[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 178 (Monday, October 30, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1029]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING MAYOR JOYCE WHICHARD-BROWN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DONALD G. DAVIS

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 30, 2023

  Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I honor a remarkable 
leader, trailblazer, and advocate for the beloved Town of Williamston. 
It is my distinct privilege to stand before you and pay tribute to a 
woman whose dedication and unwavering commitment to our community have 
left an indelible mark on our hearts and history books. Today, I 
celebrate Mayor Joyce Whichard-Brown, the first African American and 
first female mayor of Williamston.
  Mayor Whichard-Brown's leadership journey began in Williamston, where 
she was born and graduated from EJ Hayes High School. She then moved to 
Virginia and worked in the U.S. Patent Office and various private law 
practices. In 2005, she returned to her hometown, Williamston, North 
Carolina, and has served as mayor since 2015.
  Her accomplishments extend far beyond Williamston. She served on the 
North Carolina League of Municipalities Board of Directors. She has 
also taken on the role of vice chair of the Highway 17/64 Commission 
and initiated the quarterly mayor's meetings, fostering regional 
partnerships and cooperation. Under her guidance, the Town has seen 
significant improvements, such as the major upgrade to a fire 
department building and the transformation of the Stalls Building into 
a state-of-the-art police department facility. Mayor Whichard-Brown 
secured approval for the renovation of Gaylord Perry Park, making it 
more accessible and enjoyable for citizens.
  Her tireless efforts also led to a substantial HUD grant of $750,000, 
dedicated to housing revitalization and downtown renovation. Moreover, 
she was pivotal in securing over $1 million in grants to complete the 
Roanoke River Boardwalk.
  New businesses have thrived under her leadership, raising property 
tax-assessed values and breathing new life into the Town. Mayor 
Whichard-Brown has shown unshakable resolve, a willingness to stand her 
ground, and a remarkable ability to maintain her sense of humor. She 
led with grace, strength, and an unwavering commitment to her 
community.
  Retiring from the Town, she can spend more time with her two 
children, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Let's not 
forget Mayor Whichard-Brown's lesser-known talent, her incredible 
singing voice, which she generously shares at an annual stampede.
  I thank her for her service and look forward to the continued 
positive impacts in the town.

                          ____________________