Dorothy Dowe, 2019 Candidate for Greenville City Council
Why did you choose Emerge?
I chose to apply for the Emerge program because I knew I would be running for office in 2019, and recognized that I did not have any campaign training. I was part of the fundraising team in the Upstate when we were trying to start the Emerge SC program so I was familiar with some of its established success and was open to learning as much as I could about campaigning before actually running for office.
What office are you running for and why?
I am seeking the at-large seat on Greenville City Council. I believe politics at the local level are where I can have the most impact and Greenville is at a point where strong, smart, effective leadership is needed to make the critical decisions in our community as we move forward.
What is your vision for your community?
A city where citizens are actively engaged in the decisions that affect our community — decisions about growth, transportation, traffic, trees, housing — that’s my vision for Greenville.
What/Who inspires you to run for office?
I was inspired to run for office by daughter and my mother, and former City Council member Gaye Sprague. These are very strong women who believe that hard work is what it takes to get things done. Additionally, my Huddle Group inspired me to “put myself on the bench” and have supported me throughout this journey.
Which Democratic woman inspires you and why?
Gaye Sprague, Diane Smock, Michelle Shain (all former City Council members) as well as Tiffany Santagati, my Emerge classmate. These women all bring great perspective and have counseled me though out my campaign. My campaign manager, Shelly Dezen, is also a strong Democratic woman who inspires me every day with her willingness to do whatever it takes to help get me elected!
What’s the one thing you gained from Emerge and would like to share with others?
There were many things, but the Emerge session on fundraising and SC ethics filings have been the most helpful along the way.