2024 Grand Marshal: Regina Pixley

CEO & Founder of Regina’s Place and Ward 8 Committeewoman, Regina Pixley announced as Grand Marshals for the 19th Annual MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk and Parade on January 15, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Regina Sharlita Pixley, a native Washingtonian, was born and raised in the esteemed Ward 8 in Southeast Washington DC. She completed her early education at Henley Elementary School, Patterson Elementary School, Friendship Educational Center, and graduated from Douglas Middle School. Later residing with her grandmother in Northwest DC, Regina graduated from Coolidge Senior High School.

Embarking on her professional journey early on, Regina proudly joined the Marion Barry Summer Youth Program at the age of 13. Her academic pursuits led her to the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), where she successfully obtained her LPN after completing a course of study in nursing. A pivotal realization that she could not stomach the sight of blood led Regina to acquire her CDL, transitioning to a decade-long career driving school buses for both PG County Public Schools and DC Public Schools.

In 2004, Regina furthered her career by obtaining her SPO (Special Police Officer) license. Initially providing school security services on an MPD contract for DC public school students, she later transitioned to the government sector, where she currently assumes the responsibility of securing DC government buildings.

Regina, often describing herself as having multiple lives, cherishes her roles as a family woman—a mother and grandmother of six. She adores her four granddaughters and two grandsons, who consider her their Shero. Beyond her family life, Regina actively engages in her church, work, and community life. As the CEO and founder of Regina’s Place, a faith-based non-profit supporting families affected by gun violence, suicide and overdose, she passionately serves her community. In 2014, community-oriented members in Ward 8 approached Regina to run for ANC (Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners) both of which she successfully achieved. She won two campaigns in one year serving as the former ANC for AC04 and presently holding the position of Ward 8 Committeewoman.
Ms. Pixley’s commitment to serve her community is largely guided by lessons from her grandmother, “If you’re not at the table, then you’re on the menu”

At the age of 53, Regina recently discovered that she has dedicated more than half of her life to community work. She considers it an honor and a privilege to serve her community, uplift and empower others, and be on the front lines of the fight to change and impact lives. To God be all the glory, as proclaimed on her license plate with the inscription PSALM 116, Regina Sharlita Pixley identifies herself as God’s servant.