Mark R. Shepherd | |
|---|---|
| File:MarkShepherd.jpg | |
| Personal details | |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Occupation | Politician |
Mark R. Shepherd (December 5, 1953 – April 17, 2011) was an environmental consultant, politician, strategist and radio personality from the state of California from 2002 until his death. A Congressional Field Representative for California's 46th Congressional District from May 2002 to October 2008, Shepherd came to be known as "Mr. Democrat" by the people he served in San Bernardino County, because of his commitment and dedication to local politics, people, businesses and organizations. [1]. Shepherd served two terms as chairman of the San Bernardino County Democratic Central Committee and was active in the Redlands, Yucaipa-Calimesa and San Bernardino Democratic clubs. He served as a member of the Environmental and Progressive Caucus of the California Democratic Party, was a delegate to the California State Democratic Conventions from 1993 through 2010 and also served as an officer with the Sons of the Golden West. In recent years, Shepherd worked as a consultant for The Nature Conservancy [2] focusing on preservation of the Mojave Desert. In December of 2010 he began hosting the weekly "Political Hour" program on KCAA radio [3] where he showcased local politics and the work of local activists.
Rep. Joe Baca, D-Rialto, for whom Shepherd worked for six years credited Shepherd with reuniting the local Democratic party after a decade-long rift.[4] "He's totally dedicated his whole life to building the Democratic Party," Baca said. "That was his family."[5]. Shepherd championed the rights and interests of the "little people" and worked hard to protect union jobs [6]
Mark Shepherd was born in Fresno, California, and his family later moved to San Bernardino. He studied political science at Chapman University, spending a year traveling the world with Chapman's World Campus Afloat program.<ref="teste">[2]. He went on to do graduate work in human services at California State University, San Bernardino. He served as a speaker and social worker with the Redlands Yucaipa Guidance Clinic and was proud of his work with at-risk youth.
External links
edit- Farewell to Mr. Democrat
- Democratic Activist Dies
- Former Democratic Party Chairman Dies
- Friends Mourn Loss of Former Chairman of S.B. County Democratic Central Committee
- League of Women Voters SmartVoter.org
- Baca Jockeys to Become Power Broker
- Papers Reveal Rift in Party
- Opencongress.org
Category:1953 births Category:2011 deaths Category:Chapman University alumni Category:California (state) Democrats