Preston A. Daniels is an American politician who became the first African-American mayor of Des Moines, Iowa.
Early life and education
Preston Daniels served four years in the United States Army where he achieved the rank of sergeant. Daniels received his Bachelor of Science in psychology and his Master of Science in health science, both from Drake University, before he began his career at Employee and Family Resources (EFR) in Des Moines.
Career
Prior to becoming mayor, he served in the Des Moines City Council from November 1991 until his election as mayor.
Daniels first became mayor upon his election in November 1997. In November 1999, he was elected to a four-year term. While serving as mayor, he hosted a local radio show. He did not seek another re-election and served out his term until January 2004. He was succeeded by Frank Cownie.
After leaving public office, he worked as the Program Director and Diversity Consultant for the Employee and Family Resource's Court and Community.
Daniels was appointed the director of the Iowa Department of Human Rights by Iowa governor Chet Culver in 2009 and served in that position until 2011.
References
African-American mayors in Iowa
African-American people in Iowa politics
Living people
Mayors of Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines
Iowa Democrats
Year of birth missing (living people) 21st-century African-American politicians 20th-century American politicians 21st-century American politicians