Our mission at the Office of Social Equity is to provide resources and support for historically disadvantaged individuals and businesses seeking to enter the Maryland adult-use cannabis industry. Led by Executive Director Audrey Johnson and her team who report directly to Governor Moore, the Office of Social Equity - through programs, outreach, and advocacy - cultivates an adult-use cannabis market that encourages full participation.
The State of Maryland has committed unprecedented resources to promote and encourage equitable access and participation in the adult-use cannabis market. The Office of Social Equity plays a pivotal role in creating and sharing resources towards advancing equity and economic prosperity.
Meet the Team
Audrey Johnson, Executive Director
Audrey Johnson was appointed by Governor Wes Moore as the inaugural Executive Director of the Maryland Office of Social Equity. She brings more than a decade of experience leading programs and strategies that promote economic development, equity, and inclusion.
Prior to this role, Johnson served as Senior Director for Economic Innovation and Strategy at Johns Hopkins University and Health System, where she led anchor institution initiatives across Baltimore—including community investments in housing, healthcare, and education. She previously held leadership positions at Kaiser Permanente, where she oversaw supplier diversity, procurement systems, and economic impact strategy.
Johnson is an active civic leader, serving as Immediate Past President of the Baltimore Chapter of the National Association of Health Services Executives and as a board member to organizations including iMentor Baltimore and Art with a Heart. At OSE, she is focused on building a cannabis economy rooted in equity, opportunity, and restoration.
Courtney Davis, Deputy Director
Courtney Davis was appointed by Governor Wes Moore to serve as Deputy Director of the Office of Social Equity. She brings deep expertise in cannabis policy, government affairs, and public engagement.
Before joining OSE, Davis served as Executive Director of Marijuana Matters, a national advocacy organization focused on advancing economic inclusion and restorative justice in cannabis policy. She previously led the organization’s public affairs and government relations work, and spent over six years in the office of U.S. Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado, where she held a variety of legislative and communications roles.
Davis is committed to building a fair and inclusive cannabis industry in Maryland.
Dejah Desiree, Chief Strategy Officer
Dejah Desiree Williams serves as Chief Strategy Officer at the Maryland Office of Social Equity, where she leads cross-agency initiatives to drive long-term, systemic impact.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Texas A&M University and a Master of Public Policy from Northeastern University. Williams has worked at the local, state, and federal levels of government, with a policy portfolio that includes labor, healthcare, reproductive justice, and criminal justice reform.
A proud military brat and Washington, D.C. native, Williams brings a deep commitment to public service and equity. At OSE, she works to ensure that Maryland’s cannabis reforms are anchored in opportunity, accountability, and lasting community benefit.
Rahsaan Peak, Senior Advisor
As Senior Advisor at the Maryland Office of Social Equity, Rashaan Peak provides strategic guidance on cannabis equity policy, inter-agency coordination, and business development.
He works closely with the Maryland Cannabis Administration and Department of Commerce to align licensing and technical assistance programs with the state's equity goals. He also plays a key role in designing training initiatives and building a supportive ecosystem for social equity licensees.
Peak brings a diverse background in pharmaceutical and medical device sales, as well as hands-on experience as a cannabis entrepreneur. His work is grounded in transparency, community reinvestment, and sustainable economic growth for Maryland’s emerging cannabis market.
Sirita Wright, Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Sirita Wright leads communications and public affairs for the Maryland Office of Social Equity, bringing more than two decades of experience at the intersection of culture, policy, and narrative change.
Her strategic storytelling, media engagement, and community-driven messaging have helped position Maryland as a national leader in cannabis equity. She has connected hundreds of minority-owned businesses to state resources, led high-impact campaigns, and represented OSE at major industry events.
With a background that spans fashion merchandising, spiritual leadership, and community initiatives, Wright views communications as a powerful tool for cultural healing and systemic change. She brings clarity, creativity, and cultural fluency to every touchpoint—helping Maryland communities learn, grow, build, and thrive.
Alana Hodge, Program Management Analyst
Alana Hodge is a Program Management Analyst at the Maryland Office of Social Equity, where she supports program implementation and outreach strategies that advance equity in cannabis.
A graduate of Villanova University with a degree in Political Science and Peace and Justice, Hodge brings a strong foundation in policy research, digital communications, and event planning. She previously interned with REFORM Alliance as a Court Watcher, where she worked to improve transparency and accessibility in the justice system.
Hodge is deeply committed to social justice and has volunteered with advocacy organizations across the DMV. At OSE, she brings her lived experience and diverse skillset to support communities historically excluded from state economic opportunities.
Joshua Harris , Communications and Digital Media Assistant
Joshua Harris is a passionate digital marketing specialist at the Office of Social Equity. Where he blends creativity, strategy, and community-driven impact. A proud Baltimore native and Randallstown High School alumnus, Joshua’s journey began with a heart for service, earning his CNA certification and supporting others through healthcare and advocacy.
Today, he channels that same drive into promoting equity and inclusion through innovative campaigns, social media storytelling, and public engagement initiatives. With a sharp eye for content, a deep love for photography, and a background in media, Joshua helps shape narratives that resonate and mobilize.
Joshua is committed to pushing culture forward and creating meaningful change.
