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Imagine yourself in public service

Lead for North Carolina connects promising young leaders with our state’s local governments. This innovative fellowship program supports communities and strengthens public institutions, while creating a new generation of extraordinary public servants.

Local government applications and fellowship applications are now open for the 2025-26 cohort year!


February 12, 2025

When Hurricane Helene tore through western North Carolina, leaving destruction and uncertainty in its wake, Elias Henderson didn’t hesitate to find a way to lend a hand.

February 10, 2025

Dante Pittman, a newly elected state representative for Wilson County, received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Carolina in 2018 and was an inaugural member of the UNC Institute of…

December 20, 2024

Alex Beddick’s journey from a passionate environmental science student to a dedicated public servant in Hyde County is inspiring.

Hannah Dove
 
Working with the community of Bessemer City has deepened my commitment to public service and community empowerment. I have seen firsthand how essential effective governance and community engagement are to a municipality’s well-being. This experience has reinforced my passion for entering a field where I can make a meaningful impact on my own community.

Hannah Dove is working with the city of Bessemer City on various projects. Her work includes helping the town meet NC Main Street membership requirements, conducting research on economic development opportunities, and reviewing and updating the traffic code to support effective governance and community growth.

Kristy Nguyen
 
I am grateful for the opportunity that Lead for North Carolina has given me to make a meaningful impact on the community. It is incredibly rewarding to see residents from all backgrounds attend and participate in town events and access essential services without language barriers.

As the Language Access and Community Coordinator for the Town of Apex, Kristy Nguyen is leading the implementation of the Town’s Language Access Plan to make resources and services more accessible to all residents. She collaborates with each department to identify and translate vital documents, ensuring key information is available to everyone, including Limited English Proficiency residents. She also coordinates interpretation services for town meetings and community events and works to ensure that all town programs, activities, and resources are accessible to all. These efforts break down language barriers and foster a more inclusive community where residents can actively engage with town programs, services, and local government.

AmeriCorps