SPOTLIGHT RACE: May Nivar for VA-HD57

My story echoes that of many families who came to this country seeking the American Dream—the belief that success is possible through hard work and determination.
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Born in Philadelphia to immigrant parents from China, I grew up in low-income housing and worked at our small takeout restaurant. Through long hours alongside my family and the unwavering support of our community, I learned perseverance, resilience, and compassion—values that continue to shape me.

I put myself through college with grants, student loans, and a job at a local supermarket—where I met my husband, Carlos.
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After college, I built a 30-year corporate career while raising three children, who graduated from Virginia public schools and pursued higher education locally.

As a 20-year Richmond resident, I’ve witnessed the challenges Virginians face—economic inequality, inadequate healthcare, underfunded schools, unaffordable housing, and the erosion of hard-won reproductive and civil rights. Seeing these challenges, I knew I had to act.

Over the past decade, I’ve held leadership roles and served on boards driving change in Virginia. I’ve worked to amplify the voices of women, Asian Americans, and other underrepresented communities. My advocacy led Governor Terry McAuliffe to appoint me to the Virginia Asian Advisory Board, where I served as Vice Chair and Chair, and Governor Ralph Northam to recognize me as a “Noteworthy Asian Pacific American of Virginia.”

At Altria, I lead initiatives empowering over 6,000 employees—most in the Greater Richmond Region—to engage in community giving, volunteering, and civic action.
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With experience spanning small and large business, nonprofits, and government, I’ve stepped up to drive policy change. As Delegate for the 57th District, I will be your voice in the General Assembly. Together, we can build a Virginia where hard work is rewarded, opportunity is accessible, and the American Dream is within reach.


https://www.maynivar.com/home