Demaxia Wray is a Program Manager for the Center of Justice Planning. In her role, she provides research on evidence-based practices and program management support for the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG). Training and technical assistance is focused on State Administering Agencies (SAAs), as well as other state and local stakeholders, including Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils (CJCC) and community-based advisory boards. Demaxia provides support and guidance on criminal justice strategic planning and assists in the development of comprehensive, strategic plans leading to the implementation of evidence-based programs and practices. Demaxia is currently a member of the NCJA Equity Committee, which holistically addresses equity in criminal justice funding and budgeting.

Prior to joining NCJA, Demaxia served as a Gun Violence Prevention Team Coordinator in the Capital Region of New York, specializing in research, grant writing, and community outreach with preventative education. With knowledge and experience with both state and federal funding streams, she is passionate about training and educating a portfolio of programs and state initiatives. During her time, Demaxia worked with survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, gun violence, and at-risk populations.

With 7 years of experience in non-profit, human services, and criminal justice sectors, Demaxia brings a well-rounded background to the table. She earned her bachelor's degree in Law and Society with a concentration in Criminal Justice from Russell Sage University. Currently, she is enrolled in a unique graduate program at her alma mater that focuses on innovation, development, and criminal justice reform.