Political Leaders 2007 Profile: Bernard Coleman

Name:  Bernard C. Coleman III
Age: 28
Born: I was born in Alexandria and grew up in Fairfax.
Current Digs: I live in Springfield and work in Alexandria.
Occupation: Member Advocacy Specialist
Favorite part about the job: Interaction with my co-workers, our membership and playing a part in the public policy process.  I honestly can say this is the best environment and best company I will probably ever work for.  
First job ever?  Blockbuster Video as a Customer Service Representative.  I took the job for the fringe benefits— all the free movies I could watch seemed like a great reason.
Favorite book?  Barack Obama's Dreams of My Father and anything involving science fiction.
Favorite movie? Heat, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Million Dollar Baby, Shawshank Redemption.  I could go on and on…
Must-see TV?  I would definitely recommend Lost.  If you haven't seen it, you should.  Also, Heroes is excellent as well.
Comfort food? Cheesecake or Twizzlers
What's in your car CD player right now? I generally listen to my IPOD on shuffle but lately I have been listening to Common's new album Finding Forever.
Next vacation?  Key West, FL in January 2008.
Last gift you received? A Playstation game.
Whom do you admire and why? I've always liked Harold Ford, Jr. for his cool and collected speaking style as well as Barack Obama's ability to inspire and excite.
Best advice you ever got? The best advice always comes from my father.  If I had to sum up all of his advice and anecdotes, it would be, "Family first, remain faithful, don't cut corners, work hard, and be disciplined."
If you could have dinner with any one currently living, whom would it be and why? Colin Powell.  I would be interested to get his take on the state of the nation and where he thinks the U.S. is heading.  I can also appreciate that Colin Powell served in both Republican and Democratic administrations and was able to work effectively in a bipartisan manner.
Describe a perfect day. My wife and I on vacation, somewhere warm, taking in the sights and enjoying the culture of a European city with no worries of work or worldly obligations; just us relaxing and enjoying life to the fullest.
One thing most people might be surprised to learn about you? I am more opinionated than I might seem.
Ambition, political or otherwise? I would like to run for political office but I am unsure as to what level.  I know that I want to make a positive impact in my community and improve the lives of fellow Virginians.