Biography of Serving and Defeating the Odds

Senator Connie Stokes was born and raised in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward, which was, at the time, one of the City's most economically deprived and challenged communities. Having never known her father and abandoned by her mother at the age of six, Connie was raised by her elderly great-grandmother. Her childhood experiences and strong spiritual beliefs forced her into an early appreciation of the value of working hard, fighting against incredible odds and learning to call and depend upon a higher power to help her accomplish her goals.

State Senator Connie Stokes was first elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1994. Since that time, the people have re-elected her to five consecutive terms.

In the Georgia Senate, she continues to be a strong voice for decent and affordable housing for everyone. She is an advocate for those individuals who are trying to realize the “American Dream” of home ownership. She previously served as chair of the Senate’s Health and Human Services Committee, advocating for quality, affordable healthcare accessible to all Georgians.

Former Governor Roy Barnes called upon Senator Stokes to serve as a Senate Floor Leader where she worked on many critical issues, including health care, education reform, and tax reduction. Senator Stokes has sponsored and/or co-sponsored an impressive and lengthy list of substantive legislation that is making a difference in the lives of the people of Georgia.

Senator Stokes serves as a member of numerous organizations including, Women’s Resource Center to End Violence, International Women’s Forum, The Women’s Council Board of Governors, and The Coalition of 100 Black Women, where she served on the National Board. She is currently on the National Board of the Congress of Black Women.

Connie Stokes has participated in numerous leadership programs including Leadership Atlanta, Leadership DeKalb, Leadership Rockdale, and the Regional Leadership Institute. Senator Stokes is a “Fleming Fellow” with the Center for Policy Alternatives (CPA), and a “Toll Fellow” with the Council of State Government. Senator Stokes is the recipient of numerous awards, and she was inducted into the acclaimed YWCA’s 2003 Academy of Women Achievers.

She is an accomplished businesswoman who has celebrated years of success in the real estate industry. Connie Stokes has been very active in the National Association of Realtors and National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Senator Stokes is host and producer of “DeKalb Today,” a weekly television program in its eighth year about “people, places, events, and activities to enhance your quality of life.” Senator Stokes is also a highly sought-after public speaker, and participates in various workshops and panel discussions.

Connie Stokes is a graduate of David T. Howard High School in Atlanta. She received an Associate’s Degree from the Art Institute of Atlanta. She also graduated from the prestigious Georgia State University School of Business where she received a B.B.A degree in marketing. She is married to Dr. James A. Stokes and they have three adult sons. They reside in Lithonia, and are members of St. Philip AME Church.