Byron Dickens, a two-time veteran with over 20 years of service in the United States Marine Corps and the U.S. Army Reserves, is running for the Jackson County District 1 Commissioner seat. He brings with him a new generation of leadership that balances tradition and forward-thinking. A patriot through and through, Dickens is committed to preserving the values and culture of the Jackson County community while also building a future that benefits all residents.
As a man of action, Dickens isn’t running simply for the title—he’;s running to serve. His campaign slogan, “I will never quit,” speaks to his lifelong commitment to hard work and resilience. It’s a testament to his dedication to Jackson County and his determination to create a brighter future.
Dickens is challenging an incumbent who has held the office for 28 years, advocating for a much-needed shift in leadership. His message is clear: the people of Jackson County deserve a fresh, innovative approach to governance—one that listens to the needs of all citizens, especially the often-underrepresented.
Born in Tallahassee and raised between Chattahoochee and Greenwood, Dickens has deep roots in Jackson County. He considers the area his home, having lived there for much of his life. After graduating from Chattahoochee High School, he joined the Marines and was thrust into service following the attacks of September 11, 2001. His military service includes two deployments—one to Djibouti during Operation Enduring Freedom and another to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as part of the Army Reserves.
Throughout his military career, Dickens has held leadership roles and managed significant responsibilities, including overseeing large budgets, leading training programs, and building relationships with organizations across the region. His military service highlights his ability to work under pressure, manage resources effectively, and lead diverse teams—all qualities that will serve him well as a county commissioner.
But his commitment to community goes beyond his military service. Dickens is the founder of The Emancipation Day Festival of Northwest Florida, a non-profit organization that celebrates Emancipation Day while promoting family and community engagement. His efforts led to Jackson County officially proclaiming May 20th as Emancipation Day, and he expanded this initiative to the local school system, creating the “Freedom Month Observance” resolution, ensuring that the entire month of May honors key American holidays, including Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, and Emancipation Day.
Dickens’ vision for Jackson County isn’t limited to historical preservation—he’s also focused on economic growth and educational empowerment. Since his 2020 campaign, he has earned both a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arkansas Grantham, underscoring his commitment to self-improvement and education. Today, he serves as a 5th-grade English and History teacher at Malone School, where he helps shape the minds of the county’s future leaders.
In addition to his work in education, Dickens is spearheading efforts to build an Emancipation History Museum at Endeavor Park, on the grounds of the former Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys. This project is a testament to his commitment to preserving and promoting African American history in Jackson County and the state of Florida. It shows his ability to bring the community together around shared goals.
Jackson County residents are looking for leadership that understands their values, culture, and needs. Dickens offers a chance for the county to embrace a forward-thinking leader who has the moral fiber, professional experience, and dedication to make a lasting difference. His campaign isn’t just about winning an election; it’s about giving back to a community that has shaped him and helping it grow in ways that reflect both its heritage and its potential.
To learn more about Byron Dickens, visit his website at www.electbyrondickens.com or follow him on Facebook @votebyrondickens.
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