Taylor Newton is running for Hickory City Council in Ward 5 because she believes thoughtful, community-centered leadership can help shape the city’s next chapter. As a professor, she has built her career on navigating uncertainties through careful research and deep listening—skills she considers essential for effective public service. As a parent with children in Hickory’s public schools, she is personally invested in creating a future that works for all of Hickory’s families.

She has led community education initiatives at Lenoir-Rhyne University and currently serves as chair of the City of Hickory's University City Commission. Alongside her family, she runs a small apiary called Bearded Bee, selling honey to support local nonprofit organizations. Her volunteer work with the Hickory Soup Kitchen and with Catawba County DSS has given her firsthand insight into a fundamental truth: safe, affordable housing is essential for strong communities. 

Taylor aims to bring her professional skills, local experience, and hands-on service to the table—to help ensure opportunity and dignity are within reach for everyone who calls Hickory home.