Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Jessica Pepple For City Councilor At-Large

WORCESTER, MA — The municipal election is heating up in Worcester, and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Worcester Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Jessica Pepple is running for a City Councilor at-large seat in Worcester.

Campaign website

https://jessicapepple4worcester.org/

Age

38

Family

I’m a proud mom to a kindergartener who inspires my work every day. Family is at the heart of why I fight for strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and a city where every child and family can thrive.

Position sought

City Councilor At-Large, Worcester

What is your party affiliation?

Nonpartisan municipal election; I’m running as a community-centered leader.

Educational background

I attended Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL. I went on to earn my MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management, and later completed my Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at Boston University.

Are you originally from Worcester?

I am not originally from Worcester, but I have proudly called this city home for 7 years. In that time, I’ve built strong roots through my work, service, and family, and I am deeply committed to Worcester’s future.

What is your occupation?

I am an equity strategist working with four school districts, one nonprofit, and a house of worship to advance diversity, belonging, and equity. I also serve as the CEO and Founder of The Reframe Institute, a nonprofit focused on healing and leadership, and Equitas Consulting & Management, which provides equity-focused training and organizational support.

Have you previously or currently been elected to an office?

This is my first run for public office.

Why are you running for the Councilor at-large seat?

I’m running because Worcester is at a turning point. Families are struggling with housing, schools, and affordability. I bring the experience, vision, and courage to make city government more inclusive, accountable, and forward-moving.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is housing—both affordability and stability. I will champion policies that expand affordable housing, prevent displacement, and create pathways to homeownership so that Worcester remains a place where families can put down roots.

What sets you apart from other candidates seeking this position?

I bring a unique combination of grassroots leadership, professional expertise in equity and systems change, and deep community ties. I’ve built programs, led tough conversations, and delivered results. I’m not just listening—I know how to turn voices into action and policy.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Along with housing, I’m focused on education, public safety and trust, health equity, economic opportunity, and inclusive growth. My campaign is about building a city where every resident feels they belong and can see themselves in Worcester’s future.

How does your experience prepare you for success in this position?

I’ve led organizational change, managed budgets, and built partnerships across sectors. As a Chief Officer, consultant, and nonprofit founder, I know how to align people, processes, and systems to get results. My lived and professional experience makes me ready to deliver for Worcester.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself?

I believe Worcester is strongest when we come together across our differences. I’m guided by the principle of building bridges, not walls. I’m running not just to hold a seat, but to help build a city where every resident feels heard, valued, and seen.

See Other Candidate Profiles:

• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Cayden Davis For City Councilor At-Large
  
• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Keith Linhares For District 1 City Councilor
• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Jose Rivera For District 5 City Councilor
• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Sue Mailman For School Committee At-Large
• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Owura Sarkodieh For Mayor, City Councilor At-Large
• Worcester Patch Candidate Profile: Ted Kostas For District 4 City Councilor