John Taylor
Chapman

John Taylor Chapman, a dedicated father, devoted husband, and fourth-generation Alexandrian, has woven a rich tapestry of service and advocacy throughout his life. Growing up in the North Old Town and Quaker Hill public housing communities, John developed a profound passion for uplifting the underrepresented and underserved. As the youngest President of the Alexandria Branch of the NAACP, he championed causes close to his heart, advocating tirelessly for affordable housing and public safety.

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His commitment to education led him to become a career educator, where he tirelessly pursued opportunities to improve the lives of Alexandria's residents. Serving on the Alexandria City Public School Board’s Budget Advisory Committee, John ensured that all students had equitable access to resources, prioritizing their success above all else.

Beyond his educational endeavors, John is the proud owner and founder of the Manumission Tour Company, where he passionately shares Alexandria’s rich heritage through curated heritage tours. A staunch advocate for historic preservation, John takes pride in connecting residents and tourists alike with the city’s vibrant past.

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In addition to his community involvement, John has held multiple leadership roles, including serving as a fourth-term member of the City Council and on various local and regional boards. His extensive service includes positions on the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, the Alexandria Redevelopment & Housing Authority (ARHA) Task Force, and the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) Board of Directors, among others.

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John's commitment to service has garnered him numerous awards and recognitions, including "Top 10 under 40" from the Virginia Leadership Institute and a Men of Courage Lifetime Achievement Award.

With the birth of his son, John II, in February 2020, John's dedication to creating a prosperous, safe, and culturally diverse city has only intensified. He envisions a future where his son proudly carries on the Chapman legacy as the fifth generation to call Alexandria home. As John continues to work alongside local businesses to revitalize the economy, his unwavering commitment to building a brighter future for Alexandria remains steadfast.