Joseline Pena-Melnyk is the Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, representing District 21 (Anne Arundel/Prince George's Counties). Elected Speaker in December 2025, she made history as the first Afro-Latina, first immigrant, and first person of color to serve as Speaker. Born in the Dominican Republic, she immigrated to New York at age 7-8 and was the first in her family to attend college and law school.
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Born in the Dominican Republic on June 27, 1966. Immigrated to New York at age 7-8. First in her family to attend college and law school.
Political Career
Before Politics
Former Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia; Immigration and civil rights attorney
Education
B.A. from Buffalo State College (1987); J.D. from SUNY Buffalo School of Law (1991)
Key Issues & Priorities
Healthcare access
Immigration reform
Civil rights
Education