About William J. Smith
Rooted in Suffolk. Guided by Service.
William J. Smith is running for Suffolk City Council in Cypress Borough with a record of real responsibility in public policy, government operations, and community leadership.
While some candidates rely on tenure alone, Will brings hands-on experience working at the highest levels of state and local government, managing complex issues, guiding legislation, and representing communities in real time. His experience is not theoretical—it is earned.
A Life Shaped by Community
Growing up in Suffolk taught me the importance of strong neighborhoods and people looking out for one another. I learned early that progress doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when communities are engaged and leaders are willing to listen, collaborate, and act responsibly.
Those lessons stay with me today. They guide how I approach challenges, how I work with others, and how I believe local government should function.
Education
Will earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Virginia State University in 2018.
His academic training provided a strong foundation in government structure, public policy, and civic leadership—preparation that he has put into practice throughout his professional career.
Professional Public Service Experience
External Affairs Representative III
Dominion Energy | December 2024 – Present
In his current role, Will serves as a senior liaison between Dominion Energy and local governments, elected officials, and community organizations across Virginia’s Eastern Region.
His work includes:
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Coordinating directly with local leaders on infrastructure projects and community impact
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Leading stakeholder engagement around grid modernization, offshore wind, and rate reform
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Developing public messaging related to infrastructure improvements and emergency updates
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Expanding philanthropic partnerships with nonprofit organizations, increasing regional community grant funding by 30% year over year
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Analyzing state and local legislation to guide compliance, advocacy, and long-term policy alignment
This role places Will at the intersection of government, infrastructure, policy, and community trust—experience directly relevant to City Council service.
Chief of Staff
Office of Senate President Pro Tempore L. Louise Lucas | 2022 – 2024
As Chief of Staff to the President Pro Tempore of the Virginia Senate, Will operated at the highest level of state government.
In this role, he:
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Led legislative strategy and prepared all talking points and speeches
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Facilitated high-level negotiations to build bipartisan support for legislation
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Supported leadership of the state budget process as the Senator served as Chair of Finance and Appropriations
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Served as the primary liaison to elected officials, agency leaders, and community stakeholders
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Managed sensitive and high-priority issues requiring swift, disciplined response
This experience gave Will direct insight into how policy becomes law and how effective leadership navigates complexity and competing interests.
Chief of Staff
Office of Delegate Angelia Williams Graves | 2020 – 2022
Will served as the Delegate’s top strategist for:
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Legislative initiatives and public policy decisions
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Media outreach and official communications
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Constituent services and casework
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Legislative testimony and committee preparation
He managed all external communications and ensured constituents’ concerns were addressed through state agencies—experience that mirrors the casework and responsiveness expected of City Council members.
Chief of Staff
Board of Commissioners Potomac District | 2019 – 2020
In local government, Will provided direct operational and strategic support to a District Supervisor, working on:
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Transportation projects
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Land use cases
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Board and district meeting preparation
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Constituent communications during the COVID-19 pandemic
This role gave him practical experience with local land use, infrastructure planning, and district-level governance.
Boards, Commissions & Community Leadership
Will’s commitment to service extends well beyond his professional roles. He currently serves—or has served—with the following organizations:
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Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
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Alpha Kappa Psi
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Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
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Friends of the Portsmouth Juvenile Court, Vice President
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Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority
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Elizabeth River Project
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The Hermitage Museum & Gardens, Board of Directors
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Hermitage Museum & Gardens Engagement Committee, Chair
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Nauticus
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Portsmouth Business Partnership
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Saint Paul College Museum & Archives Advisory Board
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Fatherhood Foundation of Virginia
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F&AM Lodge of Daniel #004, Suffolk
Through this service, Will has worked on issues ranging from housing and environmental stewardship to economic development, youth advocacy, and cultural preservation.
Leadership for This Moment
Suffolk is growing, and the decisions ahead require leaders who understand policy, process, and people.
Will Smith brings:
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Direct experience inside legislative and executive government
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Proven ability to manage complex issues
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A strong record of community and board service
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The energy of a new generation—and the preparation to govern immediately
He is ready to serve Cypress Borough with seriousness, skill, and respect for the responsibility of public office.
Call to Action
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