Mayor Cashenna A. Cross
Of
The City of Glenarden, Maryland
~ A Legacy of Service and Leadership ~
Copa: Where are you from?
Mayor Cashenna: I was born and raised in Aberdeen, Mississippi, United States, the youngest of nine children in a family devoted to faith, community, and service. My upbringing instilled in me the values of unity, resilience, and advocacy, shaping my lifelong commitment to leadership and humanitarian efforts.
Mayor Cashenna: I was born and raised in Aberdeen, Mississippi, United States, the youngest of nine children in a family devoted to faith, community, and service. My upbringing instilled in me the values of unity, resilience, and advocacy, shaping my lifelong commitment to leadership and humanitarian efforts.
Copa: Which schools have you attended?
Mayor Cashenna: I hold a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in international relations with a specialty in conflict resolution. Additionally, I have earned honorary Doctorates in Humanitarianism and Philosophy for my service and commitment to global advocacy. My education and military training have provided a strong foundation for my leadership in governance, international relations, and public affairs.
Mayor Cashenna: I hold a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in international relations with a specialty in conflict resolution. Additionally, I have earned honorary Doctorates in Humanitarianism and Philosophy for my service and commitment to global advocacy. My education and military training have provided a strong foundation for my leadership in governance, international relations, and public affairs.
Copa: At what time were you elected as Mayor of Glenarden, Maryland?
Mayor Cashenna: I was sworn in as the 18th Mayor of Glenarden, Maryland, on August 18, 2021, for a four-year term. I am honored to be the third woman to hold this position in the city's 86-year history.
Mayor Cashenna: I was sworn in as the 18th Mayor of Glenarden, Maryland, on August 18, 2021, for a four-year term. I am honored to be the third woman to hold this position in the city's 86-year history.
Copa: What encouraged you to run for Mayor of Glenarden?
Mayor Cashema: My decision to run for Mayor was a God calling 1:47am January 14, 2021. My service has been fueled by my passion for service, my military background, and my commitment to uplifting communities. I’m just not satisfied by the unfortunate status quo which leaves some members of our community lacking and others growing in wealth, noting that ultimately there has to be an honorably strong middle class to sustain America. Having served 20 years as an active-duty officer in the U.S. Air Force and 26 years in the Department of Defense, I developed expertise in leadership, crisis management, and strategic planning which has served not only Glenarden, but 29 bills testified (thus far) into bipartisan either adopted by the county council or as passed by legislators to the Governor for signature in Annapolis. I love serving and am honored to be able to support opening opportunities for greater for all citizens.
I saw an opportunity to bring that experience home to Glenarden—to vocalize ways and means to strengthen our economic development, expand mental health services, enhance public safety, and improve infrastructure. My faith and dedication to community-building inspired me to lead with integrity, transparency, and purpose.
Mayor Cashema: My decision to run for Mayor was a God calling 1:47am January 14, 2021. My service has been fueled by my passion for service, my military background, and my commitment to uplifting communities. I’m just not satisfied by the unfortunate status quo which leaves some members of our community lacking and others growing in wealth, noting that ultimately there has to be an honorably strong middle class to sustain America. Having served 20 years as an active-duty officer in the U.S. Air Force and 26 years in the Department of Defense, I developed expertise in leadership, crisis management, and strategic planning which has served not only Glenarden, but 29 bills testified (thus far) into bipartisan either adopted by the county council or as passed by legislators to the Governor for signature in Annapolis. I love serving and am honored to be able to support opening opportunities for greater for all citizens.
I saw an opportunity to bring that experience home to Glenarden—to vocalize ways and means to strengthen our economic development, expand mental health services, enhance public safety, and improve infrastructure. My faith and dedication to community-building inspired me to lead with integrity, transparency, and purpose.
Copa: What are some important goals you have set for your term as Mayor?
Mayor Cashenna: My administration is focused on transformative initiatives. Absolutely, the divine calling is a constant source of strength and guidance. This calling aligns with my life’s mission to serve others, particularly those who often go unheard. My foundation in the military has taught me that true leadership is not about personal success but about empowering and uplifting those around you, especially in times of challenge. This is what drives me every single day to make Glenarden a better place for all, and it's a reminder that we all have a purpose to fulfill this world. including:
Mayor Cashenna: My administration is focused on transformative initiatives. Absolutely, the divine calling is a constant source of strength and guidance. This calling aligns with my life’s mission to serve others, particularly those who often go unheard. My foundation in the military has taught me that true leadership is not about personal success but about empowering and uplifting those around you, especially in times of challenge. This is what drives me every single day to make Glenarden a better place for all, and it's a reminder that we all have a purpose to fulfill this world. including:
- Economic Development & Small Business Support – Expanding job opportunities and empowering local entrepreneurs.
- Public Safety Enhancements – Strengthening community-policing efforts and crime prevention strategies.
- Infrastructure & Broadband Expansion – Improving roads, parks, and access to high-speed internet for all residents. Personally responsible for supporting 30 seniors’ first-time access to broadband services.
- Mental Health & Youth Engagement – Increasing awareness and support programs for youth, seniors, and veterans—including expanding opportunities through the Forever Grand Travelers of Glenarden and the Creative Youth Arts Summit and Conferences. The Forever Grand Travelers of Glenarden ensures that senior citizens in our community continue to create cherished memories while exploring some of the most breathtaking and historically significant sites across the DMV. Destinations include Luray Caverns, the Harriet Tubman Museum, the Cumberland-to-Frostburg Maryland train experience, and the African American Heritage Museum. Through these enriching experiences, we celebrate lifelong learning, cultural appreciation, and the joy of community engagement. The Creative Youth Arts Summit and Conferences provide a platform for young people to express themselves through the arts while gaining access to mentorship, career development, and mental health awareness resources. This initiative fosters creativity, leadership, and personal growth, ensuring that our youth are empowered to pursue their dreams while strengthening their connection to the community.
- Affordable Housing & Senior Support – Developing strategies to enhance housing and essential services, collaborate with HUD and local housing authorities to strengthen governance policies and involve community input. Improve housing quality through green building incentives and rehabilitation programs. Promote affordability with mixed-income housing and rent subsidies. Expand access to essential services like healthcare, childcare, and job training. Increase housing vouchers and provide financial literacy programs. Strengthen partnerships with nonprofits and use data-driven strategies for better planning and continuous policy evaluation.
Copa: In your opinion, why is leadership crucial to our society?
Mayor Cashenna: Leadership is the foundation of progress and change. Effective leaders create opportunities, drive innovation, and inspire unity. Leadership is about service ensuring that every decision benefits the greater good.
In times of crisis, strong leaders provide stability, solutions, and hope. It is crucial for leaders to be visionary, resilient, and compassionate, fostering environments where individuals can thrive and where communities can build a sustainable future together.
As I continue to lead, I envision Glenarden as a model of equity, innovation, and collaboration. I’m focused on bridging gaps that persist in our society, ensuring that every person—regardless of background—has the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve. With a strong foundation in place, I see Glenarden flourishing in every aspect: from creating sustainable economic opportunities to providing unparalleled support in education, health, and safety. Together, we can build a city where every voice matters, every challenge is met with resolve, and every resident feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Mayor Cashenna: Leadership is the foundation of progress and change. Effective leaders create opportunities, drive innovation, and inspire unity. Leadership is about service ensuring that every decision benefits the greater good.
In times of crisis, strong leaders provide stability, solutions, and hope. It is crucial for leaders to be visionary, resilient, and compassionate, fostering environments where individuals can thrive and where communities can build a sustainable future together.
As I continue to lead, I envision Glenarden as a model of equity, innovation, and collaboration. I’m focused on bridging gaps that persist in our society, ensuring that every person—regardless of background—has the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve. With a strong foundation in place, I see Glenarden flourishing in every aspect: from creating sustainable economic opportunities to providing unparalleled support in education, health, and safety. Together, we can build a city where every voice matters, every challenge is met with resolve, and every resident feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Copa: What are some of the challenges you face in your city that you would like to tackle for the remainder of 2025?
Mayor Cashenna: Some key challenges I have focused on addressing include:
Mayor Cashenna: Some key challenges I have focused on addressing include:
- Public Safety & Crime Prevention – Enhancing safety measures and positive informative community engagement with law enforcement.
- Mental Health & Wellness – Expanding access to resources for youth, seniors, and underserved populations - developing a local support system that goes beyond county-level initiatives.
- Economic Disparities & Affordable Housing – Advocating for policies that support equitable housing and financial empowerment leading to first-time home ownership for some.
- Community Engagement & Government Transparency – Encouraging residents to participate in governance and ensuring accountability.
Copa: What does the future hold for Mayor Cashenna A. Cross?
Mayor Cashena: The future is filled with purpose, service, and leadership. My commitment to humanity extends beyond my mayoral term—I will continue to advocate for policies that promote equality, mental health awareness, economic empowerment, and international collaboration.
As a UN Peace Ambassador, I look forward to expanding my work in global humanitarian efforts. Whether through governance, mentorship, or international partnerships, I remain dedicated to creating a lasting impact locally and globally.
Wherever my journey takes me, my mission remains the same: to serve God, uplift, and inspire. Most importantly to keep; #MovingTheMissionForward!
Mayor Cashena: The future is filled with purpose, service, and leadership. My commitment to humanity extends beyond my mayoral term—I will continue to advocate for policies that promote equality, mental health awareness, economic empowerment, and international collaboration.
As a UN Peace Ambassador, I look forward to expanding my work in global humanitarian efforts. Whether through governance, mentorship, or international partnerships, I remain dedicated to creating a lasting impact locally and globally.
Wherever my journey takes me, my mission remains the same: to serve God, uplift, and inspire. Most importantly to keep; #MovingTheMissionForward!
