Theresa Coates Ellis: Education and community are key

As a candidate for City Council, Theresa Coates Ellis is all about bringing a new perspective to Manassas by looking at what she calls “the bigger picture.” For Ellis, this bigger picture includes her passions: education and community involvement.

Investing in local youth

For more than 25 years, Ellis has worked with children of all ages. A single mother, then a remarried mom raising a blended family of seven children, Ellis earned her college degree attending George Mason University (GMU) full time while building her business. Later, with her youngest off to college, she became interested in working with kids in an educational setting again. Touring the school her children attended, she realized there was a perception that did not match the positive interactions she was having there. Concerned the “good word” was not getting out, she came up with a plan.

Ellis worked to get the children networking. Calling them ambassadors for the community, Ellis founded sponsored the Community Connection Network, CCN Manassas, the Manassas City Public School (MCPS) High School Media Team in May 2015. What started as a diverse group of four students serving as a public relations team for the school soon branched out to 16 students covering community events.

The team began capturing the spirit of the community through video, photos, and stories, representing Osbourn High School, service organizations, historical sites, or events happening in Manassas.

At one point, Ellis hired the club’s original president part-time to write blogs and record videos. When he had to interview at George Mason University (GMU) for a scholarship, Ellis advised him, explaining what to wear and what to do, as well as what body language to demonstrate. After the interview, he told her it went well. GMU liked the fact that he had helped start a club, that he had created something for the school and community. That student ended up getting a full, four-year scholarship.

“I’m really proud of him,” Ellis said. “All the kids who graduated did really well.”

But, Ellis, who also serves on the advisory committee for the Manassas school system’s Career and Technical Education program, said, “Some kids come out of high school and will be going into technology and vocational careers, not necessarily college. They may have the opportunity to own a business. It’s important to teach vocational skills like these, too, as well as entrepreneurial skills. To do this, the community needs to be involved. You have to have businesses and community leaders reaching out to students.”

Perception is reality

Ellis can see the potential of a community-driven public image campaign for the City of Manassas. If elected, she would like to introduce a Public Image Committee that would not just be “PR” for Manassas – it would educate those beyond Manassas about the community. While Ellis is proud of the city’s historic roots, she feels the city needs coverage beyond that aspect. Ellis says that attracting new businesses and more community investment can come from covering the city’s modern strengths as well.

Ellis said she has the plan and the experience to take on the task of promoting a positive image for Manassas. As founder and owner of Tackle Management Corp., a company providing management and public relations services to businesses and organizations in Manassas, she has earned the reputation of being experienced and solution-oriented. “When you’re in business, you have to be a problem solver,” she said.

What’s more, Ellis said she knows the business aspect of running successful organizations. Working in leadership capacities with Manassas Regional Airport Commission, as President of the Bull Run Rotary Club, the Inter-Service Club Council of Greater Manassas, the MCPS Education Foundation Marketing Committee, and Cobblestone Business Center gives her insight into the local economy, which is the backbone of the community.

Not a politician

Ellis planned her candidacy for years before throwing her hat in the ring. “I’m not a politician,” she noted, but she had “serious concerns” and thought about how to fill the need. Ellis has found she really enjoys talking with the community. “I love it. I love getting out and talking to people and hearing all the issues.”

She says the community is receiving her well on the campaign trail. Residents remark consistently about her door-to-door campaign style, adding that she is the first candidate that has come to their door. Ellis sees this as encouraging and hopes it also encourages more community involvement. “I believe the more people you have invested in the community, it’s only going to get better. People have a pride and ownership in their community.”

Ellis understands being invested in her community and believes this will make her an excellent city councilperson. “When you’re really involved in the community, you see things differently. I’m open minded. And I think that makes a difference.”

For more information on Theresa Coates Ellis, visit her website, TheresaCoatesEllis.com.