Norwich — Second-term Democratic Alderman Derell Wilson was endorsed unanimously Thursday as Democratic candidate to run in the 46th state House District, which encompasses the southern and urban sections of Norwich.

Because the 46th is a single-town district, the political party town committees endorse candidates to run for the seat.

Wilson, 30, lead paraeducator at the Integrated Day Charter School in Norwich, announced his plans to run two weeks after 10-year incumbent Democrat Emmett Riley announced that he would not seek reelection. Riley nominated Wilson on Thursday. Riley’s wife, Melissa Riley, held the seat for the previous 10 years.

“I’m humbled to be the candidate for the 46th following the footsteps of Emmett and his wife, who served the district for two decades,” Wilson said after the endorsement meeting. “The biggest part for me is being the future voice for the 46th District.”

Wilson, in his second term on the Norwich City Council, said he has spent his time in office speaking with city residents and learning what families need “to live and thrive” in Norwich. He cited his record of fighting for neighborhood improvements and community services on the council and his work to help open dialogues among city agencies and between the city and school system.

“I’ve been a large advocate for community services and engagement and helping small businesses during the pandemic,” Wilson said. “I hope to bring those things to Hartford.”