Originally from New York City, I have lived in Ft. Lauderdale and New Orleans before moving to Chapel Hill in 1998. I received my BFA from Pratt Institute, and completed my MA in Communications Technology from New York University. I am honored to have served as an elected official and on multiple municipal boards, including: OWASA Board of Directors 2001-2007, Chapel Hill Town Council 2009-2012, Orange County Board of Commissioners 2012-2020 - Chair 2018-2020. I found my experience in local government to be deeply fulfilling, as I worked together with my colleagues to make this community a welcoming place where everyone has a good quality of life. In addition, I am an advisor and sit on the board of a Woman’s Food Entrepreneur group based in Hillsborough, advancing successful startup companies owned by Women. I also serve as a Mentor with the Kenan Scholar Program housed in the Kenan Institute, UNC Chapel Hill.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My sons Mikko and Brody, who graduated from Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools before attending college, live nearby. My mom Jacky lives with me. I have two sisters who live on the west coast who visit often.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love serving the people of Orange County and am dedicated to helping our residents experience a good life and make it a place where everyone can follow their dreams.
Q: What do you love about our community?
The people. We live in a very diverse, dynamic, artistic community.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Tandem, Mercato, Med Deli, Brandwein’s Bagels, Panchito.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Since 1998
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Dr. Marcie Ferris
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Hawaii. I have been to every other state in America. Yep, even rode my bike through Alaska.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Amtrak Train across the country. Begin in New York City and end in San Francisco.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Weaver Street Co-op. Best place to gather.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Al Frankin. He is a brilliant human being who makes me laugh and think. I would sit outside and people watch while having a bagel with him at Brandweins bagels. Lox and a schmear for me.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Carrboro Farmers Market. It’s a great place to buy local food and meet up and talk with folks.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Just ending my term as Register of Deeds and retiring to begin something new.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am claustrophobic
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Watching UNC basketball in the Smith Center
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My sons. I have raised them to be quite good at challenging me.
Q: If you could give people and leaders in our community three words of wisdom, what would that be?
Listen, Passion, Grow