Title: Mayor   

Municipality: Dallas

Positions Interested In: District #11 Representative

Q&A's:

TELL US WHY YOU WOULD LIKE TO SERVE IN A LEADERSHIP POSITION AT THE LEAGUE. IN PARTICULAR, SPECIFY GOALS YOU WOULD LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AS AN OFFICER OR BOARD MEMBER AND INDICATE HOW, IF ATTAINED, THEY WILL HELP TO ACHIEVE VISION 2030 – THE LEAGUE’S FUTURE VISION OF HOW CITIES AND TOWNS WILL OPERATE IN 2030?

I am honored to currently serve as the District 11 Representative and would value the opportunity to continue in this role. Being selected to complete the remainder of Mayor Turner’s term was both a privilege and a meaningful introduction to the League’s work. During my first year, I focused on learning, listening, and understanding how to effectively represent the league. As I move forward, I am confident in my ability to apply that knowledge with greater clarity, purpose, and impact for District 11 and the state.

My goal as a continued representative is to strengthen collaboration between municipalities, ensuring that the voices of District 11 are not only heard but actively shape the League’s priorities. I am passionate about advocating for our communities, sharing feedback from local leaders, and identifying opportunities that support sustainable, forward-thinking growth.

In alignment with Vision 2030, I am particularly focused on fostering regional partnerships, improving communication between local governments, and supporting strategic planning that prepares our towns for long-term success. I believe that strong leadership is rooted in teamwork and a willingness to advocate boldly while working collaboratively.

By continuing in this role, I aim to build on the foundation established in my first year, deepen relationships across the League, and contribute to a future where North Carolina’s cities and towns are resilient, innovative, and well-equipped to serve their citizens.

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TELL US ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AS A MUNICIPAL OFFICIAL. YOU MAY WANT TO INCLUDE INFORMATION ON YOUR SERVICE ON THE MUNICIPAL GOVERNING BODY, OTHER RELATED BOARDS AND SPECIAL AREAS OF INTEREST?

I serve as Mayor of the Town of Dallas and am currently in my third year of leadership, following more than two decades of prior administration. I stepped into this role with a clear expectation to improve communication, and that has become one of my core strengths—ensuring people understand not just what we are doing, but why it matters.

My focus has been on moving our town forward in a thoughtful and responsible way. We are addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges, particularly within our water system, while planning for growth without losing sight of the financial impact on our residents. I work closely with our board and Town Manager to set direction, make informed decisions, and execute on long-term priorities.

I remain actively engaged beyond the local level through my service as District 11 Representative for the League, as well as my involvement with the Gaston-Cleveland-Lincoln Metropolitan Planning Organization (GCLMPO) and the AFPI Mayor’s Alliance. These roles allow me to collaborate with leaders at the regional and national level, advocate for our municipalities, and bring back perspective and solutions that strengthen our community.

I approach leadership with a focus on clarity, accountability, and collaboration, and I am committed to building a community that is prepared, resilient, and positioned for the future.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND, PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE, AND/OR COMMUNITY OR CIVIC ACTIVITIES?

My background is grounded in both professional experience and a strong commitment to community and family, all of which shape my approach to leadership.

I began my career as a high school social studies teacher and coach, where I developed a foundation in leadership, communication, and accountability. In the classroom and on the field, I learned how to guide diverse groups, set clear expectations, and create environments focused on growth and performance; skills that continue to influence my work today.

I also bring a disciplined, team-oriented mindset, shaped in part by my experience as a collegiate athlete. That experience reinforced the importance of preparation, consistency, and working toward shared goals.

Beyond my professional background, I remain actively engaged in my community. I volunteer with Dallas Christian Ministry and help serve meals to the homeless, staying connected to those who are often most in need. I prioritize youth engagement through initiatives such as the Mayor for the Day program and participating in Read Across America, creating opportunities to connect with and invest in the next generation. I also promote health and wellness by encouraging community fitness initiatives and classes, and I partner with the Sheriff’s Office to support and train BLET officers, reinforcing my commitment to public safety and leadership development.

As a mother, I carry a deep sense of responsibility for the long-term decisions we make as a community. It reinforces my focus on sustainability, thoughtful planning, and ensuring that the work we do today positions the next generation for success.

These experiences have shaped me into a leader who values clarity, consistency, and collaboration.

I lead with purpose, communicate with intention, and make decisions with the future in mind.

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HAVE YOU PARTICIPATED IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING NCLM EVENTS OR COMMITTEES?

• CityVision Annual Conference

• Town & State Dinner or Town Hall Days

PLEASE PROVIDE ANY OTHER INFORMATION YOU WOULD LIKE THE NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER?

I bring a practical, results-oriented approach to leadership, grounded in both experience and a willingness to step into complex challenges. I have worked through real issues facing municipalities, and understand the level of focus and follow-through required to move initiatives forward.

I am intentional in how I lead, communicate, and collaborate. I value teamwork and diverse perspectives, but I also recognize the importance of being decisive and accountable. I take seriously the responsibility of representing others and strive to ensure that the voices and needs of our communities are not only heard, but effectively advanced.

I am committed to continued growth and to contributing in a way that adds value to the League and its members.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to continuing working together.