BOC 1: Shegale Crute-Thurmond

Shegale Crute-Thurmond is a paralegal fir the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office.

If you have NOT held elected office, please list relevant volunteer, appointed, or work positions.

She is currently Associate member, Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys, The National Federation of Paralegal Association and Georgia Association of Paralegals as well as the Georgia Women in Agriculture. Shegale currently serves on the Citizens for Progressive Transit Board of Directors, MARTA Stakeholder Advisory Committee for Clayton County. Organizations and initiatives such as Clayton County Department of Family & Children Services Board of Directors, Clayton County Family Care Board of Directors, United Way WINGs (Women’s Initiative Next Generation) Board of Directors & Fundraising Vice-Chair, Fulton County Juvenile Court Blue Ribbon Panel, Hands on Atlanta, United Way ‘Peoplestown’ Mentoring Program, The Giving Tree Board of Directors, Citizens for Progressive Transit Board of Directors, and Clayton County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) have all benefited from Shegale’s talents and drive for change. Shegale is a former member of Rotary International and formerly served as Co-Chairwoman for the Southern Crescent Federation of Democratic Women. She is also a 2009 White House Project Alumnae.

What makes you the best candidate for this particular district?

I believe that I am the best candidate for this position because I have served in Clayton County for over 23 years. I have raised my family here and I have experienced the ups and the downs but I have a passion for our great county and believe that my experience and skillset can help to change the trajectory of the county. I truly understand what a commissioner does. I have been a paralegal for over 25 years and have training in contracts, litigation, mergers and acquisitions. This line of work brings me to the table with a particular skillset that give me the ability to hit the ground running

on day one because of my understanding of details, zonings, ordinances and contracts. I have worked for the County and understand how to get things done. In addition, I have attended all of the meetings this year, so I won’t have to play catch up. And finally, I am clear on what the District 1 citizens want. I have heard their concerns and am ready to work hard to address them.

What do you see as the strengths of your district?

We are strategically position between three counties and our district has the most access (11 of 18) off of the expressways. District 1 is a jewel with extreme potential. Logistically it is in a perfect place to develop both residential and entertainment that can serve not only Clayton County residents, but the entire Southern Crescent

How do you handle conflict/people who disagree with you?

Listen of course. Take opportunities to meet with them, and come to an understanding. It is important that although we may not agree, that we remain open and diplomatic in our approach.

What one project would you like to accomplish in the next 4 years if elected?

Beautification and redevelopment. I want to be known as the Commissioner who served our the citizens effectively. Accessible and responsive and also who changed the face of the county.

Anything else people should know about you?

They should know that I am passionate about Clayton County and will get the job done. If the citizens elect me, I will be committed for the seat that they elected me for, I have no alliances or agenda that I am tied to that will affect my ability to go to bat for the district. My plan is to bring it home for District 1.