Nagel announces candidacy for Hartselle school board

Richie Nagel has announced his candidacy for the Place Two seat on the Hartselle City Schools Board of Education.

Nagel graduated from the University of Alabama in Huntsville in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in industrial and systems engineering. He completed a master’s degree in systems engineering in 2014. He currently works for UAH as a research scientist.

“But day-to-day I work as an assistance engineer supporting [the Army’s] new future vertical lift aircraft,” Nagel said. He has been contracted to the U.S. Army for nearly 15 years.

Nagel is a Hartselle native. He and his wife, Abby, moved back to Hartselle from Auburn after the birth of their first child.

“Hartselle City Schools is the heart of this community,” Nagel said. “Hartselle has a rich tradition of excellence across the board. I want to make sure that we continue that tradition of excellence. I want my kids and my kids’ kids to have the same opportunity I did.”

Nagel has volunteered with several local organizations including Cub Scouts, Trail Life and College Street Players. He has coached youth sports teams and supported the PTO alongside his wife.

“Me and my wife have talked about me joining the school board for a few years,” he said. “I’m just at the place now that I feel able, I’ve got the time and energy to be able to commit to the community and to run and hopefully be a proactive member for the school board… I want to represent and be the voice for the community.”

Nagel and his wife have been married for 18 years. They have three children, two of whom have graduated from Hartselle High School.

Nagel is one of four candidates seeking the Place Two seat on the school board. He is facing incumbent James L. Joy, John Griffith and Chris Warnick.