Contact

shepherdbn@ci.staunton.va.us
Call the Clerk of Council at 540.332.3810

Term

• January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2028
• First elected to Council in November 2024

About

Blake Shepherd made Staunton his home in 1990. He and his wife Carol, a native Virginian, raised their daughter Liz in Staunton. 

Blake loves that he’s able to bring his passion for the Queen City to Staunton City Council. With a background in sales, marketing, and client focused service, Blake brings a unique insight with creative problem-solving skills along with a solution-based collaboration approach to council. Blake actively networks with local and national organizations to generate revenue streams supporting student journalism. 

Blake is passionate and delighted to work with and advise JMU students, but his most fulfilling pursuit is mentoring JMU students, who have touched his life in an especially meaningful way. His career has yielded success in corporate roles and launching publications, as well as earning national, regional, and state awards for sales achievements and marketing across multiple industries.

Occupation

Blake is the PR Marketing Specialist for JMU’s award-winning student-run news media organization, The Breeze, and JMU’s School and Media Arts and Design (SMAD). Blake has been with JMU since 2011 and with SMAD in 2015.

Education

Southern Illinois University

Civic Engagement and Interests

• Supporter of several environmental groups including the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
• Volunteer for several local regional community associations and organizations.
• Former member of the Staunton City Schools Parent Teacher Association (PTA) as well as Staunton High School’s athletic booster club.
• Involved with and a member of numerous state and national professional organizations.

When he’s not involving himself in civic and community activities, Blake enjoys the beach, landscaping, woodworking, and being an avid basketball fan.