In celebration of Women's History Month, the late Jacqueline Howard “Jackie” Pearce has been highlighted on the City of Sanford’s website.
Jackie Pearce made history in 1973 when she became the first woman elected to Sanford City Council. Pearce represented Ward 1 from 1973 to 1977 and from 1979 to 1983. She was voted mayor pro tem in 1981.
Serving as a City council member (then called an alderman) was Pearce’s first elected position, though she had worked on political campaigns before seeking office. Involvement at the local level was a core tenet of Pearce's beliefs. "The city government is the one closest to us, and the one we can do something about," she told The Sanford Herald in 1973.
The City of Sanford hopes its highlight on Pearce will inspire current residents to follow her example by running for office or serving on a board or commission.
To add photos, articles, or memories of Jackie Pearce, contact Public Information Officer Kelly Miller at 919-718-4658 x0 or via email.