Jasper Watkins III (Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3, Georgia, candidate 2024)
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Jasper Watkins III (Democratic Party) ran for re-election to the Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3 in Georgia. He was on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Watkins completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
[1]Biography
Jasper Watkins III provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on May 29, 2024:
- Birth place: Columbia/Fort Jackson, South Carolina
- High school: Jean Ribault Sr. High
- Bachelor's: Florida A&M University, 1981
- Graduate: Central Michigan University, 2001
- Military service: United States Army, 1982-2007
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Pharmacist
- Incumbent officeholder: Yes
- Campaign slogan: Believe In Gwinnett
- Campaign website
Elections
General election
General election for Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3
Incumbent Jasper Watkins III and Bobby Howard ran in the general election for Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | ||
Jasper Watkins III (D)  | ||
| Bobby Howard (R) | ||
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| = 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 Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3
Incumbent Jasper Watkins III and Marqus A. Cole ran in the Democratic primary for Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | ||
| Jasper Watkins III | ||
| Marqus A. Cole | ||
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| = 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. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3
Bobby Howard ran in the Republican primary for Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | ||
| Bobby Howard | ||
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| = 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 Watkins in this election.
Campaign themes
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Jasper Watkins III completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Watkins' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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He has an undergrad degree from Florida A&M University and a masters at Central Michigan University, Jasper was the first African American in the armed forces to achieve board certification in Nuclear Pharmacy. His prestigious military recognitions include the Legion of Merit and the Order of Military Medical Merit.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, he focused on healthcare, teamwork, and morale, pushing for salary adjustments due to inflation, supporting minority women-owned businesses, and enhancing local transportation. Active in local governance, he serves on various health and mental health committees and is deeply involved in his community, including as a member of Berean Christian Church Gwinnett. Jasper lives in Grayson, Georgia, with his family, celebrating a legacy of leadership and dedication.- I am deeply committed to enhancing mental health services within our community. My goal is to develop comprehensive support systems that address mental health challenges effectively and compassionately. By increasing funding, expanding access to therapy and counseling, and integrating mental health education into public spaces, we can build a stronger, more resilient community. This commitment also involves collaborating with local organizations and specialists to tailor services to the specific needs of our residents, ensuring everyone receives the support they need to thrive.
- I am dedicated to developing infrastructure that supports and fosters sustainable communities. This involves investing in renewable energy sources, improving public transportation systems, and constructing energy-efficient buildings. By focusing on these areas, I aim to reduce our environmental footprint while enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Furthermore, I plan to incorporate green spaces and pedestrian-friendly designs that encourage healthier lifestyles. These initiatives are essential for creating a vibrant, sustainable environment where communities can thrive for generations to come.
- I am committed to stimulating economic growth by implementing strategic initiatives that attract investment and encourage entrepreneurship. This includes offering incentives for small businesses, fostering innovation through technology hubs, and enhancing workforce development programs to equip our citizens with future-ready skills. By strengthening partnerships with local universities and industry leaders, we can create a more dynamic business environment. Additionally, improving infrastructure and streamlining regulatory processes will make our region more attractive to new and expanding businesses, ultimately boosting our local economy and providing more job opportunities for our residents.
Additionally, my parents have been exceptional role models. Their unwavering dedication, hard work, and resilience have shaped my character and work ethic. They taught me the importance of perseverance, humility, and kindness, demonstrating through their lives the value of selfless service and commitment to community.
I hold a pharmacy degree from Florida A&M University and a Master of Health Services Administration from Central Michigan University. I was the first African American in the armed forces and Florida to achieve board certification with the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacist Nuclear Pharmacy Residency Program, reflecting my commitment to excellence.
Professionally, I am a principal/consultant for Watty Consulting, LLC, and a senior account executive for the Minnesota Multistate Contracting Alliance for Pharmacy Infuse. These roles have enhanced my analytical and consultative skills, reinforcing a disciplined, ethical, and mission-oriented mindset.
Growing up as the eldest son of an Army veteran, I learned dedication, resilience, and service. With over 40 years of leadership experience, including roles at Walter Reed Army Medical Center during 9/11 and as Pharmacy Director at Martin Army Hospital, Ft. Benning, Georgia, I bring extensive knowledge and expertise to public office.
My community involvement includes graduating from the Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy and Leadership Gwinnett, serving on the National Association of Counties Health Steering Committee, and leading the Northforke Plantation Homeowners Association. These roles demonstrate my commitment to local engagement and collaboration.
Firstly, I aim to be remembered for my commitment to effective governance and crisis management. Drawing from my 25-year military career, where I played key roles in post-9/11 Pentagon support and pharmaceutical efforts for Hurricanes Katrina and Andrew, I want to leave a legacy of resilience and preparedness in the face of emergencies.
Secondly, I hope to be recognized for my efforts to break barriers and set new standards of excellence. As the first African American in the armed forces and Florida to achieve board certification with the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacist Nuclear Pharmacy Residency Program, I strive to inspire future generations to pursue their highest potential, regardless of the challenges they may face.
Additionally, I want my legacy to reflect my dedication to health and well-being. Through my roles in the military and public health sectors, and as a senior account executive for the Minnesota Multistate Contracting Alliance for Pharmacy Infuse, I have worked tirelessly to enhance healthcare access and quality. My service on various health committees and boards demonstrates my ongoing commitment to these vital issues.
Community involvement is another cornerstone of the legacy I wish to leave. My participation in the Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy, Leadership Gwinnett, and leadership roles in local organizations highlight my deep connection to our community. I want to be remembered as someone who always sought to bring people together, foster collaboration, and work towards common goals.
Captain Sisko embodies the qualities of a great leader: wisdom, integrity, and a deep sense of duty and exploration. His ability to navigate complex moral and ethical dilemmas, while always striving for peace and understanding, resonates with my own values and commitment to service. Plus, being assigned to the Bajoran sector to command Deep Space Nine and help Bajor's recovery from the recently concluded Cardassian occupation, shepherding them toward possible membership in the Federation is incredibly inspiring!
In the military, I was often one of the few African Americans in my field, and achieving recognition and advancement required not only meeting but exceeding expectations. This struggle was compounded by the need to constantly prove my capabilities in an environment where I was often viewed through the lens of my race before my skills and achievements. However, these experiences fueled my determination to break barriers and set new standards.
As the first African American in the armed forces and Florida to achieve board certification with the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacist Nuclear Pharmacy Residency Program, I encountered skepticism and doubt from peers and superiors. Overcoming these obstacles required not only technical expertise but also the ability to navigate a complex professional landscape with grace and determination.
Balancing my demanding career with personal responsibilities has also been a challenge. Growing up as the eldest son of an Army veteran and later becoming a father and grandfather, I have always strived to be a role model for my family while managing the pressures of my professional life. Ensuring that I remained present and supportive for my loved ones while pursuing ambitious career goals required careful time management, prioritization, and a strong support system.
Another important but often overlooked responsibility is the management of public health initiatives. Commissioners are instrumental in setting policies that safeguard public health, including disease prevention, emergency preparedness, and health education. These decisions can have far-reaching effects on community well-being and resilience.
Additionally, commissioners have a role in emergency management. They are responsible for overseeing response strategies and resources during crises such as natural disasters or public health emergencies. This involves coordination with various governmental and non-governmental entities to ensure effective and timely responses that protect residents and property.
Moreover, commissioners often serve on various boards and commissions that influence public transportation, public safety, and social services. These positions allow them to impact funding decisions and strategic planning in areas critical to everyday life.
Moreover, having a background in government or politics can enhance a commissioner's ability to forge meaningful connections within the political sphere, facilitating collaborations and partnerships that can drive forward community projects and initiatives. This network can prove especially beneficial when seeking funding opportunities, advocating for legislative changes, or mobilizing support for local issues.
Experience also contributes to a deeper institutional knowledge, which includes understanding the historical context behind existing policies and the procedural nuances that might impact their implementation or modification. This insight can lead to more informed decision-making, avoiding past mistakes and building on previous successes.
However, it is also important to recognize the value of fresh perspectives and diverse professional backgrounds. Newcomers can bring innovative ideas and approaches that challenge the status quo and introduce more dynamic and adaptable strategies into local governance.
Analytical and critical thinking are also fundamental. Commissioners face complex issues, such as budget allocations and policy impacts, necessitating informed decision-making based on data analysis and future implications.
Financial acumen is vital, given the oversight of substantial budgets. Commissioners must understand financial statements, funding mechanisms, and economic indicators to manage public resources responsibly.
Effective communication is indispensable. Commissioners need to articulate policies clearly, explain decisions, and engage transparently with constituents. Skills in public speaking and writing are important for advocating community needs and negotiating in legislative contexts.
Additionally, a thorough understanding of local government laws and regulations is necessary to ensure all actions are legally sound and to advocate effectively for beneficial changes.
Why don't scientists trust atoms?
Government accountability is equally important because it holds public officials responsible for their actions and decisions. It ensures that they act in the best interests of their constituents and adhere to the law and ethical standards. Accountability mechanisms, such as audits, oversight committees, and public disclosures, are essential tools for ensuring that government officials perform their duties effectively and transparently.
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
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Gwinnett County Commissioner Board District 3 |
Footnotes
- ↑ [Email from Georgia Secretary of State Election office, "Candidate list," March 12, 2024]
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