City of Los Angeles as a Real Estate Officer in City Hall in 2005 under Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer, Jr., and later promoted to LAX where he served as the Business Relationship Manager representing the City to LAX tenants American Airlines, United Airlines, Federal Express (FedEx), and collaborated seamlessly.

Politiphobia inhibited Edward until 2016, when Adolf Hitler’s rhetoric echoed from a presidential candidate, and Ed realized, “if it is to be, it is up to me.” At this pivotal moment, Ed joined Stonewall as his chosen family.  Stapleton served as Chair of Credentialling, later Budget Chair, and currently Parliamentarian and Bylaws and Reform Chair.  Ed helped Steve Bott found the Stonewall Leadership Academy, and was selected to join the inaugural cohort of students. Stapleton served with Stonewall as a Precinct Chair for the Nevada State Caucus in March 2020 in person on site.

Edward’s other posts synergistic with Stonewall include 4 years as President of CLEA, the City of Los Angeles LGBTQ+ Employees Association; 1 year as WeHo Commissioner of Public Facilities (Heilman);  2 years as founding Secretary of WINGS, the Women Innovating and Networking Groups at LAX; 4 years as Secretary and 3 as President of other small local democratic clubs; 8 years as Secretary, and 3 as Scholarship Chair, of LACEAAA, the Los Angeles City Employees Asian American Association; 1 year as Area Director for Toastmasters International District I; and service as a speaker for California Clean Money Campaign.  Stapleton has organized grass roots support for various candidates’ campaigns.

Jasmyne Cannick

Self-Identified Female At-Large Member

Jasmyne Cannick is a journalist, political strategist, and unwavering advocate for marginalized communities. With a Gen X perspective, she's been a fearless voice at the intersection of race, politics, and social issues for years.

From the newsroom to the streets, Jasmyne has tackled pressing national and local issues, including politics, foster care, public safety, criminal justice reform, women's rights, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ racism, homophobia, voting rights, and homelessness. 

Jasmyne's government experience spans the California State Assembly, the House of Representatives, and Los Angeles City Hall. Over the years, she's advised mayors, city councils, and non-profits through her role as a political and public affairs consultant.

She's also made her mark as a producer and documentary filmmaker, with projects like "41st and Central: The Untold Story of the Los Angeles Black Panthers."

Beyond her professional life, Jasmyne openly shares her personal journey, including her foster care experience, struggles with food dependency, body positivity, and hysterectomy due to fibroids. She's passionate about plus-sized fashion and supports body-positive brands.

In 2020, she was elected to represent Assembly District 57 in the Los Angeles County Democratic Party and hosts the podcast series "Ring the Alarm with Jasmyne Cannick," focusing on the murders of queer individuals in Jamaica.

 

Nadia Sutton

Self-Identified Female At-Large Member

DR. JIRAIR RATEVOSIAN

AT-LARGE MEMBER

Dr. Jirair Ratevosian (he/him) has over two decades of experience in public service, non-profit, private sector, and diplomacy. He is a global health security and public health leader renowned for bringing communities together to solve major challenges. Dr. Ratevosian has a distinguished track record of forging partnerships with governments and international organizations to advance global health and HIV initiatives, and for developing bipartisan political coalitions in support of public health. As a community organizer and public health doctor by training, Jirair has spearheaded global health advocacy efforts, resulting in raising billions of dollars for the global HIV/AIDS response, modernizing laws and policies in
line with public health evidence, and promoting global peace and justice for genocide survivors. From 2021-2023, Jirair served as Acting Chief of Staff and Health Equity Advisor to Ambassador John Nkengasong at the U.S. State Department. Prior to that, he served as the corporate social responsibility director for a large biopharma company and as legislative director to U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee. In 2023, Dr. Ratevosian launched a historic bid for Congress, driven by a vision of a more equitable, inclusive, and healthy society. Jirair holds a doctoral degree from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, an M.P.H. from Boston University, and a B.S. from UCLA.

June Paniouckine (Any)

At-Large Member

June Paniouchkine joined the Stonewall Democrats in early 2023 and began serving on the Steering Committee as Vice Chair for Political Action soon after. June currently attends UCLA, where she studies public policy and politics with a focus on LGBTQ+ and youth advocacy. She earned UCLA's Ronni Sanlo Emerging Leaders Award for her work at and beyond the university. A Los Angeles native, June has long involved herself in LA politics, but has become increasingly involved in state and national politics by serving on several campaigns, working for the House of Representatives and, most recently, by launching her political consulting firm, June Primary Strategies.

Alex Mohajer (He/Him)

President Emeritus

Alex Mohajer is an award-winning independent political writer and commentator, advocate, and organizer. In 2021, he became the first millennial and first Iranian American elected President of the Stonewall Democratic Club, the nation's oldest LGBTQ+ feminist political advocacy organization. He previously served as the Public and Media Relations Chairman, where his organizing efforts around the 2020 US presidential election earned a 2020 Truman Award. 

As a journalist, Mohajer has written for USA Today, Huff Post, and Medium, and in 2018, his criticisms of the Trump Administration won the 2018 Excellence in Journalism Award for Excellence in Feature Writing from the National Association of LGBTQ Journalists. He holds a B.A. from UC Berkeley and a J.D. from Chapman University School of Law.