Bilal Raychouni

"Born in Williamsburg, Bilal's family can trace its roots through Powhatan County's storied history, and he is proud to be the son of a Lebanese immigrant who came to this country in search of his own American Dream. With parents who were both public school teachers, he was raised to appreciate the value of education and has lived by the motto, "Learn something new every day." Bilal is now a Career Technical Education teacher and theatre director for Powhatan County Public Schools."

"The future of the Commonwealth depends on the education its youth receive today. When students succeed, it is not only through their efforts but with the support of a community that works to push those students ever higher. As an educator, Bilal is honored to assist in that journey, fostering growth, enthusiasm, and a lifelong love of learning."

"As a rural county teacher, Bilal has regularly heard from his students that, upon graduation, they will “leave and never come back” because “there’s nothing for me here.” Despite forming the backbone of the nation through agriculture and environmental preservation, America’s rural communities are largely left to flounder, rapidly declining as their suburban counterparts flourish. Bilal sees the immediate needs of small-town and country communities and will proudly act as their advocate and champion, ensuring they provide opportunities for people to live, work, and raise families while maintaining their rural character."

"The ability to manage one’s health is of paramount importance. In today’s America, the physical well-being of the people is often hampered by obscene price tags, misinformation, and a sheer lack of resources and providers. Bilal envisions a future where, when instructed to seek treatment, a patient’s first response is not, “How much,” or, “How far,” but is instead enthusiasm knowing they will get the help they need and that it won’t cost them valuable time and money to do so."