The LGBTQ+ Democrats of Mecklenburg County

Jeremy is an active member of the Democratic Party in Mecklenburg County, currently serving as Chair of Precinct 74 (Barclay Downs) and as the Treasurer of the Young Democrats of Mecklenburg County. Jeremy was born and raised in Mecklenburg County and is active in supporting Democratic causes in anyway possible, whether that be knocking doors, phone banking, or organizing around our core democratic values.

Melissa is a distinguished K-12 educator with over 15 years of experience, and currently serves as the District 1 Board of Education member. She has spearheaded efforts for pro-public education and organized teacher marches to Raleigh. Melissa made history in 2022 as the first openly queer member elected to the Charlotte Mecklenburg School Board, showcasing her commitment to diversity and leadership. With a multifaceted career spanning education, media, and political activism, Melissa continues to make strides in fostering inclusivity and community engagement and is excited for the work of the board in the coming year.

As an original member of the statewide LGBTQ+ Democratic Party and the Mecklenburg County LGBTQ+ Democrats LaWana has been actively serving the community in various capacities for over 30 years in Charlotte, NC and beyond. LaWana was elected to Charlotte City Council in 2011 as a district representative and in 2022 as a At-Large Council member where she currently serves.

Rob Keast is currently serving as Vice Chair of the LGBTQ+ Democrats of Mecklenburg County. He began his career in public service as an AmeriCorps*VISTA member on the US/Mexico border and later served in senior leadership roles at national policy organizations in Washington, D.C., including Third Way and the Progressive Policy Institute. Now based in Charlotte, Rob runs a consulting practice supporting nonprofits, associations, and civic initiatives. He is a volunteer at Time Out Youth in Charlotte, a board member of both Equality North Carolina PAC and the national Victory Fund. He is also Vice Chair of Precinct 10 for the Mecklenburg County Democratic Party.

Morgan is the treasurer. They've been treasurer for a bit more then a year. They prefer spreadsheets over being social so you might not have met them.

Heidi is a dedicated community leader and advocate within Charlotte’s LGBTQ+ community. As Secretary of the LGBTQ+ Mecklenburg Democrats, she uses her experience in event planning, social media strategy, and community organizing to support the chapter’s mission of equality and representation. Heidi is the lead organizer and curator of events for Lesbian Friends of Charlotte, creating spaces where sapphic women can connect and build community. She’s passionate about making Charlotte a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone.

Laurie Grauer brings a rich and varied background to the Mecklenburg LGBTQ Democrats Board, with professional experience as a teacher, social worker, Program Manager, and Director of Community Relations in the nonprofit sector. Originally from Chicago and now rooted in Charlotte, Laurie has a long-standing passion for community engagement and advocacy. In her time with Meck Dems, she’s served as Secretary, First Vice Chair, Chair, and has volunteered with the Canidate Score Card Committee since its inception. When she’s not championing causes close to her heart, Laurie works as a wine consultant and educator—where she happily geeks out about grape varietals and food pairings. She's also a fan of reading, being outdoors, and dabbling in stand-up comedy-especially after a wine tasting!