Environmental Advocate Abrilla O. Robinson Announces Candidacy for Smithfield Town Council

 

Email: peopleforabrilla@gmail.com

 

Smithfield, NC — Accomplished environmental industry leader, business administrator, and long-time community advocate Abrilla O. Robinson has officially announced her candidacy for the Smithfield Town Council in the upcoming municipal election. She will file her intent with the Johnston County Board of Elections on Monday, July 7, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.

 

With decades of experience in environmental justice, community organizing, and sustainable development, Robinson brings a powerful voice and proven leadership to the race. Her platform emphasizes environmental stewardship, equitable infrastructure planning, and cultural inclusion.

 

“Smithfield deserves leadership that values its people, protects its resources, and plans boldly for the future,” said Robinson. “I’m running to bring innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to our town.”

 

As Director of Minorities in Recycling and Environmental Management (MREM), Robinson has earned national recognition for her work in recycling policy, public housing programs, and community outreach. Her work has empowered students, entrepreneurs, and underserved populations to participate in environmental action and economic opportunity.

 

Robinson’s extensive leadership experience includes:

- Serving as the first African American woman on the National Recycling Coalition’s Board of Directors (1990–1994)

- Founding and managing MREM, a nonprofit organization supporting recycling-based businesses and workforce development

- Chairing the NRC’s Minorities in Recycling Council, where she recruited leaders from the U.S. military, federal agencies, and Fortune 500 companies

- Leading SunShares, a Durham-based nonprofit, as Executive Director (1997–2000)

 

Her accolades include the North Carolina Recycling Association’s Outstanding Recycling Industry Award and the Take Pride in America Award (1992).

 

A native of Michigan, Robinson studied advertising at the Center for Creative Arts and Studies in Detroit, and Highland Park College. She currently resides in Smithfield, North Carolina, where she continues her work to make environmental innovation accessible to all.

 

Robinson invites supporters to join her at the Johnston County Board of Elections on Monday, July 7th at 12:00 p.m. as she files her candidacy.

 

For media inquiries or to get involved with the campaign, please contact:

Abrilla O. Robinson

 peopleforabrilla@gmail.com

Call: 919.351.9335