TWO RIVER CONNECT

For over a decade, Dyese Davis has been a transformative leader, crafting impactful policies and championing social justice initiatives that uplift communities. Inspired by the belief that equitable access to resources and opportunities can transform lives, she has dedicated herself to creating meaningful and lasting change in New Jersey.

While earning her Criminal Justice degree at Rutgers University, Davis began her legislative journey as an intern with the 11th Legislative District Office. Her sharp political instincts and unwavering commitment to public service fueled her rapid ascent, progressing from intern to Events Coordinator, then Constituent Services Director, and ultimately Deputy Chief of Staff. In August 2020, she was named Chief of Staff to Senator Vin Gopal, a role she expanded in January 2024 to lead the entire LD11 Delegation. Davis has also lent her expertise as a consultant for the 2022 Apportionment Commission and as a senior consultant for the District 11 Legislative race and the Monmouth County Democrats.

As Chief of Staff to State Senator Vin Gopal and Assemblywomen Margie Donlon and Luanne Peterpaul, Davis continues to craft policies that address critical issues and improve the lives of New Jersey residents. Her work reflects a deep desire to bridge gaps, foster equity, and inspire future generations to make a difference.  In July 2024, Davis was elected Monmouth County Chairwoman, becoming the first Black woman to hold the role. This historic achievement underscores her commitment to breaking barriers and amplifying underrepresented voices.

Beyond her legislative career, Davis’s leadership extends to numerous community roles. She serves on the Board of Trustees for Brookdale Community College, is Vice-Chair of the Neptune Township Planning Board and the Affordable Housing Alliance. A fellow of the New Leaders Council and a recipient of a Master’s in Social Work from Rutgers University, Davis combines her expertise with an unwavering mission to empower and serve.

Davis has a passion for literature. When not crafting impactful policies, she can often be found at book club, diving into spirited discussions about one of the nearly 200 books she’s devoured since becoming Chief of Staff for Team Monmouth—a testament to her love for both words and ideas that inspire change.

Margo is a recent graduate of Brown University, where she studied International and Public Affairs. She interned at the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York as a paralegal and is very enthusiastic about geoeconomics. She identifies as an avid theater lover and champions Two River especially, where she passionately followed Be More Chill’s journey from Red Bank to Broadway. She is always excited to encourage more newcomers to the theater!

Vanessa Ramalho is Director of External Relations at ArtPride New Jersey, where she leads advocacy and government affairs efforts that advance policies supporting a thriving and sustainable arts sector in New Jersey. With nearly 20 years of experience in nonprofit arts and culture, she has worked across advocacy, fundraising, community engagement, education, and organizational leadership.

Vanessa is a mom of nine (three human kids, four chickens, a dog, and a cat) who enjoys spending time in her garden, attending live music performances, playing the harp, practicing pole dance fitness, and studying Filipino Martial Arts. She is passionate about building community, creativity, and connection both in her professional and personal life.

Montez Swartz is a student leader, public affairs professional, and advocate for civic engagement and educational opportunity. A graduate of Brookdale Community College, he served as Graduate Trustee, where he worked to strengthen communication between students, administrators, and the Board of Trustees while championing initiatives that enhanced the student experience. Passionate about storytelling, leadership development, and public service, Montez is committed to building connections across diverse perspectives and creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue. Through his work in education, politics, and community engagement, he seeks to empower others to become active participants in shaping their communities.