Carlos Clanton was elected to the Norfolk City Council beginning January 1, 2025, to represent the residents of Superward 7.

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A proud native son of Norfolk, Councilman Clanton was raised in the Lambert’s Point and Park Place communities. As the eldest of three siblings, he developed a strong sense of leadership from an early age. Shaped by humble beginnings, he developed a deep understanding of resilience and purpose, fueling his lifelong commitment to being a catalyst for positive change. That commitment has made him a trusted and respected voice for residents across the city.

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A graduate of Maury High School (Go Commodores!), Councilman Clanton earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Training with a Minor in Leadership from Old Dominion University and is currently completing a Master of Public Administration (MPA). He also holds a certificate in Nonprofit Management from the Academy for Nonprofit Excellence at Tidewater Community College, demonstrating his commitment to ongoing learning and effective public service.

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Before joining the City Council, Councilman Clanton made history as the youngest and first African American appointed Director of the Norfolk Division of the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. In that role, he worked with business and civic leaders to strengthen local businesses and champion regional economic development. In 2018, he was elected to the Norfolk City School Board, where he served as Vice Chair and Chair. During his tenure, he focused on improving educational equity and outcomes for all students by partnering with community stakeholders and advocating for smart public policy.

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His passion for service has extended to leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. He has served as National President of the National Urban League Young Professionals and on several General Organization Commissions of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He was also the longtime Regional Board Chair of the Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts, and served on the Board of Directors for Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs (SECEP) until December 2024.

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Currently, Councilman Clanton serves on several key regional and national bodies, including:

• Board of Directors and Executive Committee, VisitNorfolk

• Advisory Board, Tidewater Council of the Boy Scouts of America

• Board of Directors, G.W.C. Brown Legacy Education Fund

• Member, Hampton Roads Planning District Commission Board

• Member, Hampton Roads Planning District Commission Regional Housing Study Committee

• Co-Chair, Mayor’s Housing Commission

• Co-Chair, Mayor’s St. Paul’s Advisory Commission

• Appointee, National League of Cities’ REAL Council (Race, Equity and Leadership)

• Member, NBC-LEO (National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials)

• Member, Virginia Municipal League (VML)

• Member, Virginia First Cities Coalition

 

In addition to his civic and professional commitments, Councilman Clanton is a dedicated artist and community advocate. He has performed as a vocalist with the Virginia Opera for 35 years and remains an active member of New Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk.

 

Councilman Clanton believes that leadership is not about titles, but about impact. “Leadership is not about a title or position; it’s about listening, serving, and empowering others to reach their full potential.”

His steadfast dedication to service, strategic collaboration, and authentic community engagement drives his work to ensure Superward 7, and all of Norfolk, is a city where everyone can thrive.