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Appointed leaders play key roles in state and local government and oversee a broad array of policy areas and functions, ranging from education and healthcare to utilities and lotteries. The NCIOPL Women on Board Program is intended to demystify the process of getting women appointed and serving on Boards.

Women from all backgrounds and careers have the skills necessary to pursue these public service opportunities. This program energizes women to seek appointed positions in their communities and improve their confidence and networking skills.

Appointed service can vary widely depending on:

  • The level of government involved – local, county, or state
  • The range of responsibilities held by its members – advisory or direct operations
  • Whether the position is part time or full time
  • The duration of the assignment – permanent or short-term
  • Whether its members are paid or not

This program focuses on the track record of women in public service and how the participants can continue and improve on that record.

Jessica Holmes- Program Manager

Jessica is an attorney, serving as a Deputy Commissioner on the North Carolina Industrial Commission. She graduated from UNC at Chapel Hill School of Law, where she earned the Distinguished Young Alumni Award and Outstanding Recent Graduate Award, respectively.
In November 2014, she was elected as the youngest county commissioner ever elected in Wake County’s history. Subsequently, she was unanimously elected by her colleagues to serve as Chair, becoming the youngest person ever to hold the position.

In 2020, Jessica became the first woman of color to earn the Democratic nomination for North Carolina Commissioner of Labor.

Host or Attend a Women on Board Workshop

Contact us if your organization would like to host a workshop or if you are interested in attending one.

Women on Board Workshop Request