Representative Shavonda Sumter Contact information

Shavonda E. Sumter (born January 19, 1974) is an American Democratic Party politician who has represented the 35th Legislative District in the New Jersey General Assembly since taking office in January 2012.

Personal Background: Sumter was born in Paterson, New Jersey, the daughter of Charles and Bonnie Williams. She attended public and private schools in Paterson, Prospect Park, and Haledon. She graduated from Kean University in 1996 with a B.A. degree in political science. She later earned an M.B.A. degree in health care administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Career and Advocacy: Sumter has worked in health services for over 20 years, including her role as the director of behavioral health services at Mountainside Medical Center in Glen Ridge. Her advocacy extends to access to health care services, particularly mental health care.

She has been an active member of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee since 2008. In 2010, Sumter served as the campaign manager for Jeffery Jones during his successful campaign for Mayor of Paterson. Additionally, she was one of the members of the electoral college who cast a ballot for Barack Obama and Joe Biden after the 2008 presidential election.

Leadership Roles: Sumter’s leadership within the New Jersey General Assembly has been notable. She held the position of Majority Conference Leader from 2015 to 2019 and served as Deputy Speaker from 2014 to 2015.

Community Involvement: As a resident of Paterson, Sumter is deeply connected to her community. She is married to Kenneth Sumter and has two children: Tyler (born in 1998) and Kenneth Jr. (born in 2000).

Current Role: Currently, Assemblywoman Sumter represents the 35th Legislative District, which includes parts of Bergen and Passaic County. She continues to advocate for health care access and serves as the President and CEO of Children’s Aid and Family Services.