Candidate Biography (submitted by campaign):

Earl Sheridan was born in Wilmington and educated in the local school system.  He received his bachelor's degree in political science from Appalachian State University in 1975 and his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Tennessee in 1980.  Upon graduation Dr. Sheridan returned to Wilmington as a political science professor at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where he continues as a full professor.

Additionally, he served as chair of the political science department for eight years (1992-2000).  He is a life-long member of Mount Olive AME Church and has served on many local boards and commissions.  He is married to his childhood friend and schoolmate Sandra.  In 2005 Dr. Sheridan was elected to a seat on the Wilmington City Council where he works diligently to uplift and advance the community that nurtured him.

For the past four years I have been privileged to serve on the Wilmington City Council where I have been able  to bring greater transparency to government by revising the process of filling council vacancies, create an apparatus to diminish youth violence by helping to start a Blue Ribbon Commission on Youth Violence, and help devise a plan to extend internet access throughout Wilmington.  Working collaboratively I have been able to help add more park space to our city, build more affordable housing and bring about greater economic development.  But there is still more to be done.  In the next four years I would like to increase the number of sidewalks and bike paths, further diminish youth violence and continue my efforts at economic development, affordable housing and closing the digital divide.  Please give me your vote on November 3.  I will provide responsible government and keep Wilmington moving forward.