JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Rod Chapel, the state conference president of the NAACP of Missouri, has added yet another major name to the organization’s executive committee.
Former Gov. Bob Holden, who served from 2001 to 2005, will join the board and help steer an organization that has undergone a major restructuring effort since Chapel came into office.
“We are honored to have Governor Holden as a part of the work that the Missouri NAACP has set out to do,” Chapel said in a statement. “Gov. Holden has proven Missourians that he is an advocate for diversity, inclusion and equality. Gov. Holden’s extensive policy experience will make him a valuable asset to the Missouri NAACP.”
Chapel went on to say that Holden offered a lot in terms of diversity and inclusion.
“Governor Holden is well respected across Missouri as a consensus and collation builder, a doctrine and vision that we welcome at the Missouri NAACP,” Chapel said. “As we work to improve the brand of the Missouri NAACP, it is our hope that Governor Holden will send a strong message that it is a new day at the NAACP.”
Jane Dueker, a St. Louis-based attorney and former chief of staff to Holden, agreed with Chapel’s assessment. She was named to the committee in January.
“Bob can work with people and can build coalitions,” Dueker said. “He is somebody who can bring people together from all different walks of life.”
Dueker added that during Holden’s time in office he appointed more African-Americans and women to important positions of power in the cabinet, and on various boards and commissions than any other governor in state history – an even more impressive feat considering he only had four years to do so.
“I’m absolutely thrilled that Gov. Holden has been appointed to the executive committee,” she said. “He won’t brag about himself, but I can brag about him.”
Esther Haywood, a former state representative and current President of the St. Louis County NAACP, served under Holden when she was a representative. She said he would be an asset to the organization.
“I found him to be both inclusive and an advocate for the under-served,” Haywood said. “I look forward to serving alongside him at the Missouri NAACP. Gov. Holden Brings much needed policy experience and diversity to the Missouri NAACP State Conference.”
