Dara Gaines - Arkansas

Dara Gaines is a native of Ogden, AR. She earned a combined Bachelor's degree in Political Science and African American Studies from the University of Arkansas in 2017 and in 2019, earned her Master's degree in Political Science from Northwestern University. She is presently a Ph.D. candidate in the Northwestern Political Science Department. Her dissertation explores how rural African Americans experience political incorporation in the South. Professionally, Dara works as a consultant with research groups, political organizations, and campaigns.

Recently, Dara implemented a statewide field strategy as the Deputy Field Director for the Chris Jones for Governor campaign. She joined the Lambda Theta (Nothing Greater) chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated in 2016 and remains a proud member of the organization. She is also a member of the National Conference of Black Political Scientists.