Pastor / Representative James D. Gailliard

Prolific visionary, pioneer and leader, Pastor and Representative James David Gailliard has seamlessly combined the principles of pastoral ministry and public policy to form a collaborative model of human, socio-economic and community development. His vision has given birth to nine independent, yet collaborative Centers addressing Capacity Building; Childhood, College & Career Readiness; Culinary Arts & Hospitality; Faith & Family; Health & Wellness; Leadership Development & Capacity Building; Media & Broadcast and Performing Arts & Worship. Since 2005, he has pastored Word Tabernacle Church in Rocky Mount, NC. It is through his leadership and forethought that he is passionately pursuing and securing a better future for Eastern North Carolinians, and for North Carolinians as a whole. Representative Gailliard is currently
serving his second term in the North Carolina General Assembly. As a State Representative, he serves on five Standing Committees, of which Health is one.

The product of an extraordinary union during even more extraordinary times, the racially charged environment of the 1960’s, James David is the son of Wesley Stephen Gailliard III and Ruth Mae Gailliard, an interracial couple who courageously defied the odds by marrying when it was not socially acceptable to do so. His academic background is an unusual combination of theology, counseling, and business administration. As a Morehouse man he was named to both Honor Roll and Dean’s Lists. He furthered his studies at St. Joseph’s University. He is the loving father of five, a grandfather, husband to Angela, and the spiritual father, son, and brother to many. In his spare time James enjoys riding his motorcycle and engaging in a game of billiards.

Community Involvements

• • • • Commissioner, My Future NC
      • Board of Trustees, Louisburg College
      • Board of Preachers, Morehouse College
      • Board of Directors, Kiwanis Club
      • Fellow, North Carolina Institute of Political Leadership