Langley Park, MD – CASA is proud to welcome a dynamic group of new leaders whose professional expertise and lived experiences reflect the rich diversity of the Black, Latine, immigrant, indigenous and working-class communities the organization serves. With backgrounds in advocacy, organizing, and equity-focused leadership, the new team members bring both academic excellence and practical knowledge to advance CASA’s mission of justice and opportunity.
“Starting this year, CASA’s work to combat injustice and inequity will grow tremendously, especially with these pioneering women,” said Executive Director Gustavo Torres. “As we head into our 40th year, we are stronger with the leadership of Crisaly, Shamaine, Terra, Jackie and Shahadah.”
Crisaly De Los Santos, Baltimore and Central Maryland Director:
A proud Afrolatina, Crisaly De Los Santos grew up with CASA. Beginning her journey with CASA as a high school student in the Mi Espacio after-school program, Crisaly’s journey with CASA is a true grassroots story of inspiration and transformation. Captivated by the power of community and the collective strength of the immigration movement, she began attending CASA rallies as a teenager, where her passion for advocacy and organizing began. Eager to make a difference, she stepped into the role of an elections canvasser for CASA in Action during the 2018 elections, work that resulted in the successful election of pro-immigrant Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. Her dedication and leadership quickly propelled her to serve two terms on CASA in Action’s board, where she contributed to advancing the organization’s mission. In 2021, Crisaly took on the role of Youth Program and Education Manager, channeling her experiences into creating safe spaces, mentorship opportunities, and programs that empower youth to lead and thrive. Her commitment to building collective power and uplifting immigrant communities has been a guiding force throughout her journey. Now, as the Director of Baltimore and Central Maryland, Crisaly continues to inspire those around her, driven by the same passion that first brought her to the movement.
Shamaine Daniels, JD, Pennsylvania State Director: A Venezuelan-born attorney, Harrisburg City Council Member, and previously endorsed CASA in Action political candidate, Shamaine Daniels brings a wealth of experience in immigrant rights, municipal governance, and community organizing to CASA. Her accomplishments include successfully litigating Lozano v. City of Hazleton, creating Harrisburg’s first foreclosure registry, and re-establishing the Harrisburg Human Relations Commission. Shamaine has focused her career on ending poverty and gender discrimination; crises exacerbated worldwide by the mistreatment of migrating families. With her deep understanding of immigration law, policy, and grassroots mobilization,Shamaine will serve CASA’s members in Pennsylvania and beyond.
Terra Montgomery-Nelson, MBA, as Director of People and Culture: Terra Montgomery-Nelson’s story is one of passion, purpose, and a vision for creating meaningful change. With nearly two decades of professional experience in human resources and social justice advocacy, Terra is dedicated to building an inclusive culture that reflects CASA’s mission. She sees her work as an opportunity to walk new paths alongside her team, overcoming challenges and finding strength in collective progress. With her leadership, CASA’s transformation into Radical HR will embody the values of equity and justice, fostering a workplace where every individual is valued and empowered to succeed.
Jackie Thomas-Suggs, Development Director: With over 40 years of experience in fundraising and development, Jackie Thomas-Suggs has successfully led capital campaigns, cultivated major donors, and secured multi million-dollar grants for education and nonprofit organizations. Her proven track record includes leadership roles at Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, the NAACP, and Howard University, driving efforts to diversify funding sources and strengthen organizational sustainability. A proud immigrant with parents hailing from Jamaica and Panama, Jackie is excited to return to her roots in immigrant rights and multiply CASA’s funding sources and individual giving.
Shahadah Allah as Voter Engagement Manager for the Southeast Region: Shahadah Allah’s journey with CASA is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots organizing and storytelling. With deep immigrant roots and strong family ties to the South, Shahadah’s passion for justice is deeply aligned with CASA’s mission of empowering immigrant communities. Her work in Georgia and Virginia programs has showcased her unique ability to connect with people and mobilize communities toward meaningful change. Starting as a canvasser when she was a student at Hampton University, Shahadah not only met and exceeded door-knocking goals but brought creativity and energy to the role by making fun and engaging TikTok videos about canvassing. Her videos resonated with millions, demystifying the work and inspiring people from all walks of life to see themselves as part of the movement. Shahadah is excited to engage voters in the Atlanta region where she grew up and Virginia, where she attended college. Her innovative approach to organizing has bridged gaps and made civic engagement relatable, proving that advocacy is most powerful when it’s rooted in authenticity and shared stories.
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With over 173,000 lifetime members across 46 US states, CASA is a national powerhouse organization building power and improving the quality of life in working-class: Black, Latino/a/e, Afro-descendent, Indigenous, and Immigrant communities. CASA creates change with its powerbuilding model blending human services, community organizing, and advocacy in order to serve the full spectrum of the needs, dreams, and aspirations of members. www.wearecasa.org