Briefly describe your role at Golden LEAF.
I support Golden LEAF’s external affairs efforts by building relationships with community leaders, educational partners, policymakers, and other stakeholders across North Carolina while coordinating outreach and events, supporting government relations, and advancing strategic initiatives. I also serve as liaison to the Golden LEAF Board of Directors, working with Board members and staff to coordinate Board meetings and related activities.
Describe yourself in three words.
Collaborative. Dependable. Thoughtful.
What’s your favorite part of your job and why?
My favorite part of my job is connecting with people who are passionate about making their communities stronger. Whether I’m helping plan a scholarship event on campus, supporting one of our strategic initiative partnerships, or meeting with groups across the state, it’s rewarding to see how collaboration can create opportunities and lasting impact.
What is your favorite pastime outside of work?
I enjoy reading, needlepointing, and playing tennis. As proud NC State alumni, my husband and I are also big Wolfpack fans and spend a lot of time at football and basketball games!
What is your biggest work-related accomplishment within the last year?
One of the highlights of my first year at Golden LEAF was helping plan and execute visits to our Golden LEAF Schools across the state this past spring. Working alongside our Board, President, and partners at the N.C. Department of Public Instruction, I helped coordinate visits that gave us the opportunity to see the initiative in action and connect directly with participating schools. It was especially rewarding to see the work taking place in these schools and the potential this long-term investment has to create opportunities for students and strengthen rural communities across North Carolina.
What motivates you to support long-term economic development in rural, tobacco-dependent, and economically distressed communities?
As a lifelong resident of eastern North Carolina, I have seen both the strengths of our rural communities and the challenges they face as our state continues to grow and change. These communities are an important part of what makes North Carolina special, and I believe investing in their people and potential creates opportunities that benefit the entire state. I’m proud to play a small part in Golden LEAF’s work and to see the lasting impact those investments can have on rural communities across North Carolina.
Learn more about Sydney.