Floyd McKissick Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Floyd McKissick Jr.
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Member of the North Carolina Senate from the 20th district |
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In office 2007 – Jan. 7, 2020 |
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Preceded by | Jeanne Hopkins Lucas |
Succeeded by | Mickey Michaux |
Personal details | |
Born | Durham, North Carolina |
November 21, 1952
Political party | Democratic |
Alma mater | Clark University UNC-Chapel Hill Harvard University Duke University |
Occupation | Attorney |
Floyd Bixler McKissick Jr. (born November 21, 1952) is an American lawyer and former politician. He served as a member of the North Carolina Senate for the Democratic party. He was first chosen for the Senate in 2007. He was later elected by voters and served until 2020.
In 2011, he became the Deputy Minority Leader in the Senate. He also led the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus. After leaving the Senate, he was appointed to the state Utilities Commission. Floyd McKissick Jr. is the son of the famous civil rights leader, Floyd McKissick.
Floyd McKissick Jr.'s Education and Career
Floyd McKissick Jr. has a strong background in law. He works in different areas of law, including helping businesses and people with legal issues. He also helps people who are accused of crimes.
He earned an A.B. Degree in Geography from Clark University in Massachusetts. He then received a master's degree in Regional Planning from UNC-Chapel Hill. Later, he earned another master's degree in Public Administration from Harvard University. He completed his law degree (Juris Doctor) at Duke University School of Law.
McKissick has been practicing law since 1983. He has worked with several law firms. Since 1990, he has practiced with McKissick & McKissick.
He also helped write a guide for the U.S. Department of Commerce. This guide was about how to attract foreign businesses to the United States. In 1999, McKissick ran for mayor of Durham, but he was not elected.
Joining the North Carolina Senate
In 2007, a position opened in the North Carolina State Senate. This happened because Senator Jeanne Hopkins Lucas passed away. The Democratic Party in Durham chose Floyd McKissick Jr. to fill this open spot. He was appointed by Governor Mike Easley.
After his appointment, McKissick was elected by the people of his district. He continued to serve in the Senate for many years. He worked on laws and policies important to North Carolina.