Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

Employment Experience:
1986-2006 College of The Albemarle (now retired August 2006)
1979-1981 Employment Security Commission (part-time)
1974-1979 Dare County Library
1964-1974 Dare County Project Headstart

Educational Background:
1989 Elizabeth City State University, Bachelor of Science in Education, Cum Laude
1985 College of The Albemarle Associate in General Education
1959 Roanoke Island High School High School Diploma

Academic and/or Honors:
Certificate of Retirement from the NC Board of Community Colleges, Martin Lancaster
Certificate from North Carolina Senate for Outstanding Services
Certificate from House of Representatives for Outstanding Service
Certificate from State of NC "The Order of the Long Leaf Pine" from Governor Michael Easley
Certificate of Service from J.W. Hood Consistory #155 for services rendered throughout Northeastern NC
Certificate of Special Recognition from Congressman Walter B. Jones
Citizen of the Year (2006) for the County of Dare give by the Chamber of Commerce
Honored by Coastwatch, Holiday 2005 and Carolina Country, Vol. 36, Number 2, Feb 2004

Community Involvement:
Currently serving second four year term as Dare County Commissioner
North Carolina Black Leadership Caucus
Eastern North Carolina Civic Group
North Carolina Association of County Commissioner
Alliance of Black Elected Officials
Dare County Cooperative Extension Agency
Parks and Recreation and Older Adult Services for Dare County
Roanoke Island Freedman's Colony Preservation Association, President
North Carolina Association Black County Officials At-Large Director
Elizabeth City State University Board of Trustee member
North Carolina Association of County Commissioners At-Large Board of Directors member
Pass School Board member 20 years

Family Members:
Parents: Earlene and the late William Seward Simmons, Sr.
Husband: William "Snooks" Tillett (Deceased)
Children: Johnny Tillett and Michael Tillett
Grandchildren: Maya and Dominique

We have a wonderfully diverse population on the Outer Banks. While I celebrated the differences each community offers, I also strongly believe we are one county with an equal voice for all citizens. It has always been my goal to see every citizen - and every community treated with respect and appreciation for its contributions. I support efforts to ensure fair application of regulations with every segment of our community/county treated equally.

I believe growth is a positive element in a sound economy as long as that growth is planned. I support a diverse task force to study our needs and project possible solutions for growth that will enhance our county, and its communities while protecting the quality of life for our citizens and our visitors, and conserve our environment.

I believe groups can accomplish tremendous things when we work together. Construction, real estate, and tourism are a vital force in our county, creating jobs, providing housing, development business sites, attracting more visitors and new resident. The health of each of the above is reflected in our economy:  therefore it is important for our board to understand industry needs in order to support and assist with positive growth.

There is nothing more important than safe bridges, roads, transportation, water, medical and health care, and education. As our county grows, I will continue to support and measures to enhance the health and safety of all citizens in this county.

It has been said that "a rising tide lifts all ships" and I believe that if we improve our economy, it will impact "all other issues," and then everyone will benefit. They key to this county success is COMMUNICATION, COOPERATION and COLLABORATION.