Issue Areas: Health and Human Services, Arts, and Utilities

About Makayla: Originally from Alexandria, Virginia, Makayla is a proud graduate of Fairfax County Public Schools. She earned her bachelor's degree in economics from the College of William & Mary from which she moved on to Georgetown University to complete a master's in health and the public interest. Makayla began her career in public service at DC Department of Health, where she worked to support both constituents and patients. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and wonderful rescue dog.

Gianna Juarez

Director of Communications

Issue Areas: Communication, Media and Social Media, Newsletter

About Gianna: A Fairfax County native and proud daughter of Peruvian and Guatemalan immigrants, Gianna previously served as an Associate Director in the White House Office of Presidential Personnel and as a Community Outreach Manager at United Way Worldwide. Gianna previously attended Northern Virginia Community College and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology, as well as a Master of Public Administration degree from Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship & Public Affairs. 

Gianna is passionate about community engagement and building thoughtful, people-centered partnerships. As Director of Communications, she connects with our Mason District residents via, local media outlets, and external organizations interested in partnering with the Mason District Supervisor. 

Angela Gutierrez Mendoza

Scheduler and Policy Aide

Issue Areas: Scheduling, constituent services, official correspondence

About Angela: Angela was born in Peru and has lived in the Mason District area for over 20 years. After graduating from Annandale High School in 2014, she went on to study communications at the Northern Virginia Community College and later at the Falls Church Medical Assistant Academy Program. Angela previously worked in banking and enjoys serving her community. She resides in Fairfax County with her husband and their two children. 

Devin Pharr

Chief of Staff

Issue Areas: Public Safety, Budget, Taxes, Administration, Staff Coordination

About Devin: Devin brings a wealth of management experience to the Mason District Office following a successful career in property management. During his time in the county, he served on the Board of his neighborhood’s Civic Organization, including Chairperson. His commitment to local leadership led him to Fairfax County government, where has served in Board offices since 2023.

In his current role, Devin focuses on public safety, budget and taxes, and overall administration while also supporting the rest of the Mason District team. He lives along Arlingon Blvd. with his wife and their dog.

Vanessa Simpson

Policy Director

About Vanessa: Vanessa comes to our office with an abundance of professional experience; from both within Fairfax County and in the private sector. As Policy Director she will be assisting our staff with Legislative matters and will be serving Mason Residents with Transportation among other issue areas. 

She is a graduate of James Madison University and enjoyed working for State Legislators and the county, in addition to work with the grocery store chain, Lidl. She currently resides in Fairfax, VA.

Ervin Uriarte

Deputy Chief of Staff

Issue Areas: Land use (DPD, permitting), housing (non-homeless related), parks (Culmore Day, Summer Series), environmental issues, code compliance

About Ervin: Ervin, a Fairfax County native, is a staffer for the Mason District Supervisor, specializing in land use. Ervin leverages his deep community roots to shape responsible development policies. Committed to transparency, he engages with residents and collaborates with county departments to ensure public input in all aspects of the land use process in Mason District. Beyond his role, Ervin advocates for green spaces, affordable housing, and improved transportation, embodying a passion for a vibrant and inclusive Fairfax County.