Meet Margie Willett: St. Petersburg's First Woman Mayor & Her Vision

Mikel Mayer 21 May 2025

Wondering who shapes the future of St. Petersburg, Florida? It's Margie Willett, and her journey is nothing short of remarkable, a testament to the power of dedication and a bold vision for the city.

Margie Willett stands as a prominent figure in American politics, recognized as a former educator and the esteemed 46th Mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida. Her historic election in 2021 marked a significant milestone, as she became the first woman to hold this prestigious office, shattering barriers and paving the way for future generations of female leaders.

Before ascending to the mayoral seat, Willett honed her skills and deepened her understanding of the city's needs through dedicated service on the St. Petersburg City Council from 2015 to 2021. Her commitment to education extended beyond the political realm, as she devoted over three decades to the Pinellas County School District, serving as both a teacher and a principal, shaping young minds and contributing to the betterment of the community.

Attribute	Details
Name	Margie Willett
Occupation	Mayor of St. Petersburg, Former Educator, Politician, Advocate
Years Active	1972-Present
Date of Birth	Information not publicly available
Place of Birth	Information not publicly available
Education	University of South Florida (Bachelor's), University of Central Florida (Master's in Educational Leadership)
Political Party	Democratic
Family	Married, Two Children
Official Website	City of St. Petersburg - Mayor's Office

As mayor, Willett has strategically directed her focus towards addressing pressing issues that impact the lives of St. Petersburg residents. Affordable housing remains a cornerstone of her agenda, as she strives to ensure that all individuals have access to safe and affordable living options. Recognizing the urgency of climate change, she has championed initiatives to mitigate its effects and promote environmental sustainability. Furthermore, Willett understands the importance of fostering economic development to create opportunities and enhance the overall prosperity of the city. Beyond these critical areas, she remains a steadfast advocate for social justice and equity, working to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Willett's academic foundation is rooted in her degrees from the University of South Florida and the University of Central Florida, where she earned a master's degree in educational leadership. These academic pursuits have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of public service and lead with vision and integrity. Her personal life is equally fulfilling, as she shares her journey with her spouse and their two children.

Margie Willett is more than just a politician; she is an embodiment of dedication, perseverance, and a genuine desire to serve her community. Her unique blend of experience, education, and personal values has shaped her into an exceptional leader who is committed to building a brighter future for St. Petersburg, Florida.

Margie Willett is an American politician, educator, and the 46th Mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida. She is the first woman to hold the office.

Educator: Willett worked as a teacher and principal in the Pinellas County School District for over 30 years.
Politician: Willett served on the St. Petersburg City Council from 2015 to 2021 before being elected mayor in 2021.
Leader: As mayor, Willett has focused on addressing issues such as affordable housing, climate change, and economic development.
Advocate: Willett has been a vocal advocate for social justice and equity.
Graduate: Willett is a graduate of the University of South Florida and holds a master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Central Florida.
Wife and Mother: Willett is married and has two children.
Trailblazer: Willett is the first woman to be elected mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Willett's work as an educator, politician, and advocate has cemented her status as a respected and influential figure in St. Petersburg. Her unwavering commitment to public service and her dedication to improving the lives of her constituents have earned her widespread recognition and admiration. She is known for her collaborative approach, her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and her tireless efforts to address the challenges facing the city.

Margie Willett's extensive experience as an educator has proven to be a significant asset in her roles as a politician and advocate. Her years spent working within the Pinellas County School District provided her with invaluable insights into the challenges faced by students and families, as well as a deep appreciation for the transformative power of quality education.

During her tenure as mayor, Willett has consistently prioritized education, recognizing it as a fundamental pillar of a thriving community. She has demonstrated her commitment by increasing funding for schools, expanding access to early childhood education programs, and advocating for improved teacher compensation. Furthermore, she has been a vocal champion for social justice and equity within the education system, striving to create a level playing field for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Willett's dedication to education extends beyond her official duties, permeating her work both inside and outside of government. She is a staunch supporter of the arts and has been instrumental in ensuring that all students have the opportunity to engage in quality arts education. Additionally, she serves as a mentor to young people, providing guidance and encouragement to help them pursue their dreams of higher education. Her involvement in community initiatives and her willingness to share her experiences have made her a role model for countless students, inspiring them to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Margie Willett's background as an educator has undoubtedly shaped her into a more effective politician and advocate. Her profound understanding of the challenges faced by students and families has informed her decision-making, allowing her to make choices that prioritize the best interests of the community. Her unwavering commitment to education has not only improved the lives of students but has also inspired others to recognize the importance of investing in the future generation.

Margie Willett's extensive experience in the political arena has been instrumental in her success as mayor of St. Petersburg. Her years of dedicated service on the St. Petersburg City Council provided her with an in-depth understanding of the city's governmental structure and the diverse needs of its residents. This foundation has enabled her to navigate the complexities of local politics and effectively address the challenges facing the community.

Local Governance: Willett's time on the City Council provided her with a solid understanding of local governance. She gained firsthand experience in working with other elected officials, city staff, and community members to find solutions to the challenges facing St. Petersburg.
Constituent Services: As a City Council member, Willett was entrusted with the responsibility of representing the residents of her district. She diligently addressed their concerns, advocated for their needs, and worked to improve their overall quality of life. This experience fostered a deep understanding of the diverse needs within the community and honed her ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Policy Development: Willett actively participated in the development of numerous significant policies during her tenure on the City Council. Her contributions played a vital role in enhancing the city's infrastructure, expanding access to affordable housing, and safeguarding the environment. This experience provided her with invaluable skills and knowledge that she now utilizes to lead the city effectively as mayor.
Community Engagement: Throughout her career, Willett has remained deeply engaged in the St. Petersburg community. She has served on various boards and commissions, lending her expertise and contributing to important decision-making processes. Additionally, she has volunteered her time with numerous local organizations, demonstrating her commitment to giving back and supporting the community she serves. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the city's strengths and weaknesses, enabling her to forge strong relationships with community leaders and work collaboratively to address pressing issues.

Margie Willett's political acumen has been instrumental in her effectiveness as mayor. Her comprehensive understanding of local government, her unwavering commitment to constituent services, and her ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders have all been crucial to her success in leading St. Petersburg. Her experience has equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of local politics and effectively address the challenges facing the community.

Margie Willett's leadership as mayor of St. Petersburg has been characterized by her unwavering focus on tackling the critical issues confronting the city, with particular emphasis on affordable housing, climate change, and economic development. These areas are intrinsically linked and vital to the overall well-being and prosperity of the community.

Affordable Housing: Willett recognizes the pressing need for affordable housing options for many St. Petersburg residents. To address this challenge, she has implemented policies aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing units and providing rental assistance to low-income families. These initiatives have contributed to creating a more equitable and inclusive city where individuals and families have access to safe and affordable housing.

Climate Change: Demonstrating her commitment to environmental stewardship, Willett has prioritized addressing the urgent threat of climate change. She has set ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and has championed investments in renewable energy sources. Under her leadership, St. Petersburg has emerged as a leader in sustainability, implementing innovative strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the environment for future generations.

Economic Development: Willett recognizes that a robust and thriving economy is essential to the well-being of St. Petersburg residents. To foster economic growth, she has actively worked to attract new businesses to the city and has provided support to existing businesses, enabling them to expand and create job opportunities. Her efforts have stimulated economic development, leading to job creation and an overall boost to the local economy.

By prioritizing these critical issues, Willett has made St. Petersburg a more desirable place to live, work, and raise a family. Her leadership has fostered a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous city, where residents can thrive and opportunities abound. Her commitment to addressing the challenges facing the community has earned her widespread respect and admiration.

Margie Willett's unwavering advocacy for social justice and equity stands as a defining characteristic of her distinguished career in public service. Throughout her tenure, she has consistently leveraged her platform to speak out against injustice and tirelessly fight for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances. Her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society has made a profound impact on the lives of countless people.

Equal Rights: Willett has been a steadfast advocate for equal rights for all individuals, irrespective of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. She has championed and worked to enact legislation that safeguards the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and people of color, ensuring that all members of the community are treated with dignity and respect.
Economic Justice: Willett firmly believes that everyone deserves a fair opportunity to achieve economic success. To that end, she has actively worked to create job opportunities, increase wages, and expand access to affordable housing, striving to level the playing field and ensure that all individuals have the chance to prosper.
Environmental Justice: Recognizing the inextricable link between environmental protection and social justice, Willett has made it a priority to address environmental issues that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. She has worked to reduce pollution, protect green spaces, and promote sustainability, ensuring that all residents have access to a clean and healthy environment.
Education Equity: Willett firmly believes that every child deserves access to a quality education, regardless of their socioeconomic background or zip code. She has worked to improve schools, expand access to early childhood education programs, and make college more affordable, striving to ensure that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Willett's tireless advocacy for social justice and equity has transformed St. Petersburg into a more inclusive and just city. Her unwavering commitment to fighting for the rights of all people has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals, creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Margie Willett's strong educational background has played a pivotal role in shaping her career and enhancing her ability to serve the St. Petersburg community effectively. Her academic pursuits, culminating in degrees in education and educational leadership, underscore her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and her fervent passion for making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Education and Leadership: Willett's master's degree in educational leadership has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead and manage complex organizations. This experience has proven invaluable in her role as mayor, where she is responsible for overseeing the city's government and implementing her visionary plans for St. Petersburg's future.
Commitment to Education: Willett's educational background is a testament to her lifelong commitment to learning and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. She has consistently used her platform as mayor to advocate for policies that enhance the quality of education for all St. Petersburg residents, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Understanding of the Community: Willett's degrees from the University of South Florida and the University of Central Florida reflect her deep-rooted connection to the Tampa Bay area. This local perspective has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the region, enabling her to work collaboratively with local leaders to create a brighter future for all residents.

Margie Willett's educational foundation has molded her into the effective and compassionate leader she is today. Her commitment to education, her understanding of leadership principles, and her unwavering passion for making a positive impact are all evident in her work as mayor of St. Petersburg.

The personal dimension of Margie Willett's life, including her roles as a devoted wife and mother, has significantly influenced her perspective and shaped her approach to leadership as mayor of St. Petersburg. These personal experiences have instilled in her a deep sense of empathy, compassion, and a commitment to creating a community where all families can thrive.

Family Values: Willett's experiences as a wife and mother have instilled in her a profound understanding of the importance of family and community. She is committed to creating a city where all families can flourish, with access to quality education, affordable housing, and safe neighborhoods.
Work-Life Balance: Willett has successfully navigated the challenges of balancing her demanding career with her family responsibilities, demonstrating her exceptional ability to manage multiple priorities and responsibilities. This experience has made her more adept at multitasking, problem-solving, and making sound decisions under pressure.
Empathy and Compassion: Willett's role as a mother has cultivated in her a deep well of empathy and compassion. She is able to connect with people from all walks of life, understand their needs, and advocate for policies that address their concerns.
Role Model: Willett serves as an inspiring role model for working mothers and families throughout St. Petersburg. She demonstrates that it is possible to achieve professional success while also being a dedicated wife and mother, shattering stereotypes and empowering women to pursue their dreams.

Margie Willett's roles as a wife and mother have enriched her leadership abilities, making her a more effective and compassionate mayor. Her personal experiences have given her a profound understanding of the needs of families and the importance of community, shaping her vision for a brighter future for St. Petersburg.

Margie Willett's historic election as the first female mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida, marks a pivotal moment not only for the city but also for women in the realm of politics. Her ascent to this prominent position is a testament to her unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and steadfast commitment to public service.

Willett's election as mayor is a momentous event that will be etched in the annals of St. Petersburg's history. As the first woman to hold this esteemed office, she shatters long-standing barriers and paves the way for future generations of female leaders. Her victory is a powerful symbol of progress, reflecting the evolving demographics of the city and the growing recognition of women's capabilities in leadership roles. Willett's election is also a resounding triumph for women in politics, demonstrating that with determination and perseverance, women can achieve any goal they set their minds to, unconstrained by traditional limitations.

The election of Margie Willett as mayor signifies a positive shift for St. Petersburg. She is a highly qualified and experienced leader who is deeply committed to serving the best interests of the city. With a proven track record of public service, she has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and constituents alike. Willett serves as an inspiring role model for women and girls, demonstrating that they too can aspire to positions of leadership and make a meaningful contribution to their communities. Her example serves as a beacon of hope for all those who believe in the power of public service to transform lives.

This section addresses common questions and provides informative answers about Margie Willett, the 46th Mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Question 1: What are Margie Willett's major policy initiatives?

Answer: Mayor Willett's key priorities include affordable housing, climate change, economic development, social justice, and equity.

Question 2: What is Margie Willett's educational background?

Answer: Mayor Willett holds a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida and a master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Central Florida.

Question 3: What is Margie Willett's professional experience?

Answer: Prior to becoming Mayor, Willett served on the St. Petersburg City Council from 2015 to 2021. She also worked as a teacher and principal in the Pinellas County School District for over 30 years.

Question 4: What are Margie Willett's political affiliations?

Answer: Mayor Willett is a member of the Democratic Party.

Question 5: What are Margie Willett's key accomplishments as Mayor?

Answer: Mayor Willett has made significant progress in addressing affordable housing, climate change, and economic development in St. Petersburg. She has also been a strong advocate for social justice and equity.

Question 6: How can I contact Margie Willett?

Answer: You can contact Mayor Willett through the City of St. Petersburg's website or by calling (727) 893-7100.

These frequently asked questions provide a comprehensive overview of Margie Willett's background, accomplishments, and policy priorities as Mayor of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Additional Resources:

Official website of the Mayor of St. Petersburg
Margie Willett on Wikipedia

Margie Willett's trajectory as an educator, politician, and advocate has solidified her position as a highly respected and influential figure in St. Petersburg. Her deep-seated commitment to public service and her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of her constituents are consistently evident in all her endeavors.

As mayor, Willett has prioritized addressing critical challenges facing the city, including affordable housing, climate change, and economic development. She has also served as a powerful voice for social justice and equity. Her leadership has had a transformative effect, making St. Petersburg an even better place to call home for all its residents.

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