Geraldine Hayes Nelson holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from Kent State University and has held various leadership roles, including Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies.

A proactive educator and community leader, she advocates for change on issues of discrimination, and social injustice. She has served in multiple community-based organizations and received numerous awards for her work. She is the past President of the Portage County NAACP. She enjoys focusing on issues affecting single parents, women and youth initiatives.