Orange County District 1 race narrows to two

Pam Gould has announced her withdrawal from the Orange County District 1 Commission race.

Gould took to Facebook Thursday, Jan. 11, to break the news. 

“After thoughtful consideration, I have realigned my personal priorities, and my family must take precedence,” she wrote. “I will continue to focus on impactful results as an (Orange County) School Board member through the end of my third term. It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve West Orange County in the nonprofit and public sectors for (more than) 23 years. Thank you to all of my partners, collaborators and supporters who supported me and my campaign.”

Gould — a West Orange resident for 23 years — has served on the School Board since 2012 and represents District 4. 

During her tenure, Gould has been instrumental in advancing the opening of 14 new schools, two rebuilds and multiple comprehensive campus improvements; increased career and technical certifications and training; expanded work-study opportunities for exceptional students; started Generation WOW; participated in an exclusive Guidewell Mental Health Think Tank which resulted in her introducing mental health first-aid training to the school district; increased guidance counselors and mental health services; and championed the electrocardiogram screenings that are now required for high school students wishing to participate in athletic programs, band and ROTC. 

She also spent four years as president and CEO of the Winter Garden-based nonprofit Shepherd’s Hope. She resigned from that position in January 2023.

With Gould’s departure, District 1 voters will choose between incumbent Nicole Wilson and Austin Arthur. Both candidates applauded Gould’s demonstrated commitment to the community and wished her continued success in the future.

“School Board Member Gould has devoted much of her career to public service and deserves our gratitude for the sacrifices she has made,” Wilson said. “I know she cares deeply about our community, and even though this might not be the right time for a County Commission candidacy, I’m sure she will continue to be involved in the causes near and dear to her. I have a great working relationship with her as my School Board counterpart and will continue to collaborate with her to serve our shared constituency.”

“Pam has always been kind to me — even while we were both running for the same seat,” Arthur said. “She’s a good person who cares deeply about our community. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors and look forward to working with her as we bring common sense, community-fueled leadership to Orange County Government through District 1.”

The election will take place in August.