Running against an incumbent, Jimmy Cox wasn’t sure what to expect on Election Day in his bid for the Washington Schools Board of Trustees District 1 seat.
By a razor-thin margin, Cox defeated Amy Pictor by only 50 votes.
“I was happy with how I campaigned and didn’t have any regrets,” Cox said. “I was confident, but I wasn’t sure what to expect in the end.”
Cox attributes the narrow margin to the fact many Westfield residents were unfamiliar with him and his plans.
“It does seem like there are people on both sides, but I would say there is a slightly bigger appetite for some change,” he said.
Cox moved to Westfield in 2016. He has a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Purdue University. He earned a master’s in higher education and student affairs from Indiana University. Now, he works for the Purdue Alumni Association, where he oversees student development programs, recent graduate activities and manages alumni relations for fraternities and sororities. He serves as treasurer on the Westfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is active in many other areas throughout the community.
Cox’s term on the school board begins in January.
“I am most excited about the general process of learning about our educational community and working with others to keep moving forward so that we have the best school district around,” he said. “I put a lot of pressure on myself to do well by people, so I want to make sure that I make the best decisions possible for our community. I’m really looking forward to getting started and learning how to be a good board member.
“Whether you supported me or not, I look forward to working with everyone in our community to continue building a strong school system. Know that I will make myself available to anyone to listen and understand. I will strive to be open, honest and transparent.”
Cox is married to Megan. They attended Purdue and met during their senior year. They have two golden retrievers, Toby and Tucker. In his free time, Cox plays volleyball, cooks and barbecues at home and spends time with friends.
