Meet Freshta

Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to service. I have held leadership roles in non-profit organizations, including serving as Program Director for one of New Jersey’s largest domestic violence agencies.

 My passion for education led me to teach at both the elementary and high school levels, and my work has extended into media, veterans' advocacy, and disaster relief. I currently serve as a mental health professional and faculty member at Virginia Tech’s School of Public and International Affairs, where I contribute to shaping future leaders and providing critical support to underserved populations.

My dedication to serving veterans has been a significant and fulfilling part of my journey. Whether working on disaster relief projects that involved law enforcement and the veteran community or advocating for resources to support their well-being, I am steadfast in ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve. These experiences have further solidified my belief in the importance of creating systems that recognize and honor the sacrifices of those who have served.

In addition to my professional roles, I am proud to co-author a handbook focused on delivering services to vulnerable communities, providing practitioners with tools to foster meaningful change. I am also a business owner with a strong foundation in financial management, and my insights and initiatives have been featured in prominent media outlets like The New York Times.

As a mom and educator, I understand the challenges parents face every day. I am committed to working alongside families to find practical, compassionate solutions that protect and empower our children to thrive.

Over the years, I have been honored to receive recognition for my efforts, including being named by InsiderNJ as a community leader and receiving the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Development’s Eva Stitt Award for outstanding mental health advocacy and support to immigrant communities.

My career has also taken me to the front lines of disaster relief in New Jersey, where I collaborated with law enforcement and veteran organizations to provide immediate and lasting support. These experiences have deepened my resolve to bridge gaps in service and understanding.

At the heart of my work is a mission to create a world where everyone—regardless of background—feels seen, heard, understood, and most importantly, valued. I remain steadfast in my belief that by fostering inclusivity, we can build communities that thrive together.