About Onzlee
Onzlee Ware is an attorney in Roanoke, Virginia. He was born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina. Onzlee grew up in a single parent home. His mother taught him to respect all people regardless of race, wealth, religion or handicap. Onzlee graduated from North Carolina A&T University and received his law degree from North Carolina Central School of Law. The Roanoke Times calls Ware, "One of Roanoke's most influential attorneys." Ware first came to Roanoke in 1985 working as a member of the Blue Ridge Mountains Executive Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Onzlee fell in love with the Roanoke Valley and has been here ever since. Onzlee is one of the most active members of the community. He currently serves on numerous boards such as Opera Roanoke, Goodwill Industries, Carilion Roanoke Memorial, Taubman Museum of Art and he is the founder of the Juneteenth Freedom Day Foundation, Inc. He donates his time to many community organizations, too many to list. Onzlee is proud of his professional and community work in all parts of his district, ranging from Vinton to Northwest Roanoke.
Governor Warner appointed Onzlee to the Commonwealth Transportation Board in early 2002. Onzlee Ware announced his candidacy for the Democratic nomination in the 11th house district in 2003. Ware was successful in defeating a better-funded opponent and won the June 10th democratic primary election in 2003. With no Republican or Independent opposition, Onzlee Ware became the first African-American delegate west of Charlottesville. Delegate Ware has focused his efforts in the General Assembly on creating higher paying jobs, improving the public education system and provide affordable health insurance to the citizens of the 11th house district and all citizens of the great Commonwealth of Virginia. Delegate Ware currently serves on the Appropriations Committee, Counties, Cities and Towns Committee, and Education Committee.
In addition to being an attorney and delegate for the 11th house district, Onzlee is a proud father and grandfather. His daughter, Nikki and granddaughter, Keirra, currently reside in his hometown of Greensboro.