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Cohort 1

Jurisdiction: Elkin

University: Wake Forest

Hometown: Ararat, NC

Danielle Key served her fellowship in the Town of Elkin. Her work included acting as public information officer on the Explore Elkin team, boosting community engagement and supporting a more robust economic climate for local businesses. Key was project manager for the Town’s 2020 NC Trail Days Event, an initiative to promote Elkin as a major “trail” town and enhance economic development. She also planned the first annual CommUNITY Picnic to celebrate culture and unity through fellowship.

Key attended Wake Forest University, graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in communication and a minor in studio art. A Lambda Pi Eta inductee, she spent her time at Wake Forest as a physics tutor for student-athletes and a public speaking mentor for other students at the university’s Speaking Center. Her etchings and prints produced through courses were also chosen to be displayed in both the Hanes Art Gallery and START Gallery. Her interest in mentorship and government was sparked by her involvement in Tar Heel Girls State.

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