Endorsement from George Thompson
“I strongly encourage the people of Rochester to support Dr. Walé Elegbede for Mayor. I truly believe he has the vision, character, experience, and heart to help lead Rochester forward.”
It is my honor to offer my full endorsement and support for Dr. Walé Elegbede for Mayor of Rochester.
As someone who has lived in and observed this community for 56+ years, I have had the opportunity to witness many leaders come and go. Very few have demonstrated the level of consistent level of leadership, service, compassion, integrity, and action that Walé Elegbede has shown to the people of Rochester. I have observed him work effectively with all people to achieve, mutually beneficial opportunities for all people.
I have personally watched Walé lead during some of the most difficult and important moments our community has faced. He has never been afraid to step forward when leadership was needed. Whether advocating for fairness, bringing people together across differences, supporting vulnerable families, or helping the community navigate challenging conversations, Walé has consistently led with courage, humility, and respect for all people.
What many people may not always see is the tremendous amount of work Walé does behind the scenes to build relationships, form strategic coalitions, and bring people together around issues that benefit the Rochester community. I have personally witnessed him work quietly and tirelessly across organizations, neighborhoods, and institutions to create partnerships, reduce division, and move important initiatives forward. He understands that real leadership is not about seeking attention – it is about doing the work necessary to strengthen the community.
What stands out most to me is that his leadership is not performative –it is genuine. He listens to people. He shows up. He is smart, strategic, and builds innovative programs. He understands that leadership is about service, accountability, and earning trust.
As President of the Rochester Branch of the NAACP, Walé has helped strengthen it to become one of the most active and respected branches in the state. He has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for young people, strengthen partnerships across Rochester, and ensure that every resident feels seen, valued, and heard. His leadership with initiatives like RISE for Youth demonstrates his commitment to investing in the next generation and building a stronger future for our city.
In addition to his community leadership, Walé brings exceptional executive and organizational experience. He has successfully led large and complex initiatives in healthcare, business, education, and organizational transformation. Rochester needs a mayor who not only cares deeply about people, but who also understands how to manage complexity, build collaboration, and deliver real results. Walé has already proven he can do that at the highest levels.
I also appreciate that Walé leads with both strength and empathy. In a time when division and distrust have impacted so many communities, Rochester needs a leader who can unite people while still standing firmly for justice, dignity, and accountability. I believe Walé Elegbede is that leader.
I strongly encourage the people of Rochester to support Dr. Walé Elegbede for Mayor. I truly believe he has the vision, character, experience, and heart to help lead Rochester forward.
Sincerely,
George Thompson
