A Look at Cherelle Parker: Lincoln University Alum and Democratic Philly Mayor Primary Candidate.

It’s always a moment of pride to see one of Lincoln University’s own making a difference in the world. Cherelle Parker, a proud Lion with a BS in English Education, is currently running for mayor in Philadelphia. If she wins the general election in November, she will be the first woman to lead the city of brotherly love. Let’s look closer at Cherelle Parker, her journey from Lincoln University to the political arena, and her vision for Philadelphia.

Parker, a member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority,  graduated from Lincoln in 1994, after which she briefly taught high school English and ESL courses in Pleasantville, N.J. Having worked as an intern in the office of Philadelphia City Council member Marian B. Tasco in high school, she returned to join Tasco’s staff in 1995.

Parker started her political career in 2005 by running for and winning the 9th District seat for Pennsylvania House of Representatives, which she then held for 10 years. In 2015, Parker was elected to the Philadelphia City Council by a vast majority. In her role as a City Council member, she has become known for her advocacy on behalf of working-class families. 

During her campaign, Parker promised to create pathways for small business owners, work toward expanding affordable healthcare, and prioritize public safety reforms that uplift the community. She has also promised to invest in workforce development programs that benefit Philadelphians, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

Parker has authored numerous bills on issues ranging from education and affordable housing to health care and criminal justice reform. Among her most notable achievements are:

• Philadelphia Land Bank: an initiative designed to make it easier for residents to acquire abandoned properties and convert them into affordable housing. 
• Co-creator of Power Up Your Business: an entrepreneurship program created in collaboration with Community College of Philadelphia.
• Restore, Repair, Renew: an initiative of the City of Philadelphia to help Philadelphia homeowners access low-interest loans to invest in their properties.
• Belief in education: In 2012, she secured $148M in funds to stop the closing of schools during the great recession. Recently, she has been vocal about year-round schooling programs to help reverse the loss of education children experienced during the pandemic. As a former educator, she supports involving technical education programs in early education curricula to better prepare students for future opportunities.

As a Democratic primary candidate for Philadelphia mayor, Parker brings a fresh perspective and a bold vision for the city's future. She envisions a Philadelphia that prioritizes equitable access to quality education, economic growth, and affordable housing for all its residents. Parker's commitment to transparency, community engagement, and grassroots empowerment resonates with many who yearn for a more inclusive and prosperous city.

Parker is a testament to the power of a Lincoln University education. Her commitment to public service and her dedication to her community make her an incredible leader and inspiration. Her journey from a Lincoln student to a prominent political figure demonstrates the lasting impact of an education rooted in social responsibility and academic excellence. 

Parker's accomplishments have paved the way for women and people of color, and her candidacy for the mayor in Philadelphia is a significant milestone for all of us. We commend her for her commitment to public service, and we remain confident in her ability to lead and implement policies that will positively impact the lives of Philadelphians. 

Parker's vision for a fair and just Philadelphia is inspiring, and we look forward to her victory in November. Go Lions!