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Rev. Dr. Eric D. Nelson
NAN|CO Chapter – President
Rev. Dr. Eric D. Nelson. serves as President which include; Colorado chapter.
Rev. Dr. Eric D. Nelson is a dedicated entrepreneur, author, and life visionary with a lifelong commitment to social justice, community service, and public leadership. He earned his PhD from Christian Bible Institute & Seminary, holds a Graduate Certificate in Biblical and Theological Studies from Denver Seminary, and received an honorary Doctorate in Public Service from the Denver Institute of Urban Studies and Adult College. As a small business owner of an insurance company and investment firm based in Aurora, Colorado, and a former banker, he brings extensive experience in business and finance to his advocacy work.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a native of Georgia, Rev. Dr. Nelson has served the Aurora community for over twenty-five years as a community and political organizer. His broad expertise includes certifications as an Certified Addiction Counselor I, Unlicensed Psychotherapist, Certified Family Mediator, Unlicensed Psychotherapist, Child Family Investigator, Restorative Justice Facilitator, and Assisted Living Administrator. He also contributed to academia as an Adjunct Professor at Colorado State University in Fort Collins.
Before being appointed President of the National Action Network Colorado in January 2025, Rev. Dr. Nelson served as Vice President, where he acted as a vital liaison to local governments, community groups, and religious organizations. Throughout his tenure, he championed critical initiatives and reforms in education, mental health, police accountability, homelessness, and climate change. Additionally, he served as an elected official on the Aurora Public Schools Board of Education, demonstrating his deep commitment to improving educational outcomes.
Rev. Dr. Eric D. Nelson’s multifaceted background and unwavering dedication make him a powerful advocate for social justice and community empowerment across Colorado.
Lakisha Payton
NAN|CO Chapter – Vice President
Lakisha is a dedicated leader, community advocate, and youth development specialist with a passion for empowering underrepresented communities. With a strong background in program management, civic engagement, and social justice initiatives, she has spent years creating opportunities that foster success for young people. From overseeing youth sports programs to spearheading impactful community service projects, her work exemplifies a steadfast commitment to equity, inclusion, and leadership development. As a proud mother of five, she understands the transformative power of service and is devoted to building sustainable pathways for individual and community growth.
Lakisha served as the Organization Manager for Spillionairs Youth Sports Organization from 2019-2024. This dynamic organization is committed to empowering and uplifting young individuals through sports. As the Organization Manager, Lakisha oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring that the sports programs and initiatives effectively address the needs of the youth and help them develop essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
Lakisha is actively involved in various esteemed community organizations. From January 2021 to December 2023, she demonstrated her dedication to service as the Community Service Chair for The Urban League of Young Professionals Metro Denver. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of Vice President at the National Action Network Colorado, where she contributes to important initiatives and advocacy efforts. Furthermore, Lakisha is honored to be a member of the Denver Foundation Advisory Committee for Community Impact, a role she has held since October 2022. Additionally, she serves as a Community Grant Program Reviewer for the Denver Foundation, utilizing her expertise to ensure impactful funding decisions.
With an educational background that includes an Associate of Liberal Arts degree in Sociology, Lakisha has developed a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of society and the challenges faced by minority communities. As a proud graduate of the Urban Leadership Fellows Connect class of 2020, she has further honed her leadership skills and gained valuable insights into effective community engagement strategies.
Lakisha's steadfast focus is on advancing progress in minority communities, particularly within the black community. She is unwavering in her commitment to creating opportunities and driving meaningful change. Through her work, Lakisha strives to empower individuals, foster inclusivity, and advocate for social justice.
Miah Ntepp
NAN|CO Chapter – Policy Director
Miah Ntepp is a legislative strategist, progressive civil rights fighter,, and political leader based in Denver. A proud local advocate, Miah regularly writes about legislation and policy, bringing a sharp, justice-centered perspective to the issues shaping Colorado and the nation. As a legislative strategist, Miah is committed to advancing equity, uplifting marginalized communities, and pushing for a more inclusive and progressive future.