Ayana Smith-Kooiman

Ayana Smith-Kooiman is an experienced professional in legislative assistance and community engagement, currently serving as a Legislative Assistant for the Minnesota Senate since January 2023 and as Director for the DFL Senate District 63 since August 2024. Prior roles include Communications and Volunteer Director for Erin Maye Quade for State Senate and Advocacy Fellow for Gender Justice. Ayana has also contributed as a Fellow for Senator Lindsey Port at the Progressive Turnout Project and held internships with Women Winning and The African American Policy Forum. Ayana's involvement in Macalester College encompassed various roles, including Community Engagement Officer, Legislative Politics Preceptor, and Class Representative. Ayana earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Legal Studies from Macalester College, completing studies in 2022.