Issue link: http://papercitymagazine.uberflip.com/i/1376329
seat opened up in Dockery's ward, Mayor Moerbe urged her mentee to run for the seat. She did, and she won. Jan Dockery is the first person of color to hold the office of city council member and the office of mayor in this small Texas town, population south of 5,000. Growing up in La Grange, Dockery thought she stood out not because of the color of her skin, but because she didn't have a father at home. She felt like being the child of a single parent put her in the spotlight, and her thought was: "If I'm going to be in the spotlight, then I'm going to shine." She was the kind of kid who always tried to make good choices, and she genuinely wanted to set a standard for other people of color. To this day, she is a woman of great faith who will tell you, "I'm just following the path that the Lord has set out for me." On February 4, 2021, the incumbent mayor of La Grange announced that she would not run for an 11th term. Instead, she endorsed Dockery as the trusted candidate to lead the city. Dockery revived her campaign slogan from her city Jan Dockery is the first person of color to hold the office of city council member and the office of mayor in this small Texas town. council run; "Homegrown and ready to serve my hometown." Organically, her campaign grew. People actually approached her to volunteer, place signs in yards, and knock on doors. She was shocked at how residents already knew her, as word of mouth had spread her solid reputation. It's no surprise that after 28 years with the school board, Dockery's platform was weighted heavily on the youth of La Grange. From her perspective, La Grange lacks in activities for the children and young parents of the area, and she would like to see resources spent on adding quality programs and facilities to the town. She's also concerned about affordable housing and the fact that many businesses have left the central town square. As newly elected mayor, she's trusting that teamwork within the city council will help her see positive changes during the two-year term she'll serve. Although she's still "in awe of winning," she's grateful to be of service to her hometown. And she's equally proud to be your waitress, your H-E-B team member, and your mayor. Jan Dockery is ready to serve. 30