Meet Dr. Deandre Poole
About Vice Chair Deandre Poole, Ph.D.
Dr. Deandre Poole is seeking re-election to the Port of Palm Beach. A lifelong resident of Palm Beach County, he was born in West Palm Beach, raised in the Pleasant City community, and graduated from Suncoast Community High School in 1999. He spent his high school and college years in Riviera Beach and is married to Dr. Stephanie O. Poole, a local veterinarian and graduate of Tuskegee University.
Dr. Poole is a University Instructor at Florida Atlantic University, where he has taught for nearly two decades. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in Communication from FAU and his Ph.D. in Communication and Culture from Howard University. He also serves as Pastor of First Church of God in Christ in West Palm Beach.
Since being elected to the Port of Palm Beach Commission in 2022, Dr. Poole has helped oversee a port with an annual economic impact exceeding $7 billion and supporting thousands of jobs throughout Palm Beach County. During his tenure, the Port secured a historic $36 million federal Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) grant to improve infrastructure, strengthen supply chain operations, and enhance the Port's long-term competitiveness. He has also supported responsible budgeting, strategic capital investments, and policies that have strengthened the Port's financial position while maintaining its commitment to operating without levying property taxes.
As Port Commissioner, Dr. Poole remains focused on economic growth, job creation, infrastructure modernization, and responsible stewardship to ensure the Port of Palm Beach continues to serve as a vital economic engine for Palm Beach County and the region.
A Record of Public Service
Throughout his career, Dr. Poole has been actively involved in numerous civic, educational, and community organizations. Some of his leadership experiences include service as:
- Vice Chair, Port of Palm Beach Commission
- Former Vice Chair, Palm Beach County Democratic Party
- Member, American Federation of Labor Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO)
- Member, Palm Beach Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Governing Board
- Chair, Transportation Disadvantaged Local Coordinating Board
- Interim President, Palm Beach County Democratic Black Caucus
- Former President, United Faculty of Florida–Florida Atlantic University Chapter
- Board Secretary, Scholastic Achievement Foundation of Palm Beach County
- Chair, Coalition for Black Student Achievement
- Former Chair, Criminal Justice Advisory Committee, City of West Palm Beach
- Former Member, Sales-Surtax Advisory Committee, City of West Palm Beach
- Mentor, educator, and advocate for youth
Commissioner Poole's priorities
Protecting the Port's Financial Strength
As your Commissioner, I will continue to ensure the Port remains financially strong without placing additional tax burdens on residents. Responsible budgeting, strategic investments, and sound fiscal management will remain top priorities.
Growing Jobs and Economic Opportunity
The Port of Palm Beach is a major economic engine for our region. I will continue working to attract new business, expand trade opportunities, support maritime industries, and create high-quality jobs for Palm Beach County residents.
Investing in Infrastructure and Modernization
To remain competitive, the Port must continue improving its facilities, technology, and transportation systems. I support strategic infrastructure investments that increase efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and position the Port for future growth.
Workforce Development and Education
As an educator, I understand the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders. I will continue supporting partnerships with schools, colleges, trade programs, and workforce training initiatives that connect residents to careers in the maritime industries.
Environmental Stewardship
Economic growth and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand. I support sustainable practices that protect our waterways, preserve natural resources, and ensure the Port remains a responsible community partner.