Grady Bussey: A Lifelong Commitment to Community and Service

A proud North Carolinian by heart and by home, Grady Bussey has deep roots in the community he serves. Originally from Long Island, New York, Grady has spent the majority of his life in North Carolina, where he and his wife Wanda have raised three children and built a life centered on service, connection, and care for others. Known for his natural ability to connect with people, Grady has devoted himself to uplifting communities through compassionate engagement and steadfast leadership.

Grady's passion for community and the well-being of others has guided every chapter of his life. His journey in North Carolina began as a standout track star, earning a scholarship to Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh. While excelling in athletics, he also committed himself to service—laying the foundation for a lifelong mission of civic engagement.

After graduating, Grady transitioned into the real estate industry, working as a realtor and mortgage company owner from 1996 to 2007. In 2008, he began his public service career with the City of Raleigh’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department. There, he played a pivotal role in building inclusive programming for all ages, championing outreach efforts, and advocating for equity regardless of socioeconomic background.

Grady was instrumental in launching athletics programs, special events, and outreach initiatives at key community hubs, including the Sgt. Courtney T. Johnson Community Center, John P. “Top” Greene Community Center, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park, and John Chavis Memorial Park.

He also contributed to the development of the Raleigh Police Department’s Community Policing Program and worked in the City’s Housing Department, where he strongly supported initiatives to end homelessness in Wake County. Further amplifying unheard voices, he created Neighborhood Navigators, a video series celebrating the pride and unique stories of Raleigh’s diverse neighborhoods.

Today, Grady serves in the City of Raleigh’s Community Engagement Department, where he leads the Citizens Leadership Academy—empowering residents to become informed, effective community leaders. He has registered hundreds of voters and organized numerous Early Voter Marches to promote civic participation.

Grady’s dedication to public service extends far beyond his professional roles. He is Chair of the Town of Knightdale Citizens Advisory Board, a member of the Knightdale Rotary Club, and a member of the Wake County Public School System’s Triple-A Team (Advisory and Advocacy Alliance). He also serves as Chair of Knightdale Precinct 17-16 and as a Wake County Democratic Party Delegate.

Additionally, Grady is Vice Chair of the City of Raleigh Museum and Chair Emeritus of the African American Cultural Festival of Raleigh and Wake County. He regularly appears as a community commentator on WRAL, ABC11, and CBS-17, sharing thoughtful insights on local and regional issues.

With an unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy, Grady Bussey continues to be a driving force for positive change across Knightdale, Wake County, and beyond.