CANDIDATE HIGHLIGHTS
(FBX Political Corner)
2024 Florida Black Excellence - Political Corner
At the Florida Black Excellence Fest, our commitment remains steadfast to the foundational framework that has defined our mission over the years. As we gear up for another exhilarating weekend, we aim to propel economic development and amplify the visibility of minority-owned businesses. Major corporations alongside governmental entities will be on hand to discuss procurement standards and unveil opportunities for business expansion. Our fest is designed to underscore six pivotal pillars of economic growth and sustainability: Entrepreneurship, Jobs, Wealth Creation, Health, Education, and History/Culture. Each pillar is vital for the thriving economic landscape of our community.
Political engagement is essential for the progress of both businesses and our broader community. The Florida Black Excellence Fest leverages its influential platform to showcase Political Candidates in an impartial, non-partisan setting. Our Political Corner is a dynamic activation within the fest, providing candidates with a platform to present their visions, share candidacy details, and engage directly with the community.
MELODY BOLDUC
Melody Bolduc
Candidate for Duval County School Board, District 2
Melody was raised in the Mandarin area of Jacksonville. Her journey reflects a lifelong dedication to education and community service. With supportive parents who prioritized learning, Melody excelled through her educational path. Her passion for teaching led her to the University of North Florida, where she graduated summa cum laude in 2000 from the College of Education. Melody began her teaching career at Wolfson High School and continued to shape young minds within the public school system until 2014.
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Melody’s Key Messaging
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Experience Matters: Melody is the only candidate with direct educational experience, ensuring informed decisions for our schools.
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Student Safety: Committed to safeguarding students.
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School Choice: Advocates for diverse school options for parents.
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School Board Priorities:
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Get Back to Basics: Focus on essential educational fundamentals.
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Accountability: Ensure proper reporting for student safety.
Learn more about her journey and current projects at the link below.
Attorney Marcus Isom
Duval County Judge
Attorney Marcus Isom is a candidate for Duval County Court Judge, Group 9, and brings a wealth of experience and community dedication to his campaign. Since 2018, Marcus has worked as a prosecutor specializing in violent crimes and community outreach, with prior experience in both the Public Defender’s Office and civil law firms. Marcus’ public service is extensive:
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Public Service & Legal
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Assistant State Attorney, Florida’s Fourth Judicial Circuit
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President, D.W. Perkins Bar Association
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State Attorney’s Office Community Crimes Strategies Unit
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Public Defender’s Office Intern and Volunteer
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Florida Bar Leadership Academy
His commitment to justice extends beyond the courtroom:
Community Leadership Experience
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Community First Credit Union Community Advisory Council Chair
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Leadership Jacksonville NextGen 2019 Class Member
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Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
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Men of Valor Mentorship Director
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Pianist and Worship Director at Phillip R. Cousins AME Church
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Volunteer Football Coach
Marcus’s Campaign Messaging emphasizes service, integrity, and justice, aiming to make a positive impact on Duval County. Discover more about his candidacy at the link below.
ATTORNEY MARCUS ISOM
NADINE EBRI
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Nadine Ebri
Candidate for Duval County School Board, District 1
Nadine Ebri’s story is one of resilience and dedication. Influenced by her mother’s unwavering belief in the power of education, and its ability to provide transformation, Nadine’s path has been marked by her commitment to education and technology. She earned her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education (2013), Master’s in Educational Leadership (2018), and Doctorate in Educational Leadership (2023) from the University of North Florida. She has 10 years of experience as an educator in Duval County.
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Nadine’s Key Messaging:
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To be a bold voice and steadfast advocate for our students, ensuring every child in our district has equitable access to quality education, particularly in STEM and vocational training.
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Fight to put students over politics, making their well-being and success our top priority.
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To bridge the gap between the community, parents, and our schools by creating spaces for collaboration and active participation in policy development.
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Work to create a district where every student can realize their full potential.
Learn more about Nadine and her work at the link below.
ELECTIONS DATES
2024 PRIMARY ELECTION
Early Voting
August 5 - August 18, 2024
Election Day
Tuesday, August 20 | 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Voter Registration or Party Change Deadline
Monday, July 22, 2024
Deadline to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot
Thursday, August 8, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
Deadline to return your Vote-by-Mail ballot to our Main Office
Tuesday, August 20, 2024 | 7:00 p.m.
ELECTIONS DATES
2024 GENERAL ELECTION
Early Voting
October 21 - November 3, 2024
Election Day
Tuesday, November 5, 2024 | 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Voter Registration or Party Change Deadline
Monday, October 7, 2024
Deadline to request a Vote-by-Mail ballot
Thursday, October 24, 2024 | 5:00 p.m.
Deadline to return your Vote-by-Mail ballot to the Main Office Tuesday, November 5, 2024 | 7:00 p.m.
Community Engagement Organizations
Florida Rising is dedicated to advancing economic and racial justice across the state. This people-powered organization focuses on winning elections, changing laws, and creating a safer, healthier, and more equitable Florida. Their campaigns have included Clean Air on Every Block and Yes on 4. For more information on the organization, visit the link below.
Equal Ground is committed to engaging the rising American electorate through education and empowerment. Their work includes fighting for equality, a living wage, healthcare, fair elections, and social justice. Key campaigns have included Equal Ground Day at the Capitol and various empowerment events. Learn more about their initiatives at at the link below.
