David Crockett embraces his role as one of a
handful of Black elected officials in Orange County
In 2020, facing a global pandemic and a national cry to address inequality and injustice, David Crockett entered the race for a seat on the Rancho Santiago Community College (RSCCD) Board of Trustees as a first-time candidate. He campaigned to strengthen our ties with local businesses and partners on vocational training programs and internships. Furthermore, he wanted to ensure that RSCCD continued to be a provider of affordable and high-quality education. To Crockett's surprise, he won the race and secured more votes than the second and third-place finishers combined.
Entering his fourth year on the RSCCD Board of Trustees, Crockett is currently only one of five Black-elected officials in Orange County and the only one in higher education. “I benefitted from the affordable and quality education community colleges provided, and I am dedicated to ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities," commented Crockett.
Growing up as one of 14 children in Matewan, West Virginia, education held paramount importance in Crockett's family. His father was a coal miner, enduring hours of physical hardship to support the family, while his mother raised the children and managed the household. Their sacrifices and dedication left a profound impact on Crockett, shaping his values and sense of responsibility. His father, actively involved in community service, instilled in him a strong sense of duty and continuously encouraged him to "Do Something – Be Great!"
Upon relocating to Santa Ana in 2010, Crockett translated his father's guidance into action, becoming deeply involved in serving the local community. His innate warmth and approachability endeared him to individuals from all walks of life, transcending barriers of race, occupation, income, and social status. Describing his ability to connect with people as his "superpower," Crockett emphasized his commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding across differences, leading with a spirit of empathy and compassion.
Nevertheless, Crockett remains humble, recognizing that his accomplishments, both personal and political, are deeply intertwined with the steadfast support and inspiration from his wife, family, and friends. They have been his rock, offering encouragement and guidance, enabling him to pursue his aspirations with determination and resilience.
Through their unwavering support, Crockett can easily carry his superpower into the RSCCD boardroom as he takes on the responsibility of stewardship of taxpayer's dollars. “I care about the people in this District and am committed to pursuing programs to serve our community while being fiscally responsible. By doing so, I can do my part to help families prepare for living wage and above jobs in this ever-changing environment."
As an elected official in Orange County, Crockett offers advice for anyone wanting to run for public office, even against difficult odds.
- Develop a proper campaign and communicate with a vast audience.
- Understand the OC attitude. What works in LA may not work in the OC.
- YOYO – You Own Your Own. Cultivate a welcoming and inclusive spirit. It's the only way to get people to follow and support you.
- Show the value you bring to the office and then “Go for it!"
Crockett is heeding this father's advice to get involved and “Do Something." As a leader in the Black community and an advocate for the middle class, he is fulfilling the second half of his dad's wish, “Be Great!"
