REV. DR. PORTIA W. ROCHELLE
Raleigh City Council At-Large
As a candidate for Raleigh City Council At-Large, Dr. Portia Rochelle is committed to making a difference in the lives of the citizens of Raleigh. For the 47 years she has lived in the city, she has earned the reputation of being a transformative servant leader. She sees Raleigh as a place uniquely positioned for continuing growth and opportunity, and she wants to ensure every citizen can take advantage of the rich resources and benefits the area has to offer.
Dr. Rochelle has served with a strong belief in God that guides and offers hope for us all. She is founding Pastor-Teacher of “Word for Transformation Church and Outreach Center” in Raleigh. She served as associate minister at Macedonia New Life Church. She has volunteered in various school, and community organizations including: Den Leader and Assistant Cub Master of Occoneechee Cub Scout Pack 390; Carolina Pines Girl Scouts Troop 433; Enloe High School and Conn Elementary School Mentor/Tutor programs; the Board of Directors of Women in Ministry Support Group and the Fuquay-Varina Community Development Corporation.
She served as an Executive Board Member of Strengthening the Black Family Conference, Inc. and as Vice President of the Raleigh Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance. She served as a Board Member for the Pleasant Grove Church Dream Academy Foundation.
From 2008 until 2018, Dr. Rochelle served with distinction as the President of the Raleigh-Apex NAACP Branch. In this capacity, she became well-known throughout the state as a fearless and tireless advocate for justice and civil rights.
Dr. Rochelle completed over 30 years of service in NC State Government. She is a recipient of the State of North Carolina Order of The Long Leaf Pine Award, an honor given to state employees for outstanding service.
Dr. Rochelle matriculated in the public schools of nearby Fuquay-Varina. Upon graduation, she earned degrees from Wake Tech Community College and the historic Shaw University. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from Shaw and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Drew University in Madison, New Jersey.
Dr. Rochelle has two children: a daughter Marissa R. Seawall and a son, Christopher Rochelle (daughter-in-law Tai). She has four adorable grandchildren, Venetia, DeVoy, Brittany, and Ryan.