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Alana Sanders (Newton County Commissioner Board District 3, Georgia, candidate 2024)

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Alana Sanders
Image of Alana Sanders

Candidate, Newton County Commissioner Board District 3

Elections and appointments
Last election

May 21, 2024

Education

High school

Covington High School

Bachelor's

Grambling State University, 2000

Personal
Birthplace
Covington, La.
Religion
Christian
Profession
Professor
Contact

Alana Sanders (Democratic Party) ran for re-election to the Newton County Commissioner Board District 3 in Georgia. She was on the ballot in the Democratic primary runoff on June 18, 2024.[source]

Sanders completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

[1]

Biography

Alana Sanders provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on April 10, 2024:

  • Birth date: June 2, 1977
  • Birth place: Covington, Louisiana
  • High school: Covington High School
  • Bachelor's: Grambling State University, 2000
  • Graduate: AIU, 2003
  • Graduate: Kaplan U/Purdue U, 2012
  • Gender: Female
  • Religion: Christian
  • Profession: Professor
  • Prior offices held:
    • Commissioner (2021-2024)
  • Incumbent officeholder: Yes
  • Campaign slogan: Empowering Our Community Through TAP: Transparency, Accountability, and Proven Leadership!
  • Campaign website
  • Campaign Facebook
  • Campaign Instagram
  • Campaign YouTube
  • LinkedIn

Elections

General election

The primary runoff occurred on June 18, 2024. The general election will occur on November 5, 2024. Additional general election candidates will be added here following the primary runoff.

General election for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3

Stephanie R. Lindsey ran in the general election for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3 on November 5, 2024.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Democratic primary runoff election

Democratic primary runoff for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3

Incumbent Alana Sanders and Stephanie R. Lindsey ran in the Democratic primary runoff for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3 on June 18, 2024.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3

Incumbent Alana Sanders, Stephanie R. Lindsey, and Willie Arthur Smith ran in the Democratic primary for Newton County Commissioner Board District 3 on May 21, 2024.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Election results

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Sanders in this election.

Campaign themes

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Alana Sanders completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Sanders' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Commissioner Alana Sanders distinguished herself across various prestigious platforms, including notable features on major networks like CNN, BET, and NBC. Beyond her media presence, she has profoundly influenced the educational landscape as a former College Business Chair and current University Professor, where she skillfully teaches the art of Business and Marketing. Her significant contributions include authoring the pioneering college textbook on “Social Media Marketing” for Pearson Education, a testament to her expertise and innovation in the field.

In the realm of consultancy, Commissioner Sanders has been instrumental in advising businesses on engaging with their audiences effectively, ensuring they connect with both current and future customers in impactful ways. Her academic journey traces back to Grambling State University, where she began her illustrious career and was initiated into the Delta Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Today, she remains an active member of the Covington Area Alumnae Chapter, continuing her commitment to community and professional growth.

Commissioner Sanders's leadership achievements are particularly noteworthy in the political arena, where she made history as the first African American female Commissioner on the Newton County Board of Commissioners and the first person of color to represent District 3. Her tenure also included serving as the first African American Female Vice Chair of the board, marking her as a trail
  • Transparency:

    1. Being open and honest in all actions and decisions as a county commissioner.

    2. Involves providing clear and accessible information to the public about government processes, decision-making, and expenditures.

    3. Building trust between the government and the community by allowing citizens to understand how their tax dollars are being used and how policies are being formulated.
  • Accountability: 1. Taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions. It involves being answerable to the public for the outcomes of policies and programs implemented. 2. Mechanisms for oversight and evaluation to ensure that government officials are held to high standards of performance and ethics. 3. Listening to and addressing the concerns and feedback of constituents.
  • Proven Leadership: 1. A track record of effective and responsible leadership in previous roles or experiences. 2. Demonstrating the ability to make tough decisions, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and achieve positive results. As a county commissioner, proven leadership involves having a vision for the community's future and the ability to inspire and mobilize others to work towards common goals. 3. Encompasses qualities such as integrity, empathy, and a commitment to serving the best interests of the community. In summary, TAP emphasizes the importance of transparency in governance, accountability to the public, and demonstrating proven leadership qualities in order
Housing, Youth Programing, Budgeting and Finance.
I look up to individuals who embody resilience, integrity, and compassion—qualities that were instilled in me by my parents, whose influence continues to shape my life despite losing them at 17 and 18 years old. Their guidance and values have left an indelible mark on me, serving as a guiding light through life's challenges. While I draw inspiration from various figures, one example I aspire to follow is that of Nelson Mandela. His unwavering commitment to justice, reconciliation, and forgiveness amidst adversity serves as a beacon of hope and courage. Despite enduring tremendous personal hardship, Mandela remained steadfast in his pursuit of equality and reconciliation, leading by example with humility and grace. His legacy inspires me to strive for positive change, to stand up for what is right, and to approach challenges with resilience and compassion. Like Mandela, I aim to make a meaningful impact in the world, guided by the enduring values instilled in me by my parents.
I recommend my self-authored book "Black Women In a Male-Dominated World: An Elected Official's Journey" to anyone seeking to understand my political philosophy. In this book, I delve into my personal experiences as a black woman navigating the challenges and triumphs of political leadership in a predominantly male-dominated environment. Through insightful anecdotes, reflections, and analyses, I explore themes of resilience, empowerment, and the intersectionality of race and gender in politics. Readers will gain valuable insights into my commitment to equity, justice, and effective governance, as well as my advocacy for diversity, inclusion, and representation in public office. This book serves as a compelling narrative of my journey and a testament to the transformative power of leadership rooted in authenticity, integrity, and social responsibility.
.1. Integrity: demonstrate honesty, trustworthiness, and ethical behavior. Upholding high standards of integrity is essential for earning and maintaining the trust of the public.

2. Accountability: accountable to the people they serve. They must take responsibility for their actions and decisions, and be transparent about their activities and the reasons behind their choices.

3. Transparency: Openness and transparency in government processes, decision-making, and communication are essential for fostering trust and ensuring that the public can understand and participate in the democratic process.

4. Leadership: Effective leadership involves setting a clear vision, making tough decisions, and inspiring others to work towards common goals. Elected officials should demonstrate strong leadership skills, including the ability to listen, collaborate, and motivate.

5. Communication: Clear and effective communication is essential for keeping constituents informed, gathering feedback, and building relationships within the community. Elected officials should be accessible, responsive, and able to convey information in a way that is understandable and engaging.

6. Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with the needs, concerns, and perspectives of constituents is crucial for representing their interests effectively. Elected officials should be compassionate and attentive to the diverse needs of the communities they serve.

7. Commitment to Public Service: Serving in elected office is a privilege and a responsibility. Elected officials should be dedicated to serving the public interest above personal or partisan interests, and be willing to work diligently on behalf of their constituents.

8. Adaptability and Resilience: adapt to new challenges and circumstances while demonstrating resilience in the face of setbacks or criticism, and remain committed to their principles and goals.

9. Collaboration: Building consensus and working collaboratively
Several qualities contribute to my belief that I would be a successful officeholder:

1. Resilience: Having overcome personal challenges, including the loss of my parents at a young age, I possess resilience that enables me to persevere in the face of adversity and remain steadfast in my commitment to public service.

2. Integrity: I adhere to high ethical standards and believe in transparency, honesty, and accountability in all aspects of governance. Upholding integrity is paramount to earning and maintaining the trust of constituents.

3. **Empathy**: My experiences have fostered a deep sense of empathy, allowing me to understand and relate to the diverse needs and concerns of constituents. I am committed to advocating for equitable policies that address the most pressing issues facing our communities.

4. Leadership: I possess strong leadership skills, honed through my involvement in various endeavors such as winning beauty and scholarship pageants and serving as a soloist in the District IX honor chorus. I am adept at inspiring others, fostering collaboration, and achieving common goals.

5. Communication: Effective communication is key to successful governance. I excel in articulating ideas, listening to diverse perspectives, and engaging with constituents to build consensus and enact positive change.

6. Adaptability: In a dynamic political landscape, adaptability is essential. I am capable of navigating complex challenges, embracing innovation, and adjusting strategies to achieve desired outcomes.

7. Commitment to Service: My dedication to serving others is unwavering. I am passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities, and I am committed to being a tireless advocate for their needs and aspirations.
An individual elected to public office carries significant The core responsibilities for someone elected to office include:

1. Representation: The elected official serves as a voice for their constituents, representing their interests, concerns, and priorities in the decision-making process.

2. Policy-making: Developing and implementing policies that address the needs of the community, promote its well-being, and advance its long-term interests.

3. Legislation: Introducing, supporting, or opposing legislation at the local, regional, or national level, depending on the scope of the office, to enact laws that benefit the public.

4. Oversight: Exercising oversight over government agencies, programs, and expenditures to ensure accountability, efficiency, and effectiveness in the use of public resources.

5. **Constituent services**: Providing assistance, guidance, and support to constituents on matters such as accessing government services, resolving issues, and navigating bureaucratic processes.

6. Budgetary oversight: Approving budgets, allocating funds, and monitoring spending to ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment with community priorities.

7. Community engagement: Engaging with constituents through town hall meetings, public forums, and other outreach efforts to solicit feedback, address concerns, and foster a sense of participation and ownership in the democratic process.

8. Collaboration: Working collaboratively with other elected officials, government agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders to address complex challenges and achieve common goals.

9. Ethical conduct: Adhering to high standards of ethics, integrity, and transparency in all aspects of governance, and avoiding conflicts of interest or actions that undermine public trust.

10. Promotion of democracy: Upholding and defending the principles of democracy, including free and fair elections, the rule of law, civil liberties, and respect for diversity and inclusion.
The legacy I aspire to leave is one of positive impact, compassion, and empowerment. I strive to be remembered as a leader who tirelessly advocated for justice, equality, and opportunity for all. Through my actions and initiatives, I aim to leave behind a community that is more inclusive, resilient, and thriving. I want to empower individuals to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances, and to create pathways for future generations to succeed. My legacy will be defined by the lives I've touched, the barriers I've helped break down, and the lasting change I've contributed to building a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Given that I was born in 1977, the first historical event that left an impression on my memory was the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. At the time, I would have been around 12 years old. This momentous event marked the end of the Cold War division between East and West Germany, symbolizing the collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe and the reunification of the country. The images of people joyously tearing down the wall and the subsequent reunification process likely had a significant impact on global consciousness and may have been one of the earliest historical events you remember experiencing.
My professional journey commenced at McDonald's, where I undertook the responsibilities of burger flipping and customer service during the early morning shifts. Although my tenure lasted merely three months, this experience left an indelible mark. It underscored the importance of education and personal growth, prompting a realization that I aspired for more than the confines of that role. Rising at 4 AM, especially during the summer months, reinforced the value of commitment and punctuality, instilling in me a profound sense of responsibility. Despite the challenges, this experience fueled my determination to pursue further education and opportunities for advancement in order to fulfill my aspirations.
One significant struggle in my life has been overcoming the loss of my parents at a young age. Losing them during my teenage years presented numerous emotional, practical, and financial challenges. Coping with grief while navigating the transition to adulthood was immensely difficult and required a great deal of resilience and support from others. Additionally, I faced the practical realities of managing life without parental guidance, including financial responsibilities and decision-making. However, despite the profound impact of this loss, I have persevered, drawing strength from the lessons instilled in me by my parents and finding resilience in the face of adversity. This struggle has shaped my character, fostering empathy, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the importance of community and support networks. It has also motivated me to strive for personal growth and to channel my experiences into making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Backed by a host of District 3 Residents & Growing Support: Endorsed by Working Families Party, Hon. William Boddie, Fair Fight Fellow, with More Organizations Joining the Movement!
Financial transparency and government accountability are paramount in ensuring the trust, integrity, and effectiveness of public institutions. Transparency in financial matters means making government budgets, expenditures, and financial transactions easily accessible and understandable to the public. It allows citizens to scrutinize how their tax dollars are being allocated and spent, fostering accountability and preventing misuse or corruption.

Government accountability goes hand in hand with financial transparency. It means holding public officials responsible for their actions, decisions, and stewardship of public funds. Elected representatives and government agencies must be answerable to the public for the outcomes of their policies and programs. This accountability can be achieved through mechanisms such as audits, oversight committees, and regular reporting requirements.

As an elected official, I believe in upholding the highest standards of financial transparency and government accountability. I am committed to ensuring that the public has access to comprehensive and accurate information about government finances, and that there are robust systems in place to monitor and evaluate the use of taxpayer money. I believe that transparency and accountability are essential for building trust between government and citizens, promoting good governance, and ultimately improving the well-being of our communities.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. [Email from Georgia Secretary of State Election office, "Candidate list," March 12, 2024]