Past President
Dr. Darryl Heller
Dr. Darryl Heller is the director of the IU South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center and an assistant professor of Women’s and Gender Studies. After receiving his BA in Philosophy from the College of Charleston in the early 80’s, Darryl spent 20 years working in the fields of human services, community development, and political activism. While living in New York City he earned an MA in American Studies from Columbia University. He also co-founded of the Amistad Institute, a nonprofit organization with the mission to design, develop, and implement educational programs for inner-city communities.
Dr. Heller came to the Midwest to pursue additional studies and earned his PhD in History from the University of Chicago. Since arriving in South Bend in 2015, he has brought his extensive experience as an organizer and activist to the work of the CRHC, transforming it into a vibrant hub of activity in the fight for civil rights and social justice. He also teaches and facilitates discussions on the difficult topics of the history of racism and white supremacy, race construction, and the intersection of race and gender. He currently serves on the board of the Community Forum for Economic Justice, Imani Unidad, the Restorative Justice Collaborative Hub, and the ACLU of Indiana.
Current President
Trina Robinson
Trina is a lifelong advocate for justice and community empowerment. Trina stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice in South Bend. As the President of the South Bend NAACP, Community Forum for Economic Justice, and Community Action for Education (CAFÉ), she has dedicated her life to confronting systemic inequality and fostering meaningful change. In addition, Trina serves as Chair for the Reparatory Justice Commission, further solidifying her role as a leading force for progress in her community.
Raised in South Bend, Trina’s activism was ignited at a young age, inspired by stories of tenacity and leadership within her family and community. Observing the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in her city, she was driven to take action and became the youngest President of the South Bend NAACP, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
Throughout her tenure, Trina has invested countless hours in advancing the NAACP’s mission to eradicate race-based discrimination and promote equality for all. Her leadership has been particularly noted in mobilizing the community against the re-structuring of the South Bend Community School District and Plan Z, demonstrating her ability to unite diverse voices in pursuit of justice.
Trina’s advocacy extends beyond education reform. She has been instrumental in organizing community forums and leading grassroots campaigns that champion fair housing, equitable education, and police accountability. By working collaboratively with city officials and community leaders, Trina has helped to create platforms for dialogue, action, and sustainable change.
After a distinguished 30-year career at Crowe LLP, Trina transitioned into her current role at Geminus Community Partners. Here, she continues her commitment to community service, focusing on programs that support families facing adversity and helping them stay together through challenging circumstances. Her work with Geminus Community Partners is a natural extension of her lifelong dedication to service and empowerment.
Trina’s journey embodies the spirit of activism, compassion, and leadership. Her efforts have not only shaped policies and improved lives in South Bend but have also inspired future generations to stand up for justice and equality. Through her roles in various organizations and commissions, Trina continues to be a catalyst for positive change, always striving to build a more inclusive and equitable community for all.
Past President
Regina Williams-Preston
As a public-school teacher, community organizer, and former South Bend Common Councilwoman, Regina Williams-Preston leverages political power for equity in schools, city government, and neighborhoods. Her advocacy has been the catalyst for structural changes that promote equity in institutions throughout the City of South Bend. As former president of the Community Forum for Economic Justice, Regina helped organize campaigns to help city leaders, from the school board to the city administration, create people-centered policy with all stakeholders at the table.
Currently, Regina is a Program Director at the Institute for Social Concerns at the University of Notre Dame where she works with faculty to develop mutually beneficial partnerships for community-based research projects with a focus on cultivating justice and human flourishing in South Bend. Recognizing the intersectionality of education, economic justice, and human and civil rights, her professional work is focused on making positive change that people can see, touch, and feel RIGHT NOW!