Charon L. Rose is a trailblazing public affairs and policy practitioner with more than a decade of experience driving legislative initiatives, shaping government programs, and fostering cross-sector collaboration. As a first-generation college graduate, her journey embodies resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to breaking barriers through advocacy and leadership.

Charon currently serves as the Chief of Public Affairs for the Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission, where she leads communications, legislative affairs, and stakeholder engagement for one of the state’s newest independent regulatory bodies. In this role, she shapes public trust and transparency, builds coalitions across government and industry, and ensures equitable implementation of Rhode Island’s adult-use cannabis market.

Previously, Charon made history as the first Black Deputy Treasurer in Rhode Island’s history, serving as Deputy Treasurer for Financial Empowerment and Community Outreach under General Treasurer Seth Magaziner. There, she advanced financial literacy statewide, championed and secured the passage of personal finance education legislation, and managed complex stakeholder and legislative strategies that delivered lasting impact.

Her political and civic leadership extends beyond government service. Charon played a pivotal role as Deputy Field Director in Jorge Elorza’s successful mayoral campaign, which resulted in Providence electing its second Latino mayor. She also broke barriers as the first Black president of the Young Democrats of Rhode Island, continuing her track record of opening doors for future leaders.

Charon also brings her expertise to the nonprofit sector through significant board leadership roles. She is the Board Chair of Boys Town New England, Secretary of the Board for Social Enterprise Greenhouse, and a Board Member of Justice Assistance. In these capacities, she drives governance, strategy, and community impact across youth services, social enterprise, and criminal justice reform.

She earned her Master of Public Administration from Clark University and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, with a concentration in Public Relations, from Rhode Island College. She is also an alumna of New Leaders Council Rhode Island, where she strengthened her leadership toolkit and built a network of changemakers.

From financial empowerment to cannabis regulation, and from nonprofit leadership to political advocacy, Charon has established herself as a dynamic, visionary leader dedicated to equity, innovation, and public service.