Darius G. Pridgen
Buffalo
Summary
Visionary and accomplished leader with over 30 years of progressive experience in ministry, public service, education, and government. Proven expertise in strategic planning, operations management, policy creation, budget oversight, and urban development. Adept at building consensus, fostering inclusive communities, and driving positive change. A dynamic communicator and skilled negotiator with a talent for forging strong partnerships and coalitions. Recognized for exceptional leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to promoting economic growth, educational excellence, and social justice. Dedicated to empowering communities and creating opportunities for all.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Pastor
True Bethel Baptist Church
01.1994 - Current
- Provide spiritual guidance and counseling to a congregation of 4,000 members and oversee multiple church-owned entities with a combined budget of $5 million
- Manage a workforce of 11 salaried and 300 volunteer staff members, ensuring efficient operations and adherence to organizational values and ethical standards
- Collaborate with community leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to address social issues, promote community development, and drive positive change
- Spearheaded the construction of a $10 million community center, providing educational, recreational, and social services to underserved populations.
Buffalo Common Council President
City of Buffalo
01.2012 - 12.2023
- Served as the presiding officer of the Buffalo Common Council, the legislative branch of city government, overseeing a $1.2 billion annual budget and a workforce of over 3,000 employees
- Facilitated council meetings, set agendas, and ensured adherence to parliamentary procedures, ethical standards, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
- Represented the city at various events and functions, advocating for the interests of Buffalo residents and promoting economic development initiatives
- Played a pivotal role in attracting over $2 billion in private investment to the city, creating thousands of new jobs and revitalizing urban neighborhoods.
- Strengthened community relations through regular public meetings, open forums, and transparent communication.
Ellicott District Council Member
City of Buffalo
01.2011 - 12.2023
- Represented the Ellicott District on the Buffalo Common Council, addressing constituent concerns and advocating for community interests
- Served on various council committees, including urban renewal, economic development, public safety, education, and housing
- Collaborated with community stakeholders, businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to revitalize neighborhoods, attract investment, improve public services, and address issues such as crime, blight, and poverty
- Secured over $50 million in funding for infrastructure improvements, affordable housing projects, and community development initiatives in the Ellicott District.
At-Large Board Member
Buffalo Board of Education
01.1999 - 01.2002
- Contributed to policy creation and management for a 50,000-student school district with an annual budget of $500 million and a workforce of over 7,000 employees
- Served as Chairman of the New York State Big5 school board association, advocating for educational reform, equitable funding, and improved student outcomes
- Played a key role in implementing new academic standards, expanding early childhood education programs, and increasing investment in school facilities and technology.
EEO Investigator/Counselor
United States Postal Service
01.1988 - 01.1997
- Investigated allegations of discrimination and advised complainants and the Postal Service on legal rights and responsibilities
- Prepared comprehensive reports, analyses, and documentation for legal departments, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and equal employment opportunity laws
- Conducted training sessions and workshops on diversity, inclusion, and workplace harassment prevention.
Education
Master of Organizational Leadership -
Medaille College
Buffalo, NYBachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Concentration in law enforcement and criminal investigations
State University of New York at Buffalo
Buffalo, NYSkills
- Officiating
- Public Speaking
- Organizational Leadership
- Congregational care
- Sermon writing
- Sermon Preparation
- Organizational Management
- Financial Stewardship
- Grief support
- Leadership Development
- Operations Management
- Spiritual Guidance
Affiliations
- American Association of Christian Counselors
- Network of Religious Communities
- National Baptist Convention USA, Board Member
- The Urban League, Board Member
- Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency, Member
- Erie County Industrial Development Agency, Member
- Buffalo Urban Development Corporation, Member
- Buffalo Place, Member
Certifications Honors Awards
- Ministerial Ordination (Permanent)
- Certified in Spiritual Counseling (Permanent)
- Recipient of the Buffalo Urban League's Distinguished Community Service Award (2020)
- Recognized by the National Baptist Convention USA for Outstanding Leadership in Ministry (2018)
- Awarded the Key to the City of Buffalo for exceptional contributions to the community (2016)
- Recipient of the Buffalo News Citizens of the Year Award for public service (2014)
- Commendation from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for leadership in affordable housing initiatives (2010)
Timeline
Buffalo Common Council President
City of Buffalo
01.2012 - 12.2023
Ellicott District Council Member
City of Buffalo
01.2011 - 12.2023
At-Large Board Member
Buffalo Board of Education
01.1999 - 01.2002
Senior Pastor
True Bethel Baptist Church
01.1994 - Current
EEO Investigator/Counselor
United States Postal Service
01.1988 - 01.1997
Master of Organizational Leadership -
Medaille College
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice - Concentration in law enforcement and criminal investigations
State University of New York at Buffalo
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