Justin Rice: Community Leader Profile
Justin Rice represents a growing number of young leaders who have taken up the mantle of being the change they would like to see in the Waco community. Working with numerous boards and organizations such as the Waco NAACP, Waco Young Professionals of Color, Central Texas African-American Chamber of Commerce, and the local chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Justin is known for his analytical thinking and steadfast dedication towards causes that advance Cultural Wealth. Justin is a proud alumnus of Baylor University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science.
Justin’s family first arrived in Waco 15 years ago when his father took on the task of opening the Financial Services Center at the Doris Miller VA Medical Center. Like his parents, Justin believes in the value of community service. Throughout his undergrad years at Baylor, Justin became involved in numerous activities hoping to find a field he would be passionate about. Ultimately, he gained the belief that local government and non-profits are true servants of the people and can have the most impact on their communities. This desire to be a servant leader is what led Justin to eventually pursuing a Masters of Public Administration and the work he currently does with the United Way.
When asking Justin about what he loves the most about Waco, he shared the following. “In Waco, I can see the small impacts I am making on my community. It is also nice to be in a place where it is just on the edge of “everybody knows everybody.” That sense of community and neighborly spirit is something to be admired. That’s evident in the many resources available for our special needs’ population. As a sibling of an autistic brother, that has been very impactful for my family, especially coming from outside of the community.”
When Justin is not serving his family and community, you can find him building computers, serving as a true testament to his desire to improve complex systems that, when made better, can benefit all who interact with them. The future is in great hands knowing the foundation of work being built by young leaders such as Justin, we are honored to highlight him for all that he does as a Solid Gold Neighbor.