Meet Dr. Natashia Baxter

Candidate for Mount Olive Town Council

Educator. Innovator. Advocate. Community Servant.

Dr. Natashia Baxter is a proud Mount Olive resident, a devoted mother, and a dynamic leader who brings over 25 years of experience in education, public service, and community empowerment. As a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and educator holding an Ed.D., Dr. Baxter has committed her life to uplifting voices, challenging inequities, and building stronger, more inclusive communities.

A trailblazer in the field of education, Dr. Baxter became the first African American principal in the Bloomfield School District, where she broke barriers and pioneered initiatives to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her leadership led to the formation of the Diversity Committee and strong partnerships with the Civil Rights Commission to tackle systemic racial disparities.

A product of a proud military family and civic legacy, both her parents served as Council members in East Orange—Dr. Baxter is deeply rooted in public service. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia State University (cum laude), a Master’s in Urban Education, and a Doctor of Education from Kean University. She also earned her Superintendent Certification from the University of Southern California’s prestigious Urban Superintendent Academy.

Dr. Baxter is the founder of two transformative youth initiatives:

Caterpillars to Butterflies: The Evolution of a Young Lady
B.R.I.C.K.: Brotherhood, Respect, Intelligence, Community, Knowledge

These programs address critical gaps in youth social-emotional development and mentorship, especially in underserved communities.

Recognized for her unwavering dedication, Dr. Baxter has been honored with the Greatest Gift of Love Award and the Civil Rights Flame of Inspiration Award—a testament to her lifelong commitment to justice, compassion, and excellence.

A proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Dr. Baxter is active in civic life through her service on the Mount Olive Democratic Committee and the Woodfield HOA Board. She currently resides in Morris County with her daughter, continuing her family’s legacy of leadership and service.

As a candidate for Mount Olive Town Council, Dr. Baxter is ready to bring her vision, experience, and integrity to the table. Her platform is simple but powerful:

Empower the voices of all residents
Champion fiscal responsibility
Preserve and protect open space
Promote inclusive, transparent governance

Dr. Baxter lives by the belief that “Service is what life is all about.” She understands that great acts are built on small deeds—and she’s ready to get to work for the people of Mount Olive.