Alyia Gaskins, Alexandria's newly elected mayor, reflects on her roots, journey to public service, and what it means to lead the city at such a historic moment. In this exclusive interview with Greet Del Ray, she shares her experiences, inspirations, and vision for Alexandria’s future.

Gaskins grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where “As a child, I loved spending time with my friends. I played lacrosse and also did cheerleading,” she says. Her single mother worked two jobs to support the family. “It was tough, but my mom and grandmother made sure I had access to a good education,” she adds. That support laid the foundation for her academic and professional journey. She went on to study at Vanderbilt University, where she majored in medicine, health, and society before going on to the University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a Master’s in public health.

Her path led her to Alexandria, where she and her husband, Greg, as well as their beagle, settled and eventually had their children, Ezekiel and Eliana. Over the years, Gaskins became deeply involved in local organizations such as the Transportation Commission and Hunger Free Alexandria. "Having children only deepened my love for Alexandria," she shares. "I want this city to be the best possible place for my family and for everyone."

At Georgetown University, Gaskins pursued her second Master’s, this time in Urban Planning. “I took courses like ‘Planning for Health’ and ‘Placemaking and Management,’” she recalls, “which equipped me with the tools to address urban challenges and design cities that work for everyone.”

Her education and career experience led her to serve on Alexandria's City Council, where she worked to address the city's challenges in the wake of COVID-19. “I knew that my background in public health and urban planning could make a difference in how the city navigated the lingering effects of the pandemic on health and well-being,” she says.

For Gaskins, the motivation to enter politics came early. She remembers being inspired by the words from Micah 6:8, “What does the Lord require of you but to seek justice.” This calling, combined with her desire to ensure that cities function for all their residents, drove her to seek public office. “What I love most about serving is working directly with residents to solve real problems,” she notes.

Gaskins’ family life is centered on her West End Alexandria home, where she lives with Greg, their son, 4, daughter, 2, and their beagle. “I love cooking and doing arts and crafts with my kids,” she says. “I also enjoy hosting parties and planning for holidays. It’s a chance to create experiences for my loved ones.”

Balancing her role as mayor with family life is no easy task. “There is no such thing as balance the way we typically define it,” she laughs. “Instead, I try to create harmony. I prioritize time with my family and set boundaries so I can get the work done.” Her approach involves close collaboration with her family and aide to keep everything running smoothly.

Gaskins has a special connection to Del Ray. “Del Ray is magic. It’s where I found community as a new mom,” she says. “It’s where my daughter takes dance lessons and where we go for burgers and tacos when I need a break from cooking.” For Gaskins, Del Ray embodies the spirit of Alexandria: neighbors taking care of neighbors. She credits the community for educating her on local issues, from flooding to small business concerns.

The West End, where Gaskins launched her mayoral campaign, also holds a special place in her heart. “I held my kick off at Indochen in Cameron Station is a restaurant with deep meaning for my family and my neighborhood,” she shares.

As Alexandria celebrates its 275th anniversary, Gaskins sees the city's future as one of opportunity and new ways to activate residents in shaping our future. “Your city needs you,” she encourages aspiring leaders. “We’re facing complex challenges, but your perspectives are crucial in turning these challenges into opportunities.”

Her message is clear: “I’m excited not only to serve you but also to work with you to keep moving our city forward.”

As the first Black woman to be elected mayor of Alexandria, Gaskins' victory represents a significant milestone in the city's history. She is ready to lead, with a vision rooted in equity, community, and progress.

 

1780-81 – Robert T. Hooe (Alexandria’s first mayor before joining the District of Columbia {DC})
1801-02 – George Taylor (First mayor while included within DC)
1847-49 – William Veitch (First mayor after retrocession of Alexandria back to Virginia)
1991-96 – Patsy Ticer (First female mayor)
2003-16 – William D. Euille (First Black mayor)
2025 --? -  Alyia Gaskins (First Black female mayor)