Rudy Locklear
Title: Council Member
Municipality: Town of Pembroke
Position Interested In: At Large - Elected Official; District Representative
Tell us why you would like to serve in a leadership position at the League. In particular, specify goals you would like to accomplish as an officer or board member and indicate how, if attained, they will help to achieve Vision 2030 – the League’s future vision of how cities and towns will operate in 2030.
As a councilman with the town of Pembroke, I am deeply committed to serving my community and fostering positive change on both local and broader scales. It is with this commitment and enthusiasm that I express my interest in serving in a leadership position at the League. The League provides a unique platform for collaboration, innovation, and advocacy, and I am eager to contribute to its mission of advancing municipal governance and promoting sustainable development.
One of my primary goals as an officer or board member of the League would be to prioritize initiatives aimed at enhancing community resilience and sustainability. In today's rapidly changing world, communities face numerous challenges, including climate change, economic instability, and social inequality. By implementing policies and programs that promote environmental stewardship, economic development, and social equity, we can build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to thrive in the face of adversity.
Furthermore, I believe that fostering collaboration and cooperation among municipalities is essential for achieving long-term success and sustainability. As an officer or board member of the League, I would work to facilitate partnerships and networks that enable municipalities to share resources, best practices, and innovative solutions to common challenges. By leveraging the collective expertise and experience of municipalities across the state, we can develop more effective strategies for addressing complex issues and achieving shared goals.
In addition to promoting community resilience and collaboration, I am also committed to advancing equity and inclusion within municipal governance. In order to truly achieve Vision 2030 – a vision of vibrant, thriving communities that prioritize sustainability, equity, and quality of life – we must ensure that all members of our communities have a voice in the decision-making process and access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. As an officer or board member of the League, I would advocate for policies and programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within municipal government and address systemic barriers to participation and opportunity.
In conclusion, I am eager to serve in a leadership position at the League and contribute to its mission of advancing municipal governance and promoting sustainable development. By prioritizing community resilience, fostering collaboration among municipalities, and advancing equity and inclusion within municipal governance, we can work together to achieve Vision 2030 and build a brighter future for all members of our communities. Thank you for considering my candidacy.
Tell us about your experience as a municipal official. You may want to include information on your service on the municipal governing body, other related boards and special areas of interest.
As a councilman with the Town of Pembroke and an elected representative of the Lumbee Tribal Council, my journey in public service has been both enriching and rewarding. Serving as a municipal official has afforded me the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to the well-being and prosperity of our community, while also advocating for the interests and concerns of the Lumbee Tribe.
My tenure on the municipal governing body of Pembroke has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to fostering inclusive governance and promoting policies that prioritize the needs of all residents. As a councilman, I have been actively involved in various initiatives aimed at enhancing public infrastructure, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the overall quality of life within our town.
In addition to my role on the Pembroke Town Council, I have also had the privilege of representing the Lumbee Tribe on numerous related boards and committees. These include positions on committees focused on economic development, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. Through my involvement in these diverse spheres of influence, I have strived to advance initiatives that empower our community, promote social equity, and preserve our rich cultural heritage.
One area of particular interest to me has been the promotion of economic development and entrepreneurship within our region. Recognizing the importance of fostering a robust local economy, I have worked diligently to attract investment, support small businesses, and create job opportunities for residents of Pembroke and the surrounding areas. By collaborating with local stakeholders, government agencies, and private sector partners, we have been able to implement initiatives that spur economic growth and promote sustainable development.
Furthermore, as a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe, I am deeply committed to preserving and celebrating our unique cultural identity. Through my service on various cultural preservation boards and committees, I have advocated for initiatives that promote awareness of our heritage, support cultural education programs, and ensure the preservation of traditional customs and practices for future generations.
In conclusion, my experience as a municipal official and representative of the Lumbee Tribe has been characterized by a steadfast dedication to serving the best interests of our community. As we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, I remain committed to working collaboratively with fellow stakeholders to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents of Pembroke and the Lumbee Tribe. Together, we can overcome obstacles, embrace diversity, and build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.
Tell us about your educational background, professional experience, and/or community or civic activities.
My academic journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for public service. I currently am ABD in my Ph.D. in Public Policy & Administration from Walden University, with a focus on Criminal Justice. Prior to this, I completed a Master of Public Administration degree at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP), specializing in Criminal Justice Administration. Additionally, I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from UNCP, along with an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice Technology from Robeson Community College.
I have pursued numerous certifications pertinent to the field, including those from the NC Justice Academy and the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission. Noteworthy distinctions include the J. Stanley Carmichael Award for Excellence in NC Juvenile Justice and induction into prestigious honor societies such as Pi Alpha Alpha and the Golden Key Honor Society.
My professional journey has been multifaceted, encompassing roles in academia, law enforcement, and community leadership. Notably, I served as the Director of the Basic Law Enforcement Training Academy at Robeson Community College, where I oversaw training programs, managed budgets, and ensured compliance with accreditation standards. I have also held positions as an instructor and adjunct professor in Criminal Justice Technology at both Robeson Community College and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
In addition to my academic roles, I have served in various capacities within law enforcement agencies, including the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office and the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office, where I held positions of leadership and responsibility. Furthermore, I have actively engaged in community outreach and advocacy, addressing issues such as domestic violence, human trafficking, and public safety.
My commitment to community service is evidenced by my involvement in a range of organizations and initiatives. I have served as a Lumbee Tribal Council Representative, a councilman for the Town of Pembroke, and a participant in programs promoting American Indian leadership development. Additionally, I have been engaged in various committees and boards focusing on education, public safety, and civic affairs, including the North Carolina Domestic Violence Commission and the North Carolina State Judicial Council.
In conclusion, my academic background, professional experience, and community engagement reflect a dedication to advancing knowledge, fostering public safety, and promoting social welfare. I remain committed to leveraging my skills and expertise for the betterment of communities and the advancement of justice and equity.
Have You Participated in Any NCLM Events or Committees?
Please provide any other information you would like the Nominations Committee to consider.
