Bernadette B. Paolo

Bernadette Paolo succeeded the former President and Founder of The Africa Society, Leonard H. Robinson, Jr., in 2006, after his untimely death. Prior to assuming her new position, Paolo served as Vice President of The Africa Society and Vice President of The National Summit on Africa. 

Paolo has more than 25 years of experience in international affairs that includes an extensive career of 12 years in the U.S. Congress. For more than a decade, 

While on Capitol Hill, Paolo represented Congress in 43 countries in the roles of negotiator, investigator, election observer and arbitrator. In addition to managing Subcommittee staffs, Paolo was responsible for formulating strategies and policy determinations for Members of Congress, as well as writing key pieces of legislation, speeches and articles pertaining to foreign policy issues.

Her other work experience includes teaching English at the secondary and university levels, as well as writing professionally. A native of West Virginia, Paolo received her B.A. from West Liberty College, her M.A. from West Virginia University, and her J.D. from Antioch School of Law. She is a member of the District of Columbia Bar and the West Virginia Bar.