Harrisburg, PA —The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) today announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. Alyn Waller as its newest commissioner.
“Dr. Waller’s lifelong commitment to service and community engagement makes him an exceptional addition to the PHRC,” said PHRC Interim Chair Curtis Jones, Jr. “His leadership and experience will strengthen our work to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all Pennsylvanians.”
Dr. Waller serves as the Senior Pastor at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Waller is active in the Philadelphia School District and has hosted numerous town halls and community events to support youth education. He also created the Young Abrahams, a ministry that pairs young boys, ages 7 to 12, with adult mentors who help them improve academics and develop the social skills necessary to become productive men in society. In addition to his ministry work, Dr. Waller is the author of several books. He also makes regular appearances on Philadelphia radio stations and offers social commentary on Facebook and Twitter. He is involved with numerous service organizations and has been awarded countless honors for his leadership throughout the Philadelphia area.
“Dr. Waller’s decades of service, community leadership, and commitment to justice reflect the values at the heart of the PHRC,” said PHRC Interim Executive Director Amber J.E. Harris. “His voice and experience will strengthen the Commission’s work as we continue advancing fairness and equal opportunity for all Pennsylvanians.”
Dr. Waller joins a diverse Commission representing a wide range of professional backgrounds and community leadership experience. His appointment brings the current number of commissioners to 10. In July 2026, the state Senate appointed and reappointed the following nine commissioners:
- Curtis Jones, Jr., Interim Commission Chair
- Carolyn Bohmueller
- Christopher Brooks
- Brooke Burchette Williams
- Seth Grove
- Michael Hardiman
- Timothy Jackson
- Laura Manion
- Andrea Martin
“We welcome Dr. Waller to the Commission,” said Commissioner Christopher Brooks. “I look forward to collaborating with him to support the Commission’s mission and serve the citizens of the Commonwealth.”
The PHRC is comprised of eleven commissioners, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate. These commissioners act as public liaisons, establish policies, and resolve some cases that are not settled voluntarily. The commission is independent and nonpartisan, with no more than six commissioners from one political party. The chairperson is appointed by the Governor, and the vice-chairperson, secretary, and assistant secretary are elected by commissioners each year. The commission needs either six members or a majority of appointed and qualified members to conduct business, and any action can be approved by the majority of those present.
A permanent commission chair has not yet been announced. Dr. Waller will be sworn into office immediately prior to the commission's October 26 meeting in Harrisburg, officially commencing his service on the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.
The PHRC also announces the resignation of Commission Secretary Dr. Radheshyam M. Agrawal, who joined the Commission in 2014. A nomination to fill this vacancy has been submitted for the state Senate consideration.
About the PHRC:
The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission enforces state laws that prohibit discrimination and promote equal opportunity for all people. The PHRC investigates complaints of discrimination in employment, housing, education, and public accommodations. Anyone who has experienced discrimination is urged to file a complaint by calling 717-787-4410. Information and resources are also available on the PHRC website. Follow the PHRC on X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
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