Allison K. James-Frison Elected Vice Chair of the West Ward Democratic Committee

NEWARK, N.J. (July 8, 2026) — Community leader and public servant Allison K. James-Frison was elected Vice Chair of the West Ward Democratic Committee during the organization's reorganization meeting, adding another milestone to a career dedicated to public service and civic leadership.

A lifelong resident of Newark', James-Frison has spent decades serving the community through elected office, public education, organized labor, youth mentorship, and child welfare.

Earlier this year, in March 2026, she was elected to serve as an Essex County Democratic State Committee Member. In June 2026, voters re-elected her to a second term as a West Ward District Leader, reaffirming the confidence residents have placed in her leadership.

James-Frison previously served as Vice President of the Newark Board of Education, overseeing governance for New Jersey's largest public school district, serving more than 44,000 students. She also completed six years as an appointed Commissioner on the Status of Women for the City of Newark, where she advocated for policies and initiatives supporting women and families.
In addition to her public service, James-Frison serves as a Shop Steward, advocating for workers' rights and fair representation.

Professionally, she is an Investigator with the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCP&P), where she works to protect children and strengthen families throughout New Jersey.

Outside of government service, James-Frison is the Founder and CEO of Girls Live, Love, Laugh Inc. Mentoring and Leadership Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young women through mentorship, education, leadership development, scholarship opportunities, and community service.

"I am deeply honored by the trust placed in me to serve as Vice Chair of the West Ward Democratic Committee," said James-Frison. "Leadership is about listening, serving, and building opportunities for others. I remain committed to working alongside my Chairman Chigozie U. Onyema our committee members, elected officials, and residents to strengthen our neighborhoods and continue moving our community forward.

James-Frison is also the author of The Book of Allison: The Wounds You Don't See, a memoir centered on resilience, healing, and transforming adversity into purpose.
Her election as Vice Chair reflects a continued commitment to public service and positions her to help strengthen Democratic organizing and civic engagement throughout Newark's West Ward.