Bishop McNeill, 39, of Fayetteville, is a political organizer.
He was nominated for 40 Under 40 because "I first met Bishop at the height of the Black Lives Matter demonstrations in Fayetteville, circa summer 2020," nominator Mario Benavente writes. "It was obvious to anyone who worked with Bishop that he was the 'brains' behind making sure our actions and demonstrations were not empty gestures. He always made sure we were keenly aware of our policy goals. One of which was greater investment into serving under-resourced communities through Orange Street School. That was nowhere on the City Council’s radar before Bishop made it a rallying cry for the people to get behind. After that time, I learned of Bishop’s long history of political organizing and I asked him to be my campaign manager. It’s not hard for me to say that I would not have defeated an incumbent in District 3 if it weren’t for Bishop’s expert strategy and advice. ... There’s no one in the city of Fayetteville that can get the electoral results that Bishop has proven he can produce. So in terms of young professionals who are at the top of their field — Bishop is the king of that hill."
Here's what else you should know about this member of The Fayetteville Observer's 40 Under 40 Class of 2024.
Who are your immediate family members?
I am the son of Dr. Ernest McNeill (deceased) and Antionette McNeill.
What does your job entail?
I manage the day-to-day operations of political campaigns and/or the political activities of an organization. This includes grassroots organizing, fundraising, voter education and many other election-related actions.
Where did you receive your education?
I graduated from E.E. Smith High School (class of 2004); Fayetteville State University (class of 2011); and George Washington University (class of 2016).
What community and professional groups are you affiliated with?
Cumberland County Young Democrats; Orange Street School Historical Association; American Association of Political Consultants
How do you volunteer your time in the community?
I have volunteered as a youth mentor, tutor and basketball coach for many years in Fayetteville. As a community activist, I have also given a lot of my time advocating for equal justice in terms of how we treat the homeless, mental health awareness and police accountability.
What is one thing you wish people knew or understood better about your profession?
Behind every annoying election phone call or flashy political mailer, there's someone like me whose job is to get you to the polls to vote for our candidate. Unfortunately, not enough people vote and a majority don't know anything about the candidates making these actions a necessary evil during elections.
What's the best advice you've ever received and/or the worst advice you've ever followed?
The best advice I ever received was to never be afraid to be yourself.
What goal have you already achieved, and how did you make it happen?
When I was younger I just wanted to find a career doing work that I'm passionate about. I always loved politics and ever since my first campaign it's never been hard to put in the work because I love my job.
If you weren't in your current profession, what would you be?
A basketball coach/teacher.
What are five things (not people or pets) you can't live without?
Hip-hop music, the beach, YouTube, Japanese food and laughter.
What's something you do outside of work to enrich yourself?
I love to travel, watch sports, play golf and basketball, and listen to music.
What's a song that always makes you happy or that motivates you?
"U Don't Know" by Jay-Z
Some responses may have been edited for style and grammar.
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