Governor Stein Appoints Leaders to Key State Boards and Commissions
RALEIGH, NC – Governor Josh Stein yesterday unveiled a series of appointments to critical state boards and commissions, bringing a diverse array of expertise to bolster North Carolina's efforts in justice, accessibility, homelessness, financial regulation, social services, and cannabis policy. These appointments reflect Governor Stein's commitment to leveraging experienced professionals from various sectors to address the state's most pressing challenges.
Equal Access to Justice Commission Welcomes New Member
David Webb of Nash County, currently serving as the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs in the Office of Governor Josh Stein, has been appointed as the Governor of North Carolina's designee to the Equal Access to Justice Commission. This commission aims to expand access to civil legal representation for low-income individuals and those of modest means, working to overcome barriers to justice across the state. Webb's background includes extensive political and social justice work, having served as political director for then-Attorney General Stein's gubernatorial campaign, regional director for U.S. Congressman Don Davis, and deputy political director for Cheri Beasley’s U.S. Senate campaign. He also taught social studies and social justice at Southwest Guilford High School.
Enhancing Support for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community
Dr. Jessica West of Durham County joins the North Carolina Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing as a person who is hard of hearing. The Council advises the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Public Instruction on services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals and their families. With a doctorate and Master of Public Health, Dr. West's academic and research background includes work as a faculty research scholar at Duke University and research fellow positions at Harvard Medical School and Duke University in otology, laryngology, and human development. She also served as a medical instructor for the Duke University School of Medicine.
Comprehensive Approach to Addressing Homelessness
A significant number of appointments were made to the North Carolina Interagency Council for Coordinating Homeless Programs, signaling a strong focus on housing stabilization and support for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This council advises the Governor and state agencies on strategies to reduce and end homelessness, promoting interagency collaboration and evidence-based practices.
New members include:
Brett Altman of Durham County, Assistant State Budget Officer with the NC Office of State Budget and Management, bringing expertise in performance management and housing policy.
Carla West of Johnston County, Deputy Secretary for Opportunity and Well-Being for the NC Department of Health and Human Services, who leads efforts to integrate person-centered services for self-sufficiency and well-being, including economic assistance and aging programs related to housing and homelessness.
Debra C. Farrington of Orange County, Deputy Secretary for Health at NCDHHS, overseeing offices that support and deliver health services, including public health and mental health. With over 30 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, she brings a wealth of knowledge in community-based services.
Ashley Nicole Jarrett of Burke County, Assistant Health Director for Burke County Public Health, recognized for her work on social determinants of health and innovative street-medicine models for marginalized residents.
Amy Modlin of Pitt County, with over two decades of experience in developing housing resources for individuals with disabilities, representing nonprofits providing services to people experiencing homelessness.
Deronda Metz of Mecklenburg County, a nationally recognized expert in homeless services with over 30 years of experience, representing faith-based service providers. She received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award in May 2024.
Samuel Gunter of Durham County, Executive Director of the NC Housing Coalition, bringing extensive affordable housing policy experience and prior service on the Interagency Council and State Disaster Recovery Task Force.
Marsha Basloe of Durham County, Principal of MRB Connects, with over 30 years in early childhood programs and a passion for supporting young children experiencing homelessness.
Pamela Suggs Story of Cumberland County, Social Work Coordinator and Homeless Liaison for Cumberland County Schools, a strong advocate for homeless students and families, named National Homeless Liaison of the Year in 1992.
Fred G. Mills, Sr. of Wake County, a seasoned real estate developer with nearly six decades in construction and affordable housing, having developed over 3,500 affordable rental units.
Karon McKinney of Forsyth County, Strategic Housing Initiatives Program Officer at United Way of Forsyth County, focusing on housing stability and trauma-informed systems.
Maria Perez of Wake County, Program Manager for the NC Medicaid Healthy Opportunities Pilot program, previously leading COVID-19 Support Services for NCDHHS.
Dr. Torry Reynolds of Forsyth County, a developmental educator and higher education professional from the NC Community College System.
Katrina Knight of Hanover County, Executive Director of Good Shepherd Center, with a Master of Social Work and extensive experience in homeless services and program development.
Jefferey Rawlings of Johnston County, representing lived experience of homelessness, brings over 20 years in IT support and recent work with nonprofits aiding people experiencing poverty and homelessness.
Emila Sutton of Durham County, Housing & Neighborhoods Director for the City of Raleigh, overseeing affordable housing, homelessness, and small business development, and leading the "Bringing Neighbors Home Pilot" initiative.
Strengthening the State Banking Commission
Three public members have been appointed to the North Carolina State Banking Commission, which supervises and regulates state banks, trust companies, and mortgage companies. The commission works to promote the strength and fairness of the state's financial services marketplace.
Yolanda McGill of Wake County, a former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau deputy assistant director and an attorney licensed in three jurisdictions, brings diverse legal and regulatory experience.
Mike Conlon of Wake County, President and CEO of Affordable Communities Group LLC and author of "Unconventional Wealth," adds a business and financial perspective.
Alex Funderburg of Mecklenburg County, a former managing director at Bank of America with extensive experience in complex financial transactions and organizational restructurings.
New Representation on the State Social Services Commission
Brandon Williams of Guilford County has been appointed as the 9th Congressional District Representative to the North Carolina State Social Services Commission. This commission develops administrative rules for the Division of Social Services within NCDHHS, covering a range of programs including child welfare and public assistance. Williams is a mental health clinic psychotherapist and clinical social worker, with a focus on improving mental health care accessibility through holistic interventions.
Advisory Council on Cannabis to Shape Future Policy
Governor Stein has also made key appointments to the newly formed North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis. This council is charged with studying and recommending a comprehensive approach to cannabis policy in North Carolina, aiming to create a safe, legal market for adults while protecting youth, ensuring public safety, promoting public health, and supporting agriculture.
New members include:
Dan Hirschman of Chatham County, General Counsel for the NC Department of Environmental Quality, previously serving as Senior Deputy Attorney General for the Environmental Division at the NC Department of Justice.
Kris Gardner of Wake County, Executive Director of the North Carolina Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, bringing over 20 years of experience as the association's general counsel.
Patrick Chandler Brown of Warren County, a fourth-generation farmer and winner of NC A&T’s 2024 Small Farmer of the Year Award, with expertise in growing industrial hemp.
Brian Harris of Catawba County, Chief of the Catawba Indian Nation since 2023.
These appointments underscore Governor Stein's dedication to assembling experienced and knowledgeable individuals to guide North Carolina's policy and services across a wide spectrum of vital areas.
