As a 2010 graduate and professor at N.C. A&T, Jamal Fox says that he understands the needs of the A&T student body as well as the Greensboro community.

That is why this 25-year-old has decided to run for City Council Representative of Greensboro District 2.

 “Since I’ve been here, I’ve read and heard about so many issues that are going on in Greensboro, and have even had the chance to speak with people about those issues,” said Fox. “For young professionals, I felt that it was time for us to assume responsibility over our own future.”

James Mayes, the Interim chair of political science and criminal justice at A&T, taught Fox during his undergraduate years. “I have always found Professor Fox to be an engaging student. Also, someone who’s been aware of current events and has always had a plan.”

Mayes said during Fox’s undergraduate career, he never thought he would have run for city council. “I knew he was going to run for something, but I never thought he would run for city council and so soon. “

Professor Fox said that he wanted to do something for his generation so that others can see him as a role model.  He exhibits this through his volunteer work with young men in the Guilford County School system.

One major goal that Fox hopes to accomplish through his campaign is creating unity and spreading awareness about major issues within the Greensboro community.

Fox also believes various attractions should be created for the city so that college students will want to form a permanent residence here.

The A&T professor thinks that excess land should be used to create a facility where students will have the opportunity to interact and train the community in the students’ areas of specialty.

Campus and neighborhood safety is another initiative of Fox’s campaign. “Since I have been here I have seen too many robberies, deaths and too many issues as it relates to the police department. I want to strengthen the relationship between our police, students and our community.”

Although Fox cannot discuss his campaign during his classes, he tries to do what he can to reach students outside of the classroom.

“When you’re sitting in a classroom, you never know what really impacts your community,” he said. “In the past few months that I’ve been around in the community, I’ve had people talk to me about many issues and concerns that they have. I am going to do what I can to be a voice for the Greensboro community.”

Fox encourages students to use their right to vote so they can have a hand in developing a government that will affect them significantly, especially when they graduate from college.

The student body of A&T holds an important percentage of the population of Greensboro’s District 2. With the vote of the entire student body, it is possible to elect Fox as city council representative.

Jim Kee, another A&T graduate, currently holds the position. Kee has held the position since 2009. Both candidates have included public safety and economic development as focal points of their campaigns.  

Fox also hopes to be able to extend the hours of recreational centers, build sidewalks in neighborhoods as well as create activities that allow youth to become engaged and channel their energy into positive exercise.

Professor Fox received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from N.C. A&T State University and earned his masters from Capella University. He is currently working on his doctorate.

Guilford County will hold primary elections on Oct. 8.  

• LACI OLLISON, Register Reporter