Zaida Ricker, MPS

Director of Strategic Partnerships and Policy
Email: zricker@nashia.org

Zaida Ricker, MPS, supports NASHIA as the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Policy. In this role, she leads our federal advocacy and has helped secure increases in funding for the Traumatic Brain Injury State Partnerships Program at the Administration for Community Living and the National Concussion Surveillance System at the Centers for Disease Control. She also helps support policy efforts related to the overlap between intimate partner violence and justice-involved populations.

Zaida also worked for former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge at the Ridge Policy Group from 2018 - 2023. She managed clients related to disability policy, helping to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities in all aspects of life. Zaida helps to communicate with Capitol Hill and the Administration, supports grassroots communication, and provides legislative strategies to ensure successful government relations plans.

She joined Ridge Policy Group after working for Congressman Brad Schneider of Illinois. In that position, she managed the Congressman’s portfolio as the Ranking Member of the House Small Business Subcommittee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade, as well as a wide range of other issues, including disability issues. Before joining Rep. Schneider’s office, Zaida worked for Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, where she handled a diverse domestic policy portfolio. During her time in both the Senate and the House, Zaida developed an understanding of Congressional procedure, shaped and passed policy, and built relationships with key staffers of both parties.

Zaida graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in political science and received her master’s degree in legislative affairs from George Washington University.  In her free time, Zaida enjoys spending time with her family, husband Cameron, daughter Zona, and dog Champion.