BIOGRAPHY
A native North Carolinian and resident of Blowing Rock, Ray Pickett has served in the North
Carolina House of Representatives since 2020, where he represents District 93, which is
comprised of Ashe, Alleghany and Watauga Counties. In the House, Rep. Pickett quickly emerged as a leader in the area of higher education policy; he currently serves as chair of the House Standing Committee on Education - Universities. Above all, the legislative accomplishments for which Rep. Pickett is proudest are the budget appropriations that he has secured for District 93. Whether it be a complex need like a multiple million dollar estimate for a new water system, or modest quote to acquire equipment for a local police department, Rep. Pickett has stepped up to the plate and brought much needed appropriations back from Raleigh.
Rep. Pickett spent his professional career in the hospitality sector, managing restaurants and other establishments, before ultimately owning and managing the Blowing Rock Inn. Since selling the Inn after being elected to the General Assembly, Rep. Pickett continues to be active in the tourism industry, both locally and at the state level. He notably serves on the North Carolina Travel and Tourism Board. Having called the High Country home for over 25 years, Rep. Pickett has deep roots in the community, previously serving on the Blowing Rock Town Council, the Blowing Rock Planning Board and as president of the Rotary Club of Blowing Rock. Additionally, he has served on the board of numerous local nonprofit groups. Rep. Pickett lives in Blowing Rock with his wife, Melissa, who currently serves on the Blowing Rock Town Council. He has an adult daughter, who also lives in North Carolina. They have three Wheaten Terriers: Nia, Finn and Liam. Rep. Pickett is a dedicated fan of Appalachian State athletics.