New Orange County District 5 Commissioner Committed to Community Service and Quality of Life for All

Dr. Kelly Martinez Semrad, newly elected County Commissioner for Orange County, District 5, is a dynamic leader, UCF professor and dedicated community advocate. Her life’s work has been driven by a commitment to education, environmental stewardship and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. As a mother and neighbor, her roots in the community run deep, and her professional and personal accomplishments reflect her unwavering dedication to serving others.

We recently caught up with Dr. Semrad and talked about her journey, priorities and goals.

Why community service?

I believe people’s visions for their communities should matter more than corporate dollars driving political agendas. My commitment to public service comes from a place of deep conviction: every person, regardless of background, deserves to have their voice heard and their insights incorporated into government decisions. Too often, I’ve seen communities and nature pushed aside in favor of profits for special interests, and I want to change that.

What have you learned on your professional journey that has prepared you for this role?

Throughout my career as an internationally recognized researcher specializing in tourism economies to alleviate poverty, and as a higher education educator, I’ve learned it’s our duty to leave the world better than we found it. I’ve also realized that, in the realm of global tourism and economic development, money often speaks louder than words. To drive meaningful change in labor practices and advocate for economic justice, education is key. Additionally, to truly protect our natural resources, we must find ways to assign a value to nature that reflects its vital role in both our lives and the global economy.

What have you learned on your personal journey?

I’ve learned the importance of pausing and reflecting before responding, especially when I disagree with someone. I’ve also come to understand that community and environmental advocacy is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be both wins and losses, but persistence, resilience and unity within a community will ultimately lead to meaningful change.

What, and/or who, were your early inspirations in life?

My lifelong inspiration is my mother. As a single mom with limited means, she never failed to fill our home with love, resilience, and a deep respect for all people and the natural world. She dedicated 46 years of her life to public education as a teacher and actively engaged in local government and her teachers’ labor union, always advocating for equality and fairness. Her example continues to guide me, and I strive every day to live by the values my mom taught me.

How do you see your role as District 5 Commissioner?

As a duty and a commitment to my community, especially those most in need. I’m dedicated to advocating for what’s right, both for present and future generations. I’m fully aware of the sacrifices I make in spending less time with my children and family, but I do so to ensure they, and others, will be able to call Orange County home in the future via access to well-paying jobs, affordable housing, an efficient transit system, and the preservation of our natural resources and wildlife for future generations.

What do you anticipate being your biggest challenge?

The influence of special interests with deep pockets. No matter what we do at the local level, these outside forces often manipulate the system to override the will of Orange County voters. This will be an ongoing challenge I’ll need to address head-on.

From a big-picture standpoint, what do you hope to accomplish as District 5 Commissioner?

My work is always grounded in hope. My goal is to prioritize the needs of the people and the community, ensuring growth aligns with the vision of the residents and respects the will of voters. I aspire to bring about meaningful legislative reforms and policies that will lift our local economy, improve quality of life, promote equality and give a voice to those who currently go unheard.

What would you tell a young person who was thinking about getting into community service?

It’s not a journey for the faint of heart. It requires resilience, stamina and a deep commitment to sacrifice. You’ll face challenges, setbacks and sometimes resistance, but those moments are where growth happens. The road can be long and difficult, but the rewards are profound and lasting. Community service isn’t just about solving problems in the moment; it’s about creating lasting change that ripples through the future.

It’s an honor to serve, but it also comes with the responsibility of shaping a legacy. A legacy that not only addresses the needs of today but also provides future generations with a foundation to build upon. Ultimately, the goal is to create a path for others to follow — one that continues to uplift both people and the natural world.

To learn more about Commissioner Semrad and her District 5 priorities, go to Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad