By Andrea Stevens
AFRO Staff Writer
astevens@afro.com
As Women’s History Month continues, Athena Ware Hernandez and Geri Byrd shine as beacons of leadership, making significant strides as chiefs of staff in the upper echelons of Maryland government. The two women demonstrate excellence and resilience in their field, serving as testament to the power of women in decision-making roles and the lasting impact of female leadership across industries.
(LEFT) Athena Ware Hernandez is the chief of staff for Maryland first lady Dawn Flythe Moore, managing key initiatives.
Credit: Courtesy photo / Raymond J. Hernandez. (RIGHT) Geri Royale Bird serves as chief of staff for Maryland Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller.
Maryland’s first lady Dawn Flythe Moore champions mental health, military families, the arts and women’s empowerment. She hosts an annual women’s empowerment event and opens Government House for programs supporting these causes, including a recent mental health awareness event. Her chief of staff, Athena Ware Hernandez, helps drive these initiatives using her expertise to create lasting impact.
“I apply my skill sets to some very meaningful initiatives for the first lady and for the state and I am proud to be able to do that,” Hernandez said.
With a background in communications and leadership, Hernandez previously held key positions in organizations like the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. She has built a career focused on public service, advocacy and policy advancement, all of which reflect her commitment to community empowerment.
“Public service is one of the highest callings that any of us could ever get—working in service to the greater good, impacting so many areas of people’s lives,” she said. “How we show up for each other helps us take the steps we want to take, both in our professional and personal lives.”
Hernandez is also dedicated to mentoring young women, helping bridge the gap for the next generation.
“I pride myself on always reaching back to young women, mentoring them, giving the same that was given to me and trying to do it tenfold,” she said. “There is a tremendous amount of support available to young Black women that allows them to dream big because there is so much more that is attainable than not.”
She also shared her perspective on facing challenges and how she addresses them.
“We choose how we address our challenges—whether we approach them with the perspective of a positive outcome or with the belief that they will be difficult,” Hernandez said. “I prefer to approach challenges knowing that I can get a positive outcome because my approach to them will be positive. Anytime something challenges how you work or the work that you do, I think there’s an opportunity for growth.”
Geri Royale Byrd serves as chief of staff for the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, bringing over 30 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. A Baltimore native, Byrd’s career is marked by a steadfast commitment to public service and community engagement.
Byrd began her public service journey under the Obama administration as a correspondence analyst for Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner in the Office of Financial Stability. She later served in the Baltimore City Mayor’s Office as director of logistics and special assistant to the mayor, eventually rising to the position of deputy chief of staff.
Byrd’s extensive experience and dedication to service continue to drive positive change and improved outcomes for Marylanders. In her current role, she supports Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller in advancing key policy areas, including transportation, mental health and STEM equity. She also plays a pivotal role in the Council on Interfaith Outreach, aiming to foster religious tolerance and serve diverse communities across Maryland.
Byrd’s leadership is defined by a commitment to progress, collaboration and meaningful change. Through her work with the lieutenant governor, she continues to champion initiatives that strengthen communities and enhance the well-being of Maryland’s citizens.
The impact of leaders like Hernandez and Byrd extends beyond their offices. Their dedication to excellence, advocacy and innovation exemplifies the power of women in leadership. As more women rise to positions of influence, their success serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
During Women’s History Month, Hernandez and Byrd are celebrated for breaking barriers, redefining leadership and creating pathways for others. As Hernandez said, “Your career should support who you are, not define who you are.” Their stories highlight that when women lead, industries transform, communities thrive and the future becomes brighter for all.
