The Rockingham County Board of Elections has a new leader.
Ophelia Wright was sworn in within 24 hours of being appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper to head the county's elections board. She served as chair during her first meeting with board members this week.
She's no stranger to Rockingham County. Wright, a Democrat from Reidsville, served for four years on the local board of education. She was also a teacher in the school system for more than three decades.
The new chairwoman is the first Black person to hold the position. She comes to the organization at a time when there's been a lot of change and disagreement among board members. Wright says she's proud to serve in this role and hopes to bring unity and some fresh ideas.
“That's my main purpose in getting involved with the board of elections and I would hope that...it is my vision that we can do what we need to do for Rockingham County as far as elections are concerned,” she says.
There are three Democrats and two Republicans on the Rockingham County Board of Elections. Wright fills the position left vacant by Chairman Royce Richardson, who recently resigned.
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