Redistricting Commission Citizen Members
Here are further details about the eight citizens who were appointed to the Virginia Redistricting Commission on January 6, 2021.
The applications can be reviewed in their entirety by clicking here. Excerpts from letters of recommendation may come from more than one letter. The regions are as defined by the Division of Legislative Services in categorizing the more than 1,200 applications it received.
Abrenio, James
Fairfax (Northern). Asian, male, age 37. Democrat. Name forwarded by Senator Louise Lucas.
B.A. Government, University of Virginia – 2005
J.D. Syracuse University College of Law and University of Richmond – 2008
Trial attorney specializing in criminal defense and personal injury law. Established own law firm, Abrenio Law, in 2019. Board member and legislative liaison for National Alliance on Mental Illness of Northern Virginia (NAMI). Active member Fairfax Bar Association and Asian Pacific American Bar Association. 2019 Sorenson Political Leadership Program.
From Personal Statement – “In my criminal defense work, I have seen firsthand how laws passed by our General Assembly can have direct impacts on our community. I have also come to learn more about gerrymandering in Virginia and believe in our state’s desire to end the practice with this Commission.”
Recommendations include – “One of the finest young people I have had the pleasure to work with over all my years in legal education.” “There is not a shadow of a doubt that Mr. Abrenio is applying for this position because he has a sincere desire to contribute to his community.”
Babichenko, Mackenzie K.
Mechanicsville (Central). White, female, age 36. Republican. Name forwarded by Delegate C. Todd Gilbert.
B.S. Forensic Chemistry, George Washington University – 2006
J.D. University of Miami School of Law – 2010
Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney Office for past 6 years. For past 3 years, Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in charge of the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court team. Facilitates Hanover County’s Child Abuse Response Team. Treasurer, Hanover County Bar Association.
From Personal Statement – “I strive to be an active participant in my community and try to give back in whatever way I can. Fairness in representation is at the center of this system. I appreciate the opportunity to be considered for service in such an impactful role.”
Recommendations include – “She has shown true leadership and the ability to accomplish difficult tasks under pressure.” “She will bring a well-balanced perspective to the Commission and will carefully weigh every detail when working the Commission.”
Feliciano, Jose A., Jr.
Fredericksburg (Northern). Hispanic, male, age 52. Republican. Name forwarded by Delegate C. Todd Gilbert.
20-year Marine Corps Veteran, retired.
Since 2009, federal agent with Federal Communications Commission; Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau.
From Personal Statement – “I am very concerned about how redistricting has accrued in the past. I would gladly like to be part of the solution by helping create a fair and bipartisan solution to the redistricting nightmare.”
Recommendations include – “We feel that he would make fair and unbiased decisions with the citizens of Virginia’s best interest in mind.” “Joe has invested numerous hours in our community. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to fulfilling his volunteer obligations are greatly appreciated.”
Gilliam, Marvin W., Jr.
Bristol (Southwest). White, male, age 64. Republican. Name forwarded by Senator Thomas K. Norment, Jr.
B.A. Economics, University of Virginia.
32 years “in and around underground coal mining in state of Virginia.” Retired in 2010 as Vice President, Cumberland Resources Corporation upon its sale to Massie Energy Company.
Active on the board at the University of Virginia’s College at Wise; with the local hospital board; and with the two premier arts organizations in our area, the Barter Theater and the William King Museum of Art.
From Personal Statement – “I value the opportunity to participate in the process of seeing districts formed under state guidelines and in a fair, legal and equitable manner.”
Recommendations include – “He is a consensus builder, thoughtful, and visionary in all issues he approaches. He has served and dedicated himself to improving Virginia by serving on numerous non-profit boards. This broad board services gives him an insightful understanding of the diversity of the people, the interests and the regions in this beloved Commonwealth.”
Harrell, Richard O., III
South Boston (Southside). White, male, age 74. Republican. Name forwarded by Senator Thomas K. Norment, Jr.
A.B. degree, Davidson College, Davidson, NC – 1968
J.D. University of Virginia School of Law – 1973
Ove 40 years managing his own business, R.O. Trucking Inc. in transporting liquid and dry bulk commodities in tank vehicles, mostly in the eastern half of the United States and southern Canada. Board Member, Halifax County Industrial Development Authority. Board Member, Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
From Personal Statement – “For many years, I have been convinced that extremely partisan gerrymandering has been one of the most significant contributors to our increasing political polarization. I am interested in serving as a citizen commissioner so that I can bring my common sense, small town outlook to helping create a better delineation of these election boundaries.”
Recommendations include – “He and R.O. Trucking rightfully earned the reputation of being a premier employer, treating employees and their families with respect and dignity, and generously giving back to community and region with time, money, and leadership.” “One of the most respected and admired business leaders and people in our community.” “Immense impact on thousands of young and older adults throughout our region.”
Harris, Greta J.
Richmond (Central). Black or African American, female, age 60. Democrat. Name forwarded by House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn.
Master of Science, Architecture and Urban Design, Columbia University – 1985
Since August 2013, President and CEO, Better Housing Coalition, Richmond, VA. Have worked in key leadership positions in the community and economic development nonprofit field for more than 30 years.
From Personal Statement – “I love this country! I want to help ensure that every voice and every vote counts and is not negated by gerrymandered lines that silence ideas and concerns.”
Recommendations include – “I know and believe Greta Harris to be a champion of the local community with a deep connection to the region. She is a highly engaged and visible community leader.”
Hutchins, Brandon Christopher
Virginia Beach (Hampton Roads). Black or African American, male, age 39. Democrat. Name forwarded by House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn.
11-year Navy and Iraq War Veteran (1999-2010)
B.S. Health Care Administration
Health care professional for over 20 years. Since 2015, project management, provider data management and network support consultant for Anthem Inc. Member Board of Directors, Virginia Beach Community Development Corporation.
From Personal Statement – “The citizens want to know and feel like they are truly represented without being disenfranchised. This is an opportunity to assist my beloved State of Virginia and I am more than happy to do my part on behalf of all of us.”
Recommendations include – “Brandon is a born leader; people of all stripes are attracted to him for his good nature, his deep interest in others and his sense of duty to his fellow citizens.”
Kumar, Sean S.
Alexandria (Northern). Multi Race, male, age 41. Democrat. Name forwarded by House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn.
B.A. American Government, University of Virginia – 2001
J.D. University of Richmond School of Law – 2005
M.B.A. Darden School of Business, University of Virginia – 2019
Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership – 2005
Captain, U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps, 2010 – 2017. Service in Korea, Kosovo and Afghanistan. Reserve Officer, 2019 to present.
Strategic advisor and legal counsel, Gartner, Inc. – 2017 to present.
Board of Directors, Northern Virginia Regional Parks Authority
From Personal Statement – “This Commission will help to draw the foundation of representative government in Virginia for the next decade and I would be honored to contribute.”
Recommendations include – “Sean is a lifelong Virginian who possesses the experience and judgment Virginia needs for this Commission.” “Mr. Kumar’s knowledge of the intersection of constitutional law and public policy, and his commitment to diversity, equality, and public service, all make him superbly qualified to serve Virginia and the Commission.”
–Fran Larkins, LWV-VA Fredericksburg