The Hamilton County Democratic Party (HCDP) has announced that two well-experienced women have declared their candidacies to represent the North Central District on the Fishers City Council, succeeding outgoing Councilor Samantha DeLong.
Crystal Neumann and Chauna Leigh P. Holder met with HCDP Chair Dayna Colbert ahead of Thursday afternoon’s filing deadline to discuss their experience and vision for the Fishers community.
Crystal Neumann, D.B.A.
Neumann
Crystal Neumann is a Latina, first-generation American, and currently serves as the Assistant Provost for the American College of Education. Possessing a doctorate in business administration, Dr. Neumann has previously worked in marketing and market research before making the transition to higher education. In 2020, Dr. Neumann was inducted into the Indiana Latino Leadership Circle in 2020 and has previously been recognized as an honoree of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Excel 2017 for her continued commitment to making education affordable and accessible.
Dr. Neumann says her unique background as a first-generation American has fueled her passion to make a difference in her community.
“My experiences, and listening to the experiences of others, have prepared me well to represent all members of our community,” she said. “There is no more important time than now to support equity, diversity, and inclusion within our government institutions.”
She has been a Fishers resident since 2012 with her husband Jörg, sons Eli and Anton, and her two dogs Tippy and Chorizo.
Chauna Leigh P. Holder
Holder
Chauna Leigh P. Holder is a career healthcare professional currently operating as a Division Nurse Specialist for Indiana Department of Health and is pursuing a terminal degree to become a Nurse Practitioner. In addition to serving as the Director of Nursing at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Chauna has previously sat on numerous boards for community organizations, including Emerging Pearls Foundation, Center of Wellness for Urban Women, and the Warren Adult Education Advisory Board.
In 2000, Holder was the first person of color (POC) registered nurse hired by the Hamilton County Health Department and she says she plans to continue her history as changemaker and voice for underrepresented groups if elected to the Fishers City Council.
“Being the first, and oftentimes only, POC in the room allows me to provide a unique perspective that can help develop effective policies for our city,” Holder said. “To keep Fishers moving forward, I aspire not just to be a voice for underrepresented groups, but also a champion of transparency, fiscal responsibility and thoughtful governance.”
She has been a Fishers resident since 2016 with her son, Chase.
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The caucus vote will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 25 and is closed to the public due to coronavirus safety protocols. A statement will be released after the completion of the vote.