Meet Corey Branch, a true Raleigh native who has dedicated his life to serving and improving our beloved city in countless ways. As a Raleigh City Councilor, District C representative, and immediate past Mayor Pro Tem, Corey's journey has been defined by a commitment to progress, unity, and inclusivity.

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Corey's educational roots trace back to the Wake County Public School system, where he attended Fuller Elementary, Ligon Middle, and Enloe High Schools. His matriculation journey instilled in him a deep appreciation for the foundation our schools provide. Corey pursued higher education at North Carolina A&T State University, graduating in 2000 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He embraces "Aggie Pride" and supports his alma mater, celebrating its contributions to his growth as a leader, thinker, and doer.

Before joining the city council, Corey served the community in various roles. He notably chaired the Marrkens Development Group and contributed to the Board of Directors for WakeUp Wake County, where he advocated for South and Southeast Raleigh while keeping the entire city and Wake County under consideration.

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Corey's current role as Chair of the Transportation and Transit Committee is pivotal in the quest for a modern and reliable transit system. He represents Raleigh on the Go Triangle Board and is the representative to the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO). He is also the Vice Chair for the Growth and Natural Resources Committee, where he focuses on reviews of zoning cases and their potential impact on our environment. He committed 8 years as a member of the Passage Homes board, demonstrating his commitment to accessible housing and community development and he committed 6 years as a member of the Artspace Board of Directors. His involvement in the Economic Development and Innovation committee and his role as the council liaison for the Fair Housing Board showcase his dedication to economic growth and housing equality. In his time as a Councilmember, he has also served as the liaison to the Raleigh Convention Center Board, the Substance Use Committee, Raleigh Sister Cites, and the Raleigh Arts Commission. He has gained a significant knowledge base from working and serving alongside diverse citizens on these various boards and brings those perspectives to the decisions he makes at the council table.

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Throughout his journey, Corey has consistently fostered open dialogues and community conversations. From organizing "Barbershop Talks" that brought citizens and the Raleigh Police Department together to leading efforts in city funding for Advance Community Health, his impact on Raleigh's unity and progress has been unwavering.

Beyond his civic duties, Corey finds fulfillment in serving his faith community at Baptist Grove Church where he contributes to ensuring the weekly message rings loud an clear as a member of the Karygma Ministry. The ministry focuses on media and Corey specifically works on the sound engineering so that the services can be heard clearly in the building and on the video broadcast.

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Corey's unwavering commitment to community and leadership also extend to the numerous leadership positions he has held within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., across local, state, and regional chapters. His role as the past National Chair of the Leadership Development Institute of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated allowed him to extend his passion for leadership to high school students, where he expanded the Summer Leadership Institute's participation by 43% during his tenure. Planning and organizing the registration, housing on an HBCU campus, workshop materials and speakers, educational, cultural, and leisure activities, and awards for the nearly week long event stretched Corey’s capacity to work with multiple stakeholders and ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.

Corey's journey has truly come full circle as he represents his native District C as a City Council Member. It's a role that resonates with him deeply, considering that his first job was with the City of Raleigh at City Hall, working in the finance department and mail services.



 

In his personal life, Corey finds joy in supporting his wife Chanda, a dedicated educator in Wake County Public Schools, the founder of Modern Black Mommy, and the reigning Ms. Black USA. Their beautiful daughter Carleigh is the light of their lives. Together, they savor the simple pleasures of life – family, friends, sports, Netflix, and good food.

Corey Branch is not just a public servant; he's a bridge builder, a community advocate, and a leader dedicated to Raleigh's growth and prosperity. His journey is a testament to the difference one person can make in our beloved city, and he's committed to bringing us all along on this exciting journey to a brighter future.