Wellington Webb facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wellington Webb
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| 42nd Mayor of Denver | |
| In office July 15, 1991 – July 21, 2003 |
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| Preceded by | Federico Peña |
| Succeeded by | John Hickenlooper |
| 57th President of the United States Conference of Mayors | |
| In office 1999–2000 |
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| Preceded by | Deedee Corradini |
| Succeeded by | Brent Coles |
| Member of the Colorado House of Representatives |
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| In office 1973–1977 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | February 17, 1941 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | |
| Children | 4 |
| Education | Colorado State College (BA, MA) |
Wellington E. Webb (born February 17, 1941) is an American politician. He made history as the first African American mayor of Denver, Colorado. He served as mayor for 12 years, from 1991 to 2003. Before becoming mayor, he was a member of the Colorado House of Representatives. Webb is a member of the Democratic Party.
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Early Life and Education
Wellington Webb's family moved from Chicago to Denver, Colorado, in 1954. He was a tall and active young person who enjoyed sports. He graduated from Manual High School in Denver.
Webb played basketball at Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado. He was an all-conference player in 1960. Later, he earned two degrees from Colorado State College. He received his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in sociology in 1964. In 1971, he earned his Master of Arts (MA) in sociology from the same school. Today, this school is known as the University of Northern Colorado.
Early Political Career
In 1972, Wellington Webb was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives. He represented the northeast part of Denver.
After serving in the state legislature, President Jimmy Carter chose Webb for a special role. In 1977, Webb became the regional director for the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
In 1981, Colorado Governor Richard Lamm appointed Webb to his team. Webb became the executive director of the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). This department helps oversee different businesses and professions in the state.
From 1987 to 1991, Webb served as the Denver city auditor. In this role, he helped make sure the city's money was being spent correctly.
Mayor of Denver
Wellington Webb ran for mayor of Denver in 1991. His campaign was known as the "Sneaker Campaign." He walked door-to-door across much of Denver. He introduced himself to many people, as he was not very well-known at the time.
Webb served as mayor of Denver for 12 years, from 1991 to 2003. During his time in office, he focused on several important areas. These included parks, public safety, economic growth, and programs for children.
Key Achievements as Mayor
One major project during his time was the South Platte River Corridor Project. This project helped to redevelop areas along the South Platte River. It brought new businesses and homes to the area. It also created new park spaces for people to enjoy.
Webb was also mayor when the Denver International Airport was finished. This large airport project was started by the previous mayor, Federico Peña.
Under Mayor Webb's leadership, Denver saw a big drop in crime. Crime rates decreased by 40 percent since 1991. Unemployment also went down to less than 2 percent.
Other important projects during his time included:
- A new sports stadium for the city.
- An expansion of the Denver Art Museum.
- A new African American Research Library.
Webb also held important leadership roles for mayors across the country. He was president of the National Conference Democratic Mayors. He also led the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National Conference of Black Mayors.
Later Career and Legacy
After his time as mayor, Webb continued to be active in public life. He often gives talks about important community issues. He was also a guest speaker at the Harvard Kennedy School. He works closely with his wife, Wilma Webb, who was also a Colorado State Representative.
In 2007, Webb published his autobiography. It is called The Man, the Mayor and the Making of Modern Denver. He wrote it with journalist Cindy Brovsky.
In 2008, Webb supported Barack Obama and Joe Biden for president. He served as one of Colorado's presidential electors.
Buildings Named in His Honor
Two important buildings in Denver are named after Wellington Webb.
- The Wellington E. Webb Municipal Office Building was completed in 2002. It houses many city offices and agencies.
- The Wellington E. Webb Center for Primary Care opened in 2006. It is a community health center at Denver Health Medical Center. It was the first of its kind in the country.
Personal Life
Wellington Webb has been married to Wilma Webb since 1969. They have four children together.
