Lea is an award-winning activist who has successfully bridged the gap between the community and government agencies to bring about positive and lasting change in her community. Her greatest achievement includes being elected as the first--and youngest--African-American representative in the Binghamton City Council. She has 15 years of experience as a Community Organizer leading efforts on various social and environmental justice issues; quality education, health care, access to fresh foods and sustainable jobs. She is the Coordinator of the UDiversity Educational Institute at Binghamton University. This Institute develops and provides diversity and inclusion trainings and programs for faculty, staff, and students at Binghamton University. Through her consulting firm she is working with non-profits and businesses in creating culturally responsive organizations. She is a National Trainer with Vote Run Lead training women on how to run for elected office and Co-Chair/Co-Founder of the Black Millennial Political Convention. She was recognized as one of tomorrow's leaders by Oprah magazine and the White House Project, and was honored with the President’s Award by the Broome-Tioga Branch of the NAACP for her significant contributions to her community.