Leader of Shenango Valley Urban League Appointed to State Advisory Commission

A local community leader is among those appointed to serve on Gov. Josh Shapiro’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs.

Dr. Erin Houston, President and CEO of the Shenango Valley Urban League (Farrell, PA), was among 27 people appointed to the commission’s 2025-27 advisory board, according to a press release issued Monday by the governor’s press office.

Houston said she was honored to serve in this capacity for the commission.

“I appreciate and do not take lightly the responsibility for serving on a commission such as this,” Houston said.

According to the press release, the commission’s purpose is to:

•Gather information regarding African American Pennsylvanians’ experiences and needs.

•Review, evaluate and assess programs affecting them.

•Serve as a liaison from the governor’s office to the community, providing information about programs and services that may be relevant to the needs of African American Pennsylvanians.

“These appointments are more important than ever for Black Pennsylvanians as we continue to navigate and confront disparities around health care, education and public safety,” commission Executive Director Sierra Dunn said in the release.

“Each commissioner brings a lived experience, local insight and a passion for delivering solutions that truly meet the needs of our community.”

Houston joined the Shenango Valley Urban League in 2007 and has served in her current role for 10 years.

The urban league provides a variety of services for residents of all ages, including housing counseling; helping people with resumes, cover letters and job searches; youth programming, including the Summer Youth Apprenticeship program; and digital education for senior citizens and homeless individuals.

“It’s fulfilling work being able to help people in the community who don’t need a handout, they just need a hand-up,” Houston said.

“We’re proud to be able to be a resource for the community, and to assist them in their time of need.”

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