Erika Sugarmon

As a citizen who has lived, worked, raised a family, and received education in Shelby county for decades, Erika Sugarmon is a blend of credibility, passion, and sincerity. A mother of one daughter, Selena, two sons, Greg and Zack, and two family dogs, GG and Skyler, she is proud to continue her crusade for better jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and a renewable future with your help. 

A thought leader and paradigm for building relationships and establishing bonds through civic engagement, currently she serves 5 community organizations including Women in Leadership Leaning of Wisdom (WILLOW- Board Member), Tennessee-National Women’s Political Caucus (West TN Representative), Shelby County Democratic Party (Executive Committee and Primary Board), Youth Villages (Council Chair and Respite and Foster Parent), Memphis-Shelby County Education Association High School (Director, Associate Representative, and Political Action Committee Board).

An educator in the Shelby County school district for more than two decades, she’s spent many years traversing District 12 listening to your concerns and sharing her vision. Now, she’s ready to take action as District 12’s County Commissioner. Reflecting on being challenged at an early age by her father, the late Judge Russell Sugarmon, who championed social justice and equity for underserved communities, Erika knows that entering public service as an elected official is the most effective and impactful way to voice the causes that the people of District 12 hold dear and that she has been fighting for. Her mother, the late Dr. Miriam DeCosta-Willis, instilled in her the values of family, education, and community service. 

Remaining “teachable” through action, she is currently a Doctoral Candidate for a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership at the University of Memphis. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration, Master in Art & Teaching, and a Master in Public Administration from the university, as well.

What I Stand For!

Shelby County residents send more tax dollars to the State than any other county in Tennessee. Shelby County is not supported by the State commensurate with the amount of money it generates so we keep sending the State more money and getting fewer services in return.

As a result, our education system is failing our children, roads and bridges are cracking and crumbling, and crime remains at a historic high.

I am ready lead the charge to demand Shelby County's fair share from Capitol Hill focusing crime, education, and infrastructure. 

• THEN we can effectively fight crime and stop the spread of gun violence
• THEN we can create an effective educational system that prepares our youth to become civic-minded, socially responsive, and financially independent young adults
• THEN we can fix our roads and bridges, improve our sewer and water systems, invest in broadband, and create a light rail system

This will lead to bringing new businesses and supporting small businesses to grow and thrive. My guidance will bring more revenue to our communities and generate additional prosperity for the citizens of Shelby county.

Like my parents, Judge Russell Sugarmon and Dr. Miriam DeCosta Willis, I have the passion to make this happen. I will fight to make Shelby County better. Invest your vote in me, Erika Sugarmon, for County Commission District 12.