NJ Assemblyman, Community Activist Jamel Holley joins us to share his truth. Jamel shares that there is no obstacle that you can't overcome if your are persistent and consistent. He shares his journey of being born to a fifteen year old mom and how the support of the village made him the man he is today.
He goes on to share the importance of boots on the ground. Why it is vital to not only go into the community you wish to serve but to get input and feedback from the very people who are experiencing the obstacles within their very own communities. He also makes it know how important it is to have people who look like the people in the community to have a seat at the table.
Jamel is more than white noise in the background he is a trailblazer and game changer in the community. His demonstrated leadership has allowed him to bridge many gaps and foster relationships on everything from preserving Roselle taxpayers’ dollars, to standing up for the creation of good government spending practices, to supporting youth recreation, and preserving open space.
In 2002, Jamel earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from New Jersey City University, and holds a Master ofPublic Administration Degree from Kean University.
In 2001, Holley was appointed by New Jersey’s Deputy Majority Leader to serve as Chief of Staff. That appointment earned him recognition as the youngest Chief of Staff in the State of New Jersey for any of the State’s 120 Legislators.
On November 2, 2004, Holley won the General Election for Councilman At Large in the Borough of Roselle. He became the youngest Councilman in Union County at age 25.
Holley was once again successful in his 2007 and 2010 election bid for Councilman At Large. In November 2011, Holley was elected Mayor and became the youngest Mayor ever elected in the Borough’s 117th year history.
In January 2015, Holley was appointed to fill a seat in the New Jersey General Assembly representing the 20th Legislative District. This appointment made Holley the first African American to represent the district in the New Jersey Legislature. Holley later won the election bid for the full term in November 2017 and again in November 2019.
Currently, Holley is the Director of Public Works for the Township of Irvington.
Holley’s future plans include continuing his public service in order to serve others using his experience and knowledge of local, state and federal government.
To stay in contact and Support Jamel you can follow him on social media FB Jamel C. Holley, Instagram/Twitter @jamelholley or jamelholley.com
To stay in touch will Tray Kearney www.traykearney.com or follow on all social media @traykearney
