Regina Clay Shares Vision for District 4 During Crimson & Cream Event

With a room filled with ardent supporters, Howard County Council candidate Regina Clay laid out a deeply personal and forward-looking vision for District 4 during her Dec. 2 Crimson & Cream event.

“My name is Regina Clay, and I’m running for Howard County Council, District 4 — so every family has the chance to put down roots, feel safe, and thrive,” she told a clapping audience.

Clay, a lifelong Howard County resident with more than 25 years of community leadership, opened the night by grounding her candidacy in her family’s history — a legacy that began in the tobacco fields of North Carolina, where her grandparents were Black landowners.

The event highlighted the experiences that shaped her commitment to public service: a mother who became a respected educator and champion for women; a father who rose from correctional officer to U.S. Parole Commissioner; and her own journey growing up in District 4 schools and raising her family in the same community.

Supporters in the audience lauded her commitment to run for the District 4 seat.

“We are very proud of you, and we are claiming that you are going to win this seat,” said Tanya Clayton, drawing cheers from the crowd. Clayton was among Clay’s dedicated volunteers who organized the Crimson & Cream event.

Karen Willis, Clay’s college classmate, offered a heartfelt reflection on Clay’s character.

“She has always been involved in the community since I’ve known her. She also supports many causes. Using the letters in Clay’s first name, Willis attributed positive character traits to her friend.

“R – resilient, reliable, responsive. E – engaged in the community and effective. G – generous and gracious. I – impactful and innovative. N – nurturing and neighborly. A – authentic, accountable, and accessible. That is who Regina Clay is,” Willis said to thunderous applause.

Clay used the evening to speak candidly about the challenges she sees across District 4 — rising housing costs, transportation barriers, gaps in opportunity — and why she felt called to run. She shared stories of advocating for her children in school, supporting families through her work as a pastor and nonprofit leader, and her determination to ensure seniors can age in place with dignity.

“Leadership starts with listening,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to stable housing, safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and an inclusive local economy. District 4 shaped me into who I am today. Now I’m stepping forward to serve, to fight for families, and to ensure that every neighbor has the chance to thrive.”

To learn more about Regina Clay and her run for Howard County Council, District 4, visit her website: https://reginaclayforhoward.co...