Bernard Allen (U.S. politician) facts for kids

Bernard Allen was an important politician in North Carolina. He was born on August 24, 1937, and passed away on October 14, 2006. He was a member of the Democratic Party.

Bernard Allen represented the 33rd district in the North Carolina House of Representatives. This area included most of Raleigh, North Carolina and parts of Wake County. He served in the state's government from 2003 until his death in 2006.

Early Life and School

Bernard Allen was born on August 24, 1937. He grew up in a town called Allendale, South Carolina. His parents were James Allen, Sr., and Louise Hoover.

Bernard went to Voorhees College for a short time. Then, he moved to St. Augustine's College in Raleigh. In 1962, he earned his bachelor's degree there. Later, in 1979, he earned his master's degree from North Carolina Central University.

Bernard Allen's Career

After finishing college, Bernard Allen became a teacher. He worked in the Vance County Schools system. Over time, he moved into leadership roles within the school system.

He also spent 25 years working as a lobbyist. A lobbyist tries to convince lawmakers to support certain ideas. Bernard Allen worked for the North Carolina Association of Educators. He also worked for the North Carolina Secretary of State.

Time in Office

Bernard Allen was a member of the North Carolina General Assembly. This is North Carolina's state government. He was known for helping to create the North Carolina Education Lottery. This lottery helps raise money for schools.

He also worked hard to get more money for historically black colleges and universities in North Carolina. These are colleges that were first created to educate African American students.

His Elections

Bernard Allen ran for the North Carolina House of Representatives several times.

2002 Election

In 2002, the person who held the seat before him, Dan Blue, decided not to run again. Bernard Allen ran for the open seat. He won the election against candidates from the Republican Party and the Libertarian Party.

2004 Election

In 2004, Bernard Allen ran for re-election. He won again, defeating a Libertarian candidate.

2006 Election

Bernard Allen was serving his second term when he passed away. He was planning to run for a third term and was unopposed in the election. Because it was so close to the election date, his name was still on the ballot. After his death, Dan Blue, who had held the seat before, was chosen to take his place.

His Passing

On September 23, 2006, Bernard Allen had a mild stroke. He spent several weeks recovering in the hospital. Even from his hospital bed, he kept working until his final hours. Bernard Allen passed away on October 14, 2006, at the age of 69.

He lived in Raleigh with his wife, Vivian Sneed. They had two sons together.