Our team

SAMARIA RICE

As a mother, political advocate, and the founder and CEO of the Tamir Rice Foundation, Ms. Samaria Rice proudly serves as an advocate for juvenile rights in Cleveland, Ohio. Since the murder of her 12-year-old son Tamir by Cleveland Police in 2014, Ms. Rice has committed her life to being on the frontlines for change.

Samaria’s passion for civil rights reaches across lines of difference, uniting us all to work towards change. Following Tamir’s death, Samaria has used her voice in the service of her son’s legacy.

Samaria encourages us to take back our communities by standing up for justice, her voice resonating with many mothers and children in our community. She has become a motivating force for families and communities across the nation.

Naudia Loftis

Naudia is an activist and organizer from Cleveland, Ohio. She has over 7 years of experience working in efforts against gun violence, racial injustice and educating students on advocacy. Her recognitions include The Robert F. Kennedy Urban Education Award and the MyCom Youth Voice Award. Recently, her focus has been on working with nonprofit organizations that prioritize creating safe spaces for youth growth and enrichment. She is a graduate of John Carroll University with her Bachelor of Arts in Communications and also attended Saint Martin de Porres high school. Naudia has been working with The Tamir Rice Foundation since 2017 and is currently a board member.

Nicole taylor morris

Nicole Taylor Morris (she/her/hers) is a womanist bioethicist, scholar-activist, doula, and movement chaplain and healer. She is a graduate of Harvard Divinity School with a Master of Theological Studies focused on the intersections of Black women and community’s health, community-centered healing, and the role of spirituality in wellness. She is also an alumni of Tufts University (’18) with a BA in Community Health. Nicole is currently a board member for the foundation.