The Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy appointed Dr. LaKeisha Cook as its new executive director, the organization announced  Tuesday.

Cook, who served as co-executive director for the past year, succeeds Kim Bobo, who retired last week after nearly a decade leading the nonprofit.

Cook is the first African American to lead the 33-year-old organization, which includes 25,000 members and 750 houses of worship across the state.

Cook has led several successful legislative campaigns, including helping pass Virginia’s 2021 law abolishing the death penalty, making the state the first in the South to end capital punishment. This year, she focused on criminal justice reform, supporting legislation that bans the indiscriminate shackling of youth in court.

Before joining the organization, Cook held leadership roles at St. Paul’s Baptist Church in Richmond. She has two decades of experience in nonprofits, education and government.

At the organization’s 2025 Day for All People lobby event, Cook emphasized the power of collective action.

“It’s one thing to raise your voice for justice. It’s one thing for a congregation to raise its voice for justice,” she said. “But if we can get multiple congregations and more people to say the same thing at the same time, we’re able to impact history.”

Dr. Anthony Fludd, chairman of the board, praised Cook’s leadership and thanked Bobo for her years of service.

“Our organization will continue to thrive and grow as Rev. Cook carries this critical work forward,” he said.