May Nivar, Community Leader with Experience in Corporate Social Responsibility, Announces Run for Democratic Nomination in House District 57

September 23, 2024

Henrico – May Nivar, a leader in advancing racial, economic, and social equity; a prominent advocate for the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community; and a longtime resident of Central Virginia, has announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination in House District 57. Her campaign has already garnered the support of two prominent Western Henrico notable elected officials, Delegate Rodney Willett (HD-58) and Henrico Commonwealth’s Attorney Shannon Taylor along with numerous community leaders.

“As a mother of two daughters, I feel a deep responsibility to safeguard their future. We’re at risk of losing many freedoms, particularly the ability to make decisions about our own bodies. I’m running to protect our hard-fought rights and ensure all women have access to abortion care, contraception, and IVF.”

May’s passion for uplifting women and her journey in community leadership began at Altria, where she volunteered for numerous initiatives aimed at empowering women, AAPIs, and other often overlooked communities. This led to her co-founding and chairing Altria’s Asian employee resource group and serving on the boards of several AAPI nonprofits. May’s determination and work ethic were deeply influenced by her immigrant family, starting at a very young age when she worked after school and on weekends to help run their small family-owned restaurant.

Because of May’s experiences and efforts, Governor Terry McAuliffe appointed her to the Virginia Asian Advisory Board, where she served as Vice Chair and Chair. Governor Ralph Northam recognized May as a “Noteworthy Asian Pacific American of Virginia” for her leadership and resilience.

At Altria, May leads initiatives that inspire over 6,000 employees, the majority of whom live and work in the Greater Richmond Region, to engage in community giving, volunteering, and civic action. May and her husband are proud parents of three adult children—two daughters and a son. All three graduated from local public schools and have attended or are attending state institutions of higher education.

“In addition to protecting a woman’s right to choose, we must fully fund our public schools, expand access to affordable healthcare and prescription drugs, and stop gun violence to keep our communities safe. We also need to invest in good-paying jobs and the economy, ensure equal protection under the law, and combat climate change. As your Delegate, I will work tirelessly on these issues. These are not just policies; they are personal commitments. Growing up in an immigrant family, I learned the value of hard work and the pursuit of the American Dream. Together, we can create a thriving community where everyone can succeed. Vote for a future that benefits us all.”