On September 6, 2025, Donald R. Hart Sr. became the new President of the Florida State Conference of the NAACP, succeeding Dr. Adora Obi Nweze, who had held the position for 25 years.
Hart will lead the Florida State Conference of the NAACP, guiding its operations, appointing committee members, and advancing the organization’s mission to promote political, educational, social, and economic equality for all, while combating racial discrimination and hatred. He will oversee the conference’s programs and advocate for civil rights across the state.
Background on Donald R. Hart Sr.
Donald R. Hart Sr. has devoted his life to advancing justice, protecting civil rights and uplifting communities. A veteran leader within the Florida State Conference of the NAACP, he has held numerous positions over the years, including co-area director, area director and multiple vice president roles—before stepping into his current position as president.
Known for his reliability, integrity, and steadfast commitment to the mission, Mr. Hart is also a proud Silver Life Member of the NAACP. He has led several key state committees, including Civic Engagement, Freedom Fund, Finance, Environmental & Climate Justice, and Criminal Justice.
Mr. Hart’s professional career is equally distinguished. After earning his HVAC Technician certification from Indian River State College, he worked in retail management before embarking on a remarkable 40-year career in law enforcement.
His service was marked by fairness, dedication and public trust, and he extended his passion for public safety into education as an adjunct professor at the Treasure Coast Public Safety Training Complex. Beyond law enforcement, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to community health and early childhood education, serving seven years as vice president of Head Start of Indian River County and four years as vice president and board member of the Florida Community Health Center.
A man deeply rooted in faith and family, Mr. Hart is the proud father of four adult children, grandfather of two, and a devoted member of Friendship Baptist Church in Vero Beach (Gifford), Florida.
For more information about the NAACP, visit the Florida State Conference website at flnaacp.org. Membership in local branches is open to all, providing opportunities to support Hart’s initiatives directly.
