The Ledger

By Becky Holland

A familiar face in the community, Chad Brown says his decision to run for the District 4 seat on the Bleckley County Board of Education comes from a desire to give back to the school system that helped shape his life.

Brown, 38, is a pharmacist, husband, father and longtime resident of Bleckley County. He and his wife, Ginger, a nurse with Three Rivers Home Healthcare, are raising two children who currently attend Bleckley County schools — one in first grade and the other in third.

A 2006 graduate of Bleckley County High School, Brown says the opportunities he received as a student here helped set the foundation for his future.

“I have a passion for helping kids and giving them the opportunities that I had,” Brown said. “The Bleckley County School System helped set me up for success, and I want to give back to the kids and the school system.”

Brown said if elected, he plans to approach the role with an open mind.

“I don’t know yet what needs to change, if anything,” he said. “But if elected, I will listen to all the information presented so I can make unbiased decisions that are in the best interest of the children and teens in Bleckley County.”

Brown also emphasized the importance of faith and values in leadership.

“We need to make Christian-based, prayerful decisions,” he said.

Family and mentors have played a significant role in shaping Brown’s life and outlook. His parents, Gary and Sandy Brown, are both graduates of Bleckley County High School. He also credits longtime educator Shelly Cranford, his uncle, and Wanda Barrs as influential figures who helped guide him.

But the person who had the greatest impact on him was his grandfather, Dewey Brown.

“He was my best friend and my hero,” Brown said. “He was a leader, and there’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about him.”

Brown believes Bleckley County already has a strong school system and wants to help ensure that continues.

“We have a good school system, and I want to make sure it stays that way,” he said.

Reflecting on his own life, Brown said the advice he would give his younger self is simple.

“If you want something, outwork everyone else,” he said. “Be productive. Don’t spend so much time worrying about what others think. Be comfortable in your own skin and make every day count.”

Editor’s Note: The general election will be held May 19, with early voting beginning April 27.

In next week’s Meet The Candidate spotlight, we will have Shanna Evans, District 5, Bleckley County Board of Education

Candidates seeking office in Cochran, Bleckley County or in state races that represent the area are invited to share information about themselves with The Ledger. Submissions may be emailed to editor@thecbledger.com.