We are proud to showcase the 2023 graduation of 18 fellows from the Boards and Commissions Fellowship Program! That’s 18 dedicated individuals seeking systems change. In North Carolina, the government has historically and systemically marginalized Black, Brown, Indigenous, and rural communities across the state. Only when we shift the power back to the members of these communities can we truly protect our land, our water, our air, and our future.
What is the Boards + Commissions Fellowship Program?
B+C is the newest program from the North Carolina League of Conservation Voters Foundation. Our program prepares women, people of color, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, and other underrepresented groups to serve on local appointed boards and commissions. We’re one of the only training programs in the state that specifically prepares people to serve on boards and commissions. Such efforts increase productive voices advocating for environmental justice, social justice, and democratic inequalities that have historically plagued Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities.
An Inspiring Graduation
Though we are new, 2023 exceeded expectations for our fellows! On October 14th we graduated our second class. To date, thirty-eight have graduated from our program. Eighteen fellows graduated in 2023, and twenty graduated in 2022.
But our 2023 fellows didn’t just graduate, they got right to work! Ten fellows have either applied or received an appointment to a public board or commission. Two fellows are preparing to seek public office, while one fellow was elected to Fayetteville’s City Council. Our Air National Guardsman was called to Active Duty. Additionally, one of our fellows from our inaugural class announced they are seeking public office in Johnston County.
Click here to see more about the 2023 graduation!
A Successful Kickoff
Saturday March 9th, 2024, we officially launched our B+C class of 2024 in Fayetteville, NC! Both past and present fellows came together to kickoff the classes. Speakers reminded us all why we need this program: to shift the power back to communities! Especially communities of color and other systematically oppressed communities. Mayor Mitch Colvin joined us and spoke of the importance of the program. Additionally, Councilmember Malik Davis spoke of the importance to be dedicated to truth while holding these positions of power. Other speakers–such as Rashad Gibson from Power the Vote NC and Monique McMillan from PowerUp NC Fayetteville–highlighted the successes we have seen throughout our foundation’s programs.
And, of course, we enjoyed some great food too.
Get Involved
If you would like to learn more about organization or apply to Power Boards for Democracy Boards and Commissions Fellowship, click here! If you have any questions, please contact Kerry M. Wiggins, Program Director at 919.838.0006 ext.139
We are able to do this work because of the generosity of our mentors and donors. Please consider donating your time or money today!
