HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 04-14-2026; 7 - Board of Health – Appointments Discussion 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: April 14, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No. 7
SUBJECT: Board of Health — Appointments Discussion
DEPARTMENT: Board of Commissioners
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Recommendations Clerk's Office, 919-245-2125
Members and Applicants Summary Sheet
Applications for Persons Recommended
Applications of Other Applicants
Membership Roster
Applicant Interest List
Annual Work Plan
PURPOSE: To discuss appointments to the Board of Health.
BACKGROUND: The Board of Health is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory body for the
Orange County Health Department. It is charged to protect and promote the public health of
Orange County residents and is mandated by state law.
The Board of County Commissioners appoints all eleven (11) members with representatives from
specific health-related professions and the public.
The following individuals are recommended for Board consideration:
NAME POSITION TYPE OF EXPIRATION
DESCRIPTION APPOINTMENT DATE
TERM
Dr. Rachel Citizen/ Second Full Term 06/30/2029
Royce Commissioner
Appointment
Dr. Shielda Nurse Third Full Term 06/30/2029
Rodgers
Dr. Ann Brady Veterinarian First Full Term 06/30/2029
If the individuals listed above are appointed, the following vacancy remains:
POSITION EXPIRATION VACANCY INFORMATION
DESIGNATION DATE
Optometrist 06/30/2027 Vacant since 01/13/2026
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FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE — INCLUSIVITY AND ENGAGEMENT
We foster an environment in which all are welcomed, represented, and empowered to
participate in and feel connected to their community.
• GUIDING PRINCIPLE — DEDICATION AND RESPECT
We commit to our roles in public service and organizational excellence by fostering the
skills, talents, and innovation of our residents, employees, volunteers, and boards needed
to carry out this work.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board discuss appointments to the
Board of Health.
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ORANGE COUNTY
HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Improving health. Inspiring change.
February 26,2026
Laura Jensen
Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners
300 West Tryon Street
Hillsborough,NC 27278
RE: Reappointments
Dear Ms. Jensen,
This letter is to affirm that on, February 25,2026,the Board of Health recommended the following
reappointments:
Dr. Rachel Royce to her 2nd full term; and
Dr. Shielda Rodgers to her 3'full term.
Let me know if you need anything further.
Sincerely,
Jean Phillips-Weiner
Board of Health Strategic Plan Manager
Cc: Tara May
Tony Whitaker—Chair
Brian Crandell—Co-Chair
Earl McKee—County Commissioner Representative
Quintana Stewart—Health Director
La Toya Strange—Administrative Support I
919.245.2400 )0- 2501 Homestead Rd Chapel Hill, NC 27516 orangecountync.gov
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From: Kimberly"Jean"Phillips-Weiner
To: Tara May
Cc: Quintana Stewart;Tony Whitaker;twhitaker511Calyahoo.com
Subject: Re:Veterinarian Seat on BOH and Animal Services Advisory Board
Date: Thursday,March 26,2026 9:19:58 AM
Attachments: imaae001.ona
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imaae005.ona
image006.g_ng
Good morning Tara,
Last night the Board of Health approved an update to their operating procedures. Going forward,
the Board will recommend their representative for the veterinarian seat in alignment with the
recommendation for the same seat on the Animal Services Board.
Based on this update,the Board of Health is in support of the appointment of Dr. Ann Brady as
the new veterinarian representative for the Board of Health.
Please let me know if you have any questions or if I can provide further context.
Thanks,
Jean
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Board of Health Members and Applicants
Name Member or Applicant? Gender Identity Race/Ethnic Background Age Range Township Also Serves on
Dr.Lee Pickett Member Female White Eno
Dr.Brian Crandell Member Male White 35-59 Eno
Dr.Rachel Royce Member Female White 60+ Hillsborough
Dr.Shielda Rodgers Member Female African American 60+ Eno
Dr.Alison Stuebe Member Female White Chapel Hill
Tony Whitaker Member Male White 35-59 Hillsborough
Dr.Natalicio Serrano Member Male Hispanic 18-34 Chapel Hill
Dr.Davia Nickelson Member Female African American 35-59 Hillsborough
Dr.Aparna Jonnal Member Female Asian American Hillsborough
Earl McKee Member Chapel Hill
VACANT
Sandra Okeke Bates Applicant Female African American 18-34 Cheeks Adult Care Home and Nursing Home
Community Advisory Committee
Christian Bergevin Applicant Male White 18-34 Eno
Dr.Ann Brady Applicant Female White 60+ Bingham
David Colston Applicant Male White 18-34 Bingham
Matt Epstein Applicant Male White 60+ Hillsborough
Dr.Timothy Ives Applicant Male White 60+ Bingham
Victoria Menz Applicant Female White 18-34 Cheeks
Rhonda Patterson Applicant Female Other 60+ Chapel Hill Animal Services Advisory Board
Dr.Chris Ringwalt Applicant Male White 60+ Hillsborough Opioid Advisory Committee
Gary Sawhney Applicant Male Asian American 60+ Chapel Hill
Dr.Ryan Sheehy Applicant Male White 18-34 Cheeks
Erin Sley Applicant Female White 35-59 Cedar Grove
Matthew Sprenkle Applicant Male lHispanic 18-34 lChapel Hill
Gary West Applicant Male White 60+ Chapel Hill
James Wheeler Applicant Male White 35-59 Little River Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Randolph Wilson Applicant Male African American 35-59 Hillsborough
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Orange County, NC Boards & Commissions Submit Date: Feb 24, 2022
Application Form
Profile
Rachel Royce
First Name Middle Initial Last Name
rachel.a.royceC)gmail.com
Email Address
225 West King St
Home Address Suite or Apt
Hillsborough NC 27278
City State Postal Code
Mobile: (919) 260-1573
Primary Phone
What Township do you live in?
PF Hillsborough
Property Zone
Hillsborough Town Limits
Community Involvement
I have been involved in many volunteer community efforts. Circle of Welcome for Afghan Refugees - Set
up digital tools for the group, helped family move in, held welcome tea to connect them to other Afghani
families in the area. Volunteer teaching:Teach Sunday school for the past 10 years. Tutored kindergarten
students weekly in the River Park Elementary School in 2013-2014. PORCH - Lead organizer for several
years for PORCH where I publicized and collected food items and donations monthly in our downtown
neighborhood to help food insecure people in northern Orange County. I delivered these items to Orange
Congregations in Mission.Walkable Hillsborough -As a member of Walkable Hillsborough in the early
2000's we organized to advocate and encourage the town to build sidewalks and Riverwalk. We held an
annual event to educate the public about making Hillsborough walkable. Voter Registration - Volunteered
all over Orange County with non-partisan voter registration drives with You Can Vote and other
organizations. Board Member for non-profits:After the Rain, Park Valley Pool 2021 Member: Orange
County Beekeepers Association, Eno River Association
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Board of Health: Submitted
Interests & Experiences
Rachel Royce
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Relevant Experience Board #1
Trained as an epidemiologist- MPH in environmental epidemiology, PhD in infectious disease
epidemiology. Internship at the CA Department of Public Health Worked as a researcher in academia and
in other nonprofit organizations in close partnership with local and state health departments in NC and
other states to reduce the impact of infectious disease, to design public health interventions, and to
evaluate public health initiatives. For the past 30 years I have conducted research on HIV/AIDS,
tuberculosis (TB), and reproductive tract infections. I have conducted many evaluations of public health
programs and initiatives like the CDC's Community Transformation Grants. Epidemiology and public
health work is inherently collaborative. I have extensive experience working in partnership with others in
government, academia, and community organizations to solve public health problems. I led the NC site of
the CDC funded Tuberculosis Epidemiologic Studies Consortium from 2001-2011. In my professional
experience I have written grants and been responsible for managing all aspects of my research including
budgets, staffing, human subjects, logistics, community review boards, reporting, and publications. My
publications are available at Google Scholar(https:Hscholar.google.com/citations?user=a-X4EUoAAAAJ).
Reasons Want to Serve Board #1
I seek to bring together my public health skills and experiences with my community involvement to better
the health and well-being of the people of Orange County. I have generally conducted my community
work separate from my professional work but I would like to bring those two pieces together by serving on
the OC Health Board. Recently, I wrote 3 articles about the covidl9 epidemic for the News of Orange
(links available on my Linkedln profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-royce/). At this stage in my life I
am not working full time so I have time to help more.
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #1
Although infectious pathogens do not discriminate, health disparities figure strongly in who gets infected,
tested, becomes sick, receives care, experiences untoward outcomes or recovers fully. For that reason,
my work has always dealt with diversity. I have worked with and made substantive contributions to
improving the health of several special populations include those described by race, birthplace, class,
sexual orientation or gender identity, and individuals involved with substance use. For example,with
others, I established the African American Workgroup of the TB Consortium, led the first study of the
excess of tuberculosis in the African American community, held a national summit directing attention to
the disparity in tuberculosis, and designed and conducted an intervention to address the disparity. My
work has given me insight into a diversity of viewpoints and lived experiences.
Conflict of Interest Board #1
None
Relevant Experience Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #2
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #2
Rachel Royce
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Conflict of Interest Board #2
Reasons Want to Serve Board #3
Relevant Experience Board #3
Diversity of Viewpoints Board #3
Conflict of Interest Board #3
Past Service
None to Orange County boards
Demographics
We ask your help in assuring diversity of membership by answering the following questions:
Age Range
P 60+
OC Ethnicity
PF White
OC Gender Identity
W Female
Ethics Guidelines
Ethics Guidelines for Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
agree by my signature below that, if appointed, I pledge to comply with the following ethics
guidelines for advisory boards and commissions as adopted by the Orange County Board of
Commissioners.
• Conflict of Interest
1. During advisory board meetings, a member shall immediately disclose any potential
conflict of interest and request to be excused from voting when he or she has a conflict of
interest.
2. During appeal proceedings, the applicant has the right to question the interest of any
voting member. The advisory board chair should consult with the County Attorney or
Rachel Royce
9
staff attorney on any potential conflict of interest in appeal matters.
3. In determining from existing facts and circumstances whether a conflict of interest exists
the determining party shall consider the facts and circumstances as would an ordinary
and reasonable person exercising prudence, discretion, intelligence, and due care.
• Gifts
1. An advisory board member shall not directly or indirectly ask, accept, demand, exact,
solicit, seek, assign, receive, or agree to receive any gift or honorarium for the advisory
board member, or for another person, in return for being influenced in the discharge of
the advisory board member's official responsibilities.
2. This section shall not apply to gifts or awards authorized by Orange County Policies,
Resolutions, or Ordinances.
• Code of Ethics
1. Advisory board members should act with integrity and with independence from improper
influence as they exercise the functions of their offices. Characteristics and behaviors
that are consistent with this standard are:
1. Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
2. Behaving consistently and with respect towards everyone with whom they interact.
3. Exhibiting trustworthiness.
4. Living as if they are on duty as appointed officials regardless of where they are or
what they are doing.
5. Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they see it,
presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent manner.
6. Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and not subject to improper influence, while
at the same time being able to consider the opinions and ideas of others.
7. Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of public
meetings, and refraining from seeking or receiving information about quasi-judicial
matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
8. Treating other advisory boards and advisory board members and the public with
respect, and honoring the opinions of others even when they disagree.
9. Being careful not to reach conclusions on issues until all sides have been heard.
10. Showing respect for their appointed office and not behaving in ways that reflect
badly on the office, the advisory board, Orange County, or the Orange County
Board of Commissioners.
11. Recognizing that they are part of a larger group and acting accordingly.
12. Recognizing that individual board members are not generally allowed to act on
behalf of the board, but may only do so if the board specifically so authorizes, and
that the board must take official action as a body.
13. Being faithful in the performance of the duties of their offices.
14. Acting as especially responsible residents whom others can trust and respect.
15. Faithfully attending and preparing for meetings.
16. Carefully analyzing all credible information that is properly submitted to them, and
when applicable, being mindful of the need not to engage in communications
outside the meeting in quasi-judicial matters.
17. Being willing to bear their fair share of the board's workload.
18. To the extent appropriate, they should be willing to put the board's interests ahead
of their own and shall avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest and shall, under
no circumstances, use their position on any board for personal gain or profit.
2. Members of the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, Economic Development
Commission, and Board of Equalization and Review shall upon initial appointment, and
prior to December 31 annually thereafter, disclose:
1. Any interest he or she or his or her spouse or domestic partner has in real property
situated in whole or in part in Orange County and the general description of that
property.
Rachel Royce
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2. Any legal, equitable, beneficial or contractual interest he or she or his or her spouse
or domestic partner has in any business, firm or corporation, which is currently
doing business with Orange County pursuant to contracts awarded by Orange
County, or which is attempting, or has attempted in the past calendar year, to
secure the award of a bid from Orange County or the approval of any Board or
Agency of Orange County.
3. Failure to file a disclosure statement setting out the above required information shall
result in immediate removal of the member from the applicable board.
I agree with the Above Statement
By checking this box I certify that this serves as an electronic version of my signature, for
the sole purposes of this form.
P I Agree
Rachel Royce
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Page 1 of 2 Shielda Rodgers
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. (Ph.D.) Shielda Rodgers
Name Called:
Home Address: 4915 Eno Woods Trail
Durham NC 27712
Phone: 919-641-7132
Email: srodgers@email.unc.edu
Year of OC Residence: 1999
Township of Residence:
Zone of Residence:
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Central Carolina Black Nurses Association
Kyles Temple AME Zion Church Health Ministry
Advisory committee for the Levine Wellness Initiative (UNC School of Nursing)
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I am a long time nursing educator, most recently at UNC Chapel Hill for the past 18 years. It is
my professional obligation to stay aware of health issues facing our community. I continue to be
a frequent speaker on topics relevant to health particularly as it relates to the African American
populations and health disparities. Currently I am a project director for a $2 million dollar grant to
minimize the impact of social determinants of educational success in the school of nursing. My
professional degrees include a BSN from North Carolina Central University, and Master of
Science and Doctor of Philosophy(Ph.D.) in Nursing from the University of Maryland Baltimore
City. During my time in Maryland I served on numerous community boards including the
Alzheimers Association of the Eastern Shore and a founding member of a federally funded
community health center. Nurses are often the first line of intervention for health problems by
serving as health promoters and educators. Over the years my experience, service and
education have served to enhance my ability to address a large number of health issues-not just
physical, but environmental as well.
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I have always wanted to serve my community but with the requirements of my job felt the time
commitment might preclude me from dedicated service. My experience is best suited to a board
that deals with issues of health and at this point my employment is quite flexible allowing me
time to volunteer. In addition, my neighbor Dr. Lee Pickett encouraged me to apply
Contribution to the diversity of viewpoints on this board:
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Page 2 of 2 Shielda Rodgers
Nurses can bring a perspective of one that is involved in health promotion,disease prevention
and care of those that are ill. In addition, as an educator we teach students to also examine the
person in terms of the community in which they live but also to realize that the health of the
community is paramount to the health of individuals. In addition, I can bring a diverse
perspective of one from an ethnic minority group.
Conflict of Interest:
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/8/2020 4:42:07 PM Date Printed: 3/10/2020
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Page 1 of 2 Ann Brady
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Ann Brady
Name Called:
Home Address: 1477 Radnor Farm Rd.
Mebane NC 27302
Phone: 336-260-7454
Email: annbrady933@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2015
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
foster for Crisis Dogs NC
NC Veterinary Medical Assoc., Humane Veterinary Medical Alliance
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
10 years of research experience at EPA; 32 years of veterinary practice; frequent attendance at
One Health conferences
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to be involved in local government.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have worked closely with the public for 32 years in veterinary practice. I understand the role of
animals in community physical and mental health.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
retired 8/29/2026 and sold my practice;
currently organizing a Mobile small animal veterinary practice
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
10 years of research experience at EPA; 32 years of veterinary practice; frequent attendance at
One Health conferences
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
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Page 2 of 2 Ann Brady
I want to be involved in local government.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have worked closely with the public for 32 years in veterinary practice. I understand the role of
animals in community physical and mental health.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
retired 8/29/2026 and sold my practice;
currently organizing a Mobile small animal veterinary practice
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/21/2026 10:18:00 AM Date Printed: 4/2/2026
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Page 1 of 2 Sandra Okeke Bates
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mrs. Sandra Okeke Bates
Name Called:
Home Address: 318 McClellan Trl
Mebane NC 27302
Phone: 703-943-6558
Email: sandra.bates0617@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2022
Township of Residence: Cheeks
Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Duke Graduate & Professional Student Government, Director of DEI
Duke Nursing Student (May 2024 Grad)
Postpartum Doula Volunteer- MAMME INC
Health Promotion - CASA Veteran Housing Community, Durham, NC
Advisory council member- President Council on Black Affairs (Duke)
Dementia Care -Senior Community Care of North Carolina (PACE)
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
With my multifaceted background, I can contribute significantly to advancing public health
initiatives and improving our community well-being. As a nursing student, I have gained a solid
foundation in community health. I have planned and implemented evidenced based interventions
for diverse communities. I have organized sustainable health campaigns that empowered
individuals to make informed decisions. Engaged in fireside chat conversations with various
policy makers to discuss health-related policy changes and its effect on our communities.
Serving as a DEI director has honed my skills in fostering inclusivity. My commitment to
assessing the SDOH, addressing health disparities and advocating for equitable access to
healthcare services for all community members is very pivotal in my decision to join the board.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to gain a better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the board, and I am
eager to collaborate with fellow board members, advocate for evidence-based policies, and
promote health equity for all of Orange County community members. I would like to contribute to
the fullest extent of my potential to Orange County
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
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Page 2 of 2 Sandra Okeke Bates
I collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals on a daily basis, attend health-related
policy conferences, and immerse myself in our communities, so I believe that I can bring
valuable and holistic lens to health related discussions
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Social Services
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
With my multifaceted background, I can contribute significantly to advancing social services
initiatives and improving our community well-being. As a nursing student, I have gained a solid
foundation in community health, and worked with social workers and case managers to connect
patients with community based resources. I have planned and implemented evidenced based
interventions for diverse communities. I have organized sustainable campaigns that empowered
individuals to make informed decisions. Engaged in fireside chat conversations with community
members to talk about homelessness, domestic violence, and exploitation of our aging
community members. As a domestic violence survivor myself, I knew that the only way that I
survived and thrived is because of the help and resources that I was connected to. I want to be
able to contribute the same to our community members.
I also volunteer as a postpartum doula to families and single parents that cans€TMt afford a
doula service after given birth. Connect them to accessible community resources for diapers,
food, baby clothing and many more. I offer the gift of time to these families&single birthing
persons, with the hope that they get sometime to do something for themselves (sleeping, take a
long bath, calling family and friendsa€;..).
Volunteers at Parktown food hub in Durham to help pack give away bag to people in the
communities
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am eager to collaborate with fellow board members, advocate for evidence-based policies that
ensures that resources and support are provided to community members that are at risk for
homelessness, violence, and exploitation. I also want to do the best I can to contribute optimally
to our community
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals on a daily basis, attend health-related
policy conferences, and immerse myself in our communities, so I believe that I provide valuable
contributions to discussions
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 2/24/2024 10:07:55 PM Date Printed: 2/26/2024
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Page 1 of 2 Christian Bergevin
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Christian Bergevin
Name Called:
Home Address: 3314 Seven Springs Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 651-925-7662
Email: Bergevin59@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2023
Township of Residence: Eno
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
none at this time
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
none at this time
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I serve on an Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. On this committee my
Responsibilities include, at least semiannually, the institution's program for the humane care
and use of animals; Inspect, at least semiannually, the institution's animal facilities (including
satellite facilities); Prepare reports to the Institutional Official (10)of the IACUC evaluations;
Review animal welfare concerns; Make recommendations to the 10 on any aspect of the animal
program, facilities, or personnel training; Review and approve, those components of PHS
conducted or supported activities related to the care and use of animals; Review and approve,
proposed significant changes to the use of animals in ongoing activities; and Be authorized to
suspend an activity involving animals.
Https://olaw.nih.gov/resources/tutorial/iacuc.htm
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a long history in community service and am now in a position where I can begin to
volunteer at the local level.
I serve as a community member that is not affiliated with the institution in the IACUC. I hope this
appointment can allow me to interact with members of the community so i may represent their
interests when considering amendments to policy.
Finally, I care for animals and would like to connect to this part of our community!
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
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Page 2 of 2 Christian Bergevin
I am a veteran and new resident in the community, both position my viewpoint unique from my
peers.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My background in healthcare administration, public policy, and research ethics provides a
strong foundation for service on the Orange County Board of Health. My graduate training at
the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health strengthened my ability to interpret regulations,
evaluate population level impacts, and support evidence based decision making. My
professional experience managing data driven quality and operational initiatives has given me a
systems level understanding of community health needs and organizational accountability.
Combined with prior service as a Navy Search and Rescue Medical Technician, I bring
disciplined judgment, analytical rigor, and a sustained commitment to advancing the health and
well being of Orange County residents.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am seeking to serve on the Orange County Board of Health to contribute meaningfully to the
county's long term public health strategy and to support evidence based policymaking that
strengthens community well being. I value the Board's role in safeguarding population health,
promoting equity, and ensuring accountable stewardship of public resources. My professional
and academic background has given me a deep appreciation for the complexity of public health
systems and the importance of thoughtful governance. I am committed to bringing a disciplined,
service oriented perspective to the Board's work and to advancing the health of all Orange
County residents.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My participation on the Orange County Board of Health would contribute a systems oriented,
interdisciplinary viewpoint shaped by experience in healthcare administration, public policy, and
research ethics. I approach public health challenges with analytical rigor, an understanding of
operational realities, and a commitment to equitable outcomes. My background includes both
frontline service and organizational level problem solving, allowing me to consider how policies
affect residents with diverse needs and circumstances. I value collaborative, evidence based
deliberation and strive to integrate practical implementation considerations with long term
strategic thinking. This combination of perspectives would broaden the Board's discussions and
support balanced, community focused decision making.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 2/2/2026 7:09:21 PM Date Printed: 2/16/2026
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Page 1 of 2 David Colston
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. David Colston
Name Called:
Home Address: 1319 Heron Pond Dr.
Chapel Hill NC 27516
Phone: 734-355-1500
Email: dcolston@unc.edu
Year of OC Residence: 2021
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Co-chair, opioid student research group Injury and Violence Prevention Fellow at UNC
Injury Prevention Research Center PhD candidate, UNC Department of Health Behavior
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
This would be the first community activity I have engaged with as a resident of Orange
County, though I have previously applied to be on the opioid advisory board.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a current second-year PhD Student in Health Behavior at UNC-Chapel Hill, where I am
helping to understand and guide the development of interventions related to substance use in
rural, Southern Ohio. I hold a Masters in Public Health from the University of Michigan in Global
Health Epidemiology, and an undergraduate degree in Public Administration (from Miami
University in Oxford, Ohio).
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a demonstrated interest in reducing the burden of morbidity and mortality tied to
substance use. I am excited at the prospect of working with an interdisciplinary group in Orange
County to help form opioid-related policies and develop harm reduction strategies to make opioid
use safer, and facilitate the linkage to treatment services for those who hope to begin their
recovery process.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
While this would be the first advisory board I d be participating on, I feel I am uniquely positioned
to contribute to the board as a researcher with degrees in Public Administration and
Epidemiology, and experience working in the field of public health (specifically in the area of
substance use). Further, I am a harm reduction advocate- my primary intention is to reduce the
burden of overdose mortality, and a major piece of that is making substance use safer for those
who are in active use and do not intend or are unable to enter the recovery process. I fully
recognize this might differ from the perspective of others on the committee, and would greatly
20
Page 2 of 2 David Colston
appreciate the opportunity to have these discussions with individuals of various backgrounds
and mindsets to make salient, impactful change surrounding opioid use and overdose in Orange
County.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
No. I do not have any personal or business interests that could create a conflict of interest if
appointed to this board.
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am a current fourth-year PhD candidate in Health Behavior at UNC-Chapel Hill, where my work
focuses primarily on understanding the social determinants of health in the United States. . I hold
a Masters of Public Health from the University of Michigan in Global Health Epidemiology, and
an undergraduate degree in Public Administration (from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio). Most
relevant to the Orange County Board of Health is my experience working with community
members in Appalachian Ohio to develop and scale up evidence based interventions that align
with the needs of individuals with substance use disorders and individuals in recovery, though I
also served as an Ohio Public Leaders Fellow, where I spent a month working with the city
government of Troy, Ohio, on issues related to public health. Most recently, I have been
interviewing North Carolina residents with substance use disorders, harm reduction service
providers, and substance use treatment providers to better understand the development and
treatment of polysubstance use.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I am a passionate and informed advocate for improving health at the population level, and I have
always been intentional with my educational efforts and work experience to better understand
how to work with community members to identify needs, develop studies to understand and
illuminate needs to policy-makers, and ultimately work with policy-makers at the local, state, and
national level to make informed, evidence-based change to improve public health. I believe
working with the Board of Health would allow me to directly impact the community I live in, and
would be invaluable experience to my work in the future for the residents of Orange County and
North Carolina as a whole.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
While this would be the first advisory board I would be participating on, I feel I am uniquely
positioned to contribute to the board as a researcher with degrees in Public Administration and
Epidemiology, and experience working in the field of public health.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
No. I do not have any personal or business interests that could create a conflict of interest if
appointed to this board.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
Originally applied for Opioid Advisory Committee 10/18/2022 3:37:29 PM
Updated application and applied for Board of Health 1/15/2025 9:41 PM
This application was current on: 10/18/2022 3:37:29 PM Date Printed: 1/29/2025
21
Page 1 of 2 Matt Epstein
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Matt Epstein
Name Called:
Home Address: 709 Lorentello Cir
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-491-0626
Email: mattepstein7@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 1994
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Board Member, Orange County Dispute Settlement Center; Faculty Shared Learning and
Duke OLLI
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Past ED of Center for Child and Family Health, ED global health group, extensive experience in
mental health and elderlaw
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Glad to help if needed
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Cannot answer without knowing the viewpoints of others but never one to go along with the
crowd or value my opinions over those of others
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Worked with drug addicts years ago and have had lifetime interest in drug policy.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Important issue. If my involvement would be helpful, glad to step up
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
22
Page 2 of 2 Matt Epstein
Cannot answer without knowing the viewpoints of others but never one to go along with the
crowd or value my opinions over those of others
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/12/2025 1:49:49 PM Date Printed: 3/14/2025
23
Page 1 of 3 Timothy Ives
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Timothy Ives
Name Called:
Home Address: 5502 Bradshaw Quarry Rd.
Efland NC 27243-9615
Phone: 919-563-2246
Email: timothy_ives@med.unc.edu
Year of OC Residence: 1981
Township of Residence: Bingham
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Recently, I have moved into full time teaching and research in the UNC Eshelman School
of Pharmacy, but for the last 23 years, I directed the Chronic Pain Program in the
Department of Medicine, School of Medicine. Our focus was on migitating opioid risk by
concentrating on non-opioid or non-drug therapies.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Board of Health, Orange County Health Department (1991-2000); Chair (1995-2000)
Orange County Home and Community Care Block Grant Advisory Committee (1992-
1997) Health Department Representative, UNC Hospitals Managed Care Committee
(1997-1998)
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
In speaking with Dr. Evan Ashkin, I heard about the vacancies on the Opioid Advisory
Committee, and wish to be considered for it. In terms of experience, for the last 22 years, I
directed the Chronic Pain Program in the Division of General Medicine and Clinical
Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, at UNC. In that program, we have worked to manage
various chronic pain conditions with a minimum of use of opioids. In the past, I saw on the
Advisory Board of the NC Governor s Academy for Prevention Professionals, and the Governor
s Institute on Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and from the outset, the NC Controlled Substances
Reporting System Advisory Committee in the NC Department of Health and Human Services.
Years ago, I was on the Orange County Board of Health, serving as its Chair for four of those
years. This is say that I am well aware of the issues associated with the opioid epidemic, and
that there are a number of solutions to be considered. It would be an honor to be considered for
one of the vacancies as there is a lot to be done, and i would like to contribute here in Orange
County.
As noted previously, I have directed the Chronic Pain Program in the Department of Medicine at
UNC. In it, the emphasis is on minimizing opioid use to manage pain while guarding against or
managing opioid use disorder(OUD). My residency(in pharmacy)was in family medicine with a
24
Page 2 of 3 Timothy Ives
focus on addictions and mental health.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
In addition to wanting to contribute to the welfare of the county, I believe that we have an
excellent opportunity to model some of the policies and ideas that have demonstrated benefit for
those in the community who need the services the most but may not adequately have the
personal resources to stay in control and contribute to society themselves.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I've seen the pain and suffering that many patients have and continue to have, and compassion
and caring for them is always the best place to start, especially for health care practitioners.
Also, as someone who lives and interacts out in the rural part of the county, the perspectives that
I can provide may give a balance to our efforts to provide care.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
MPH from UNC Gillings School of Public Health, and prior service on the Board of Health (Chair
for 4 years) about 20 years ago are two of the main experiences.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
The sentinel effect of a board of health has an impact on numerous parts of the community
simultaneously. We did a lot of good in the past(e.g., tobacco use bans county-wide), but there
always more to do.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I was the Pharmacist member of the Board and could always cover medication issues, but living
and acting within the county can always provide a different perspective, independent of the
designation that you may have.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My wife and I have participated in numerous shelters, and we have 3 dogs (all from shelters in
the region) and 2 cats.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
There are far too many feral/homeless animals in our community that need support and fostering
and forever homes, and it is a shame that this condition still persists.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I'm not sure, other than we live out in the country west of Carrboro, and we see too many
animals being dumped out here and we may be able to educate more people across the country
about this issue and offer positive solutions. It's a teachable moment.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
25
Page 3 of 3 Timothy Ives
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 11/20/2024 11:30:40 AM Date Printed: 3/21/2025
26
Page 1 of 3 Victoria Menz
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ms. Victoria Menz
Name Called:
Home Address: 1211 Ben Johnston Rd.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 423-963-9655
Email: vcoopmenz@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2018
Township of Residence: Cheeks
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Campus & Community Coalition (CCC)
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
n/a
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I hold an MSW, and my role concentrates on macro/mezzo practice and public health. I
currently serve as the Substance Use Education & Prevention Coordinator at UNC-Chapel Hill,
where I lead campus-wide harm reduction initiatives, oversee naloxone distribution, and
collaborate with community partners on sustainable prevention strategies. I've managed over
$300,000 in substance use-related grants and have authored funding proposals for opioid
settlement dollars. I also bring lived experience as a person in long-term recovery, which
deepens my understanding of effective and compassionate approaches to substance use.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to ensure that opioid settlement funds are allocated in ways that promote equity,
sustainability, and evidence-based practices. With both professional and personal insight into
substance use and recovery, I hope to advocate for strategies that reduce harm, support
communities, and invest in prevention and treatment infrastructure. I also bring experience
tracking outcomes, managing grants, and evaluating programs' skills that can support
responsible and impactful allocation of these funds.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I bring both professional and lived experience to the board. As a person in recovery working in
public health, I understand the nuances of substance use across different communities,
including how stigma and systemic inequities limit access to care. I also work regularly with
students from a variety of backgrounds and identities, which has shaped an intersectional lens I
apply to all policy and program work.
27
Page 2 of 3 Victoria Menz
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I am employed at UNC-CH as the Substance Use Education & Prevention Coordinator within
Student Wellness. While this position involves substance use prevention and education, I do
not oversee any budgets funded by county dollars. If appointed, I would recuse myself from any
decisions that directly affect my employer to avoid any real or perceived conflicts.
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have an MSW, and my role concentrates on macro/mezzo practice and public health. My role
at UNC-Chapel Hill centers on substance use prevention and wellness promotion. I manage
media campaigns, strategic planning, and coalition-building efforts that span multiple
dimensions of health, including mental health, substance use, and health equity. I regularly
collaborate with local and statewide public health partners and use data-informed approaches
to improve health outcomes on campus and beyond.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I'm committed to advancing holistic, equity-based public health strategies in Orange County.
Serving on the Health Board would allow me to support broader systems-level efforts and
represent the needs of young adults, people in recovery, and underserved communities. I also
hope to contribute my knowledge of harm reduction, stigma reduction, and prevention to
ongoing public health discussions and decisions.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My background in both social work and public health gives me a unique systems-level lens. As
a woman in recovery working in higher education, I can offer perspectives that are often
underrepresented in public health governance including youth mental health, substance use
stigma, and barriers to prevention and care. My work prioritizes the voices of marginalized
communities and centers health equity.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I work at UNC-Chapel Hill in a public healtha€"related role focused on substance use
prevention within Student Wellness. My position does not involve seeking or managing county
funding, and I do not represent my employer in any official capacity. I would recuse myself from
any decisions that could directly affect UNC-CH to avoid any conflict of interest.
Board of Social Services
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I hold a Master of Social Work and currently serve in a public health role that involves working
closely with students facing housing insecurity, food insecurity, and mental health challenges all
of which intersect with the work of social services. My experience includes systems-level
planning, grant management, and program implementation. I've also worked in community-
based crisis support, leading trauma-informed healing groups through an intersectional lens.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to help ensure that social services in our county are inclusive, trauma-informed, and
responsive to the needs of diverse populations. I'm particularly interested in the social
determinants of health and how county programs can improve access to housing, food,
behavioral health, and prevention services. I hope to bring a strong systems thinking approach
that considers both immediate needs and long-term impact.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
28
Page 3 of 3 Victoria Menz
As a social worker and public health professional who has also personally navigated systems of
care, I bring both analytical and lived perspectives to the table. I understand the barriers that
exist in accessing services, especially for those impacted by stigma, poverty, or discrimination.
My lens is shaped by equity, prevention, and long-term well-being for individuals and families.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
I am employed in a university-based public health role that focuses on student wellness and
substance use prevention. I do not manage or apply for county-administered social services
funding. If appointed, I would ensure transparency and recuse myself from any decisions that
could involve my employer.
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/8/2025 9:37:26 AM Date Printed: 8/8/2025
29
Page 1 of 2 Rhonda Patterson
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Ms. Rhonda Patterson
Name Called:
Home Address: 1000 Novus Ln.
#335
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 410-505-0496
Email: Rhondear@yahoo.com
Year of OC Residence: 2016
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: Other
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Presently, being recommended for At Large position with Orange County Animal
Services. Volunteer with Eyes Ears Nose & Paws; will start training this August 25 with
GAL (Guardian ad Litem).
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Recommended to become a member of the Advisory Board with Orange County Animal
Services for position At-Large. BOCC to vote in September
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Animal Services Advisory Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Passionate about animal safety and care.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Would be honored to become more involved in servicing Orange County and making a valuable
meaningful contribution.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I am confident my background in healthcare finances, administration, operations and my deep
passion to make a difference in my community along in the lives of animals could add value in
making a positive difference.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
30
Page 2 of 2 Rhonda Patterson
My background and expertise is in the Health Care Industry where I provided leadership on
operational, finance, customer service and human resources.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I'm certain I can make a meaningful contribution.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Advisory Board on Aging
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I've participated and volunteered in various programs for the aging.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
To be of service and to make a contribution.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Passionate human who cares deeply for our planet!
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Passionate human who cares deeply for our planet!
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
Applied for Animal Services Advisory Board 1/4/2025 8:49:30 AM
Applied for Board of Health, Advisory Board on Aging, and Commission for the
Environment 6/23/2025 1:21:47 PM
This application was current on: 6/23/2025 1:21:47 PM Date Printed: 6/24/2025
31
Page 1 of 2 Chris Ringwalt
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Chris Ringwalt
Name Called:
Home Address: 144 N. Wake St.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 919-259-0643
Email: RINGWALT@PIRE.ORG
Year of OC Residence: 1982
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: Town of Hillsborough
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Hillsborough Community Garden (Board member) Reentry House Plus (Board member)
Orange County Opioid Advisory Committee A250 Committee Yokefellows (ministry at
Orange Correctional) St. Matthews Epispocal Church
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Doctor of Public Health from UNC Gillings School of Public Health Chair, Alcohol, Tobacco and
Other Drug Section, American Journal of Public Health Board Secretary, Society for Prevention
Research Senior Scientist, UNC Injury Prevention Research Center Senior Scientist, Pacific
Institute for Research and Evaluation Advisory, Law Enforcement Against Drugs 35 years of
research experience in substance use prevention with support from NIDA, NIAAA, CDC, and
many other sources
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a passionate interest in public health practice and promotion. My particular area of
expertise relates to behavioral health
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Good question. I freely recognize that as a white male my contribution to diversity may be
limited. But I am also a strong advocate of harm reduction strategies that meet and support
people with opioid and alcohol misuse problems where they are, non-judgmentally.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
32
Page 2 of 2 Chris Ringwalt
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Opioid Advisory Committee
Application Date: 9/20/2022
Background, education and experience relevant to this board:
I have a DrPH (Public Health)from UNC and a longstanding personal and professional interest
in the prevention of opioid overdose. I was active for many years in the NC Harm Reduction
Coalition, and have served as a preceptor for a UNCSPH Capstone Team su
Reasons for wanting to serve on this board:
I am a strong advocate of harm reduction strategies - I am currently writing a book chapter on
the subject-and how they can be effectively applied in community settings. I would like to see
them adopted widely across Orange County.
Conflict of Interest:
Other Comments:
Applied for Opioid Advisory Committee 9/20/2022 10:46:15 AM
Applied for Board of Health 6/26/2025 1:27:34 PM
This application was current on: 6/26/2025 1:27:34 PM Date Printed: 6/30/2025
33
Page 1 of 3 Gary Sawhney
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Gary Sawhney
Name Called:
Home Address: 3700 High Meadow Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 919-536-8877
Email: gary.sawhney@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2003
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: Asian American
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
President & CFO Co-Founder, NCIAP People s Medical Care (https-//nciap.org/) (Non-
Profit Medical Care Services for the Uninsured and Under-insured). Serving for 15 years
uninsured and under insured people who have not seen doctor in their lifetime. It s a great
honor to be a cofounder of NCIAP People s Medical Care.
I'm involved with habitat of Orange County.
I am working with religious Sikh and Hindu temples.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Orange County Planning Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have masters in life sciences and mba in finance.
I have some ideas what can be done which can improve the life of Orange County residence.
I am cofounder of Nclap.org which serves NC community for last 13 years without health
insurance or under insured.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I just retired and wants to give back to the community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
With background of Indian origin and Sikh believes can help and add the value to the board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Parks and Recreation Council
34
Page 2 of 3 Gary Sawhney
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have masters in life sciences and mba in finance.
I have some ideas what can be done which can improve the life of Orange County residence.
I am cofounder of Nclap.org which serves NC community for last 13 years without health
insurance or under insured.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I just retired and wants to give back to the community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
With background of Indian origin and Sikh believes can help and add the value to the board.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Agricultural Preservation Board
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I hold M.Sc in Agriculture and volunteer in the Land Devp committee with Triangle Land
Conservancy-with loving env, I believe my background and exp can help the board to navigate
the issues.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Agri and environmental are the backbone of this country, Schooling, serving and loving the
nature can help the board to make it happen.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I am born and raised in India, I did my M.Sc from the Indian Agri University. in NCIAP clinic we
serve all Americans irrespective of the race, color and gender.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I am deeply grateful to serve NCIAP founded on compassion, with a commitment to serve those
most in need. I have always believed in serving and helping others. Because in the end, it is not
what we achieve for ourselves rather it is what we do for others! This belief motivated me to lay
the foundation for NCIAP with others. With knowing the issues and working with patients closely
can help the board on day to day issues.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Every single call I get from someone asking for help to be seen at the clinic reminds me of what
this clinic provides to our community. Since co-founding NCIAP fifteen years, I have served as
a CFO for NCIAP. To serve is my goal.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I will remain steadfast in our mission to treat every patient with dignity and respect. Being a
minority, I know that how others feel about it.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
35
Page 3 of 3 Gary Sawhney
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
With Master s in Agri and exp have made me to serve on the board. Working on Land Devp
committee with Triangle Land Conservancy can help the board to navigate day to day issues.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have always believed in serving and helping others. Because in the end, it is not what we
achieve for ourselves rather it is what we do for others! This belief motivated me to lay the
foundation for NCIAP with others and serving 65,000 patients for last 15 years.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
This is most important issue facing this country to treat everyone equally. I am that man who
can do that!
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
Applied for Planning Board and Parks and Recreation Council 8/7/2024 9:36:27 AM
Applied for Ag. Preservation Board, Board of Health, and Commission for the
Environment 2/17/2026 4:24:17 PM
This application was current on: 2/17/2026 4:24:17 PM Date Printed: 2/19/2026
36
Page 1 of 3 Ryan Sheehy
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Dr. Ryan Sheehy
Name Called:
Home Address: 1017 Grey Flint PI.
Mebane NC 27302
Phone: 508-283-0652
Email: ryansheehy13@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2020
Township of Residence: Cheeks
Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Formerly UNC Pharmacology Department Graduate Education Executive Committee, NC
DNA Day Ambassador, Science Outreach Mentor
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Specialized Knowledge in Alzheimer's Disease and Behavioral Neuroscience:
I earned my PhD in pharmacology from UNC Chapel Hill. I studied the effects of novel small
molecule therapeutics on Alzheimer's Disease progression as well as the process of adult
neurogenesis. My research background in Alzheimer's Disease is particularly relevant to
Orange County's growing aging population. As North Carolina continues to see a rise in
Alzheimer's diagnoses, I can provide informed guidance on brain health initiatives, long-term
care quality, and the responsible use of pharmacological interventions for neurodegenerative
conditions. Furthermore, I was also interested in studying how various stimuli and interventions
affected adult neurogenesis and behavioral response during my PhD. My understanding of
adult neurogenesis, how the brain adapts and repairs over time, and behavior also offer
valuable perspectives for considering behavioral health, prevention strategies, and the long-
term biological effects of environmental and social stressors on our residents.
Scientific Expertise:
As a PhD-trained pharmacologist, I bring a strong foundation in the biochemical and
physiological processes that shape public health outcomes. My professional experience
enables me to critically evaluate preclinical data, clinical data, toxicological findings, and
pharmaceutical evidence with the rigor required of a rule-making body. Just as importantly, I am
skilled at translating complex scientific information into clear, actionable policy, helping ensure
that the Boards€TMs decisions are both evidence-based and accessible to the Orange County
community.
37
Page 2 of 3 Ryan Sheehy
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
Beyond my scientific training, I am deeply committed to the health and well-being of my
neighbors. I am excited by the opportunity to use my training and expertise to help my
neighbors. I view public health as the intersection of sound science and shared responsibility. I
am eager to contribute my analytical skills to the Board's work, from environmental health
oversight to addressing substance use and opioid-related harms. My goal is to support
thoughtful, data-driven governance that protects our most vulnerable populations while helping
Orange County remain a leader in effective, forward-looking public health policy.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My participation would broaden the range of perspectives on the Board by adding a Research
and Development/Basic Science lens grounded in translational science. While clinical
experience is essential to public health decision-making, my background as a PhD-trained
pharmacologist allows me to evaluate emerging evidence at its source by assessing data
quality, biological mechanisms, and long-term implications before findings are incorporated into
clinical guidance. I bring particular expertise in neuro-resilience, toxicology, and
pharmacological impact, enabling thoughtful consideration of how policies affect brain health,
aging, and vulnerability across the lifespan. This perspective would complement existing
expertise on the Board and strengthen evidence-informed, forward-looking public health
governance in Orange County.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Opioid Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Evidence-Based Evaluation of Treatment Modalities:
With a PhD in pharmacology, I bring a high level of technical literacy to the committee's primary
task: reviewing and scoring grant applications for treatment and recovery programs. My
background allows me to critically evaluate whether proposed interventions are grounded in
sound pharmacological science. I can serve as a technical resource for the committee when
vetting the efficacy of new clinical programs like the Lantern Project or the PORT Team,
ensuring that county funds are directed toward the most effective, life-saving strategies.
Intersection of Neurogenesis & Recovery:
My doctoral research on adult neurogenesis provides a unique scientific perspective on
addiction and recovery. Understanding the brain's capacity for repair and neuroplasticity is
essential when discussing long-term recovery outcomes and the biological impacts of sustained
opioid use. This expertise allows me to advocate for harm reduction and recovery supports that
recognize addiction as a complex neurobiological condition, helping to reduce stigma and
promote programs that support long-term brain health and cognitive restoration.
Strategic Management of Public Funds:
I am committed to ensuring that Orange County's settlement funds are utilized with maximum
accountability. My experience in academic research has trained me to manage complex data
and prioritize resources based on measurable outcomes. I am eager to help the committee host
annual community meetings and report back to the public on the tangible impacts of our
investments in prevention and education.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I'm applying for this committee because the opioid crisis isn t just a research interest for me; it's
personal. Watching my sister struggle with addiction is exactly what pushed me to get my PhD
in pharmacology and study how the brain can heal itself. I've seen firsthand how confusing the
treatment system can be for families, and I want to use my background to make sure Orange
County is spending this settlement money on programs that actually work. I want to bridge the
38
Page 3 of 3 Ryan Sheehy
gap between high-level science and real-world recovery to help our community move past the
stigma and focus on evidence-based ways to save lives.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
My participation would contribute a unique technical and personal perspective that bridges the
gap between scientific research and community lived experience. While many board members
represent law enforcement or social services, I provide a Science of Addiction viewpoint,
focusing on how substances like fentanyl analogs physically alter brain chemistry and
respiratory function. This allows me to evaluate the medical necessity and pharmacological
effectiveness of proposed treatment programs with a level of rigor that ensures settlement
funds are spent on truly evidence-based solutions.
Furthermore, my background in neurogenesis adds a specialized focus on the brain s capacity
for repair, offering a perspective on long-term recovery that prioritizes cognitive health.
Combined with my personal experience navigating the addiction of a family member, I can
advocate for programs that are scientifically sound yet compassionate and accessible. This
blend of academic expertise and personal empathy ensures the committee's decisions reflect
both the cutting edge of pharmacology and the practical realities facing Orange County families.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 2/10/2026 2:50:01 PM Date Printed: 2/16/2026
39
Page 1 of 2 Erin Sley
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Erin Sley
Name Called:
Home Address: 8505 Wilkerson Rd.
Cedar Grove NC 27231
Phone: 850-933-4881
Email: eringsley@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2018
Township of Residence: Cedar Grove
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Female
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
I am a recent graduate of the UNC epidemiology and maternal and child health
department - so I have been involved with the UNC community for over 8 years now. Last
year, I began volunteering with TABLE as time has allowed. I have also been a member
of the Society for Epidemiologic Research and Society for Pediatric and Perinatal
Epidemiologic Research.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
NA
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have a background in communication/mass media studies and recently graduated with a MPH
in maternal and child health and a PhD in epidemiology from UNC. I am currently a postdoctoral
fellow focusing on international nutritional interventions for women of reproductive age. I started
my career as a middle school math teacher and, 5 years later, pivoted to public health research
due to the disparities I observed in the classroom. My community involvement as a teacher
frames the way I assess public health issues. It helps me identify community priorities and
search for solutions that are most practical and helpful to the community. My epidemiological
training allows me to dig deeper into the root causes of community health issues and
strengthens my ability to assess the effectiveness of solutions created to address such issues.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have been looking for ways to contribute to my local community and the Orange county board
of health seems like a really neat way to do so. I have attended a couple of meetings this year
and I really appreciate how tangible the boards€TMs desire to address local needs is. Throughout
my time at UNC, I was trained on how to most efficiently identify and address community health
needs. I have gained experience doing this through national and international research
experiences and I would love to have the opportunity to contribute to such efforts at the local
level.
40
Page 2 of 2 Erin Sley
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
From my experiences in the classroom to working with international research teams, I have had
the opportunity to work with an incredibly diverse and driven group of folks who aim to improve
health outcomes, often in resource limited areas. I have learned how to listen to all ideas closely,
and with an open mind. I have found that the best solutions do not often come from one person,
but through collaboration with experts across multiple fields. I believe that bringing this
perspective to the table encourages me to embrace diversity in viewpoints and find creative
solutions that often incorporate multiple viewpoints.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 3/26/2026 11:00:53 AM Date Printed: 4/1/2026
41
Page 1 of 2 Matthew Sprenkle
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Matthew Sprenkle
Name Called:
Home Address: 109 Shadowood Dr. Unit H
Chapel Hill NC 27514
Phone: 336-528-8510
Email: matthewsprenkle10@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2024
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: C.H. City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: Hispanic
Age Range: 18-34
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Currently assist Habitat for Humanity at Weaver Grove and backup the Ronald McDonald
House.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My bachelors of psychology/biology in tandem with my background in healthcare via dental
assisting makes me eligible for this role.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to become more involved with my community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Being hispanic has shown me that small differences in color and culture can shift viewpoints.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Board of Social Services
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My specialization in mental health first aid and my bachelors in psychology/biology has given
me knowledge of the underlying mental health issues across the county in underserved
populations.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to be a part of something bigger and join the community.
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Page 2 of 2 Matthew Sprenkle
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Being hispanic has shown me that small differences in color and culture can shift viewpoints.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Adult Care Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
My specialization in mental health first aid and my bachelors in psychology/biology has given
me knowledge of the underlying mental health issues across the county in underserved
populations.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to be a part of something bigger and join the community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I want to be a part of something bigger and join the community.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 12/13/2025 11:44:46 AM Date Printed: 12/15/2025
43
Page 1 of 2 Gary West
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Gary West
Name Called:
Home Address: 602 Lake Hogan Farm Rd.
Chapel Hill NC 27516-4330
Phone: 919-360-1034
Email: grwatlanta@yahoo.com
Year of OC Residence: 2003
Township of Residence: Chapel Hill
Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 60+
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Not current involved. I taught classes on a range of issues with and Peer Learning and
Chapel Hill based NGO. It closed a couple of years ago after the death of its President.
Interested no in becoming more involved in community activities.
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
am not currently serving on any of the boards, nor have I ever served before.
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I was a CDC staff member for 34 years and worked domestically in multiple states and
internationally in multiple countries mostly Asia. Served as FHI 360's Vice President for
Research for 12 years. FHI 360 is a Durham-based NGO. I have a masters in Public
Management and Health Care Systems. I have authored or co-authored many scientific
publications focused on public health.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I had a long career in public health focused domestically and internationally and on many
issues. I worked domestically in multiple states and internationally in many countries I am still
deeply committed to public health goals and a major proponent of community involvement in
decision making on public health issues.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have long experience in facing many public health issues and in designing and implementing
programs and research. Just a few examples including participating as an epidemiologist on
smallpox eradication in Bangladesh, measles elimination in the U.S., community planning for
HIV prevention in the U.S. My broad experience and direct personal experience will help other
board members gain deep understanding of issues.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
44
Page 2 of 2 Gary West
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 1/26/2026 11:30:58 AM Date Printed: 1/28/2026
45
Page 1 of 2 James Wheeler
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. James Wheeler
Name Called:
Home Address: 2926 Little River Dr.
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 310-801-5841
Email: jameswheeler.2009@gmail.com
Year of OC Residence: 2024
Township of Residence: Little River
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: White
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Member of various nursing organizations
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
None
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
Over 20 years working in healthcare. 15 years working as a nurse. Over four years working in
nursing leadership.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to improve health literacy and advocacy in the community.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have lived all over the country and have experienced various opportunities and viewpoints in
my career.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
College educated with MBA. Have adopted pets from shelters since 2014.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
As above.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
Provide a unique perspective to help with animal rights and advocacy.
46
Page 2 of 2 James Wheeler
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Commission for the Environment
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
As above.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I have a very strong interest in preserving our environment and educating regarding climate
change.
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I have a diverse education from living in LA and around the country.
Do you have any personal or business interest(s) that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 8/10/2024 5:55:51 PM Date Printed: 8/21/2024
47
Page 1 of 2 Randolph Wilson
Volunteer Application
Orange County Advisory Boards and Commissions
Name: Mr. Randolph Wilson
Name Called:
Home Address: 1315 Carolina Loop
Hillsborough NC 27278
Phone: 252-532-9302
Email: Randolp.hwilson96@yahoo.com
Year of OC Residence: 2024
Township of Residence: Hillsborough
Zone of Residence: County
Gender Identity: Male
Ethnic Background: African American
Age Range: 35-59
Community Activities/Organizational Memberships:
Quaker Community
Weaver Street Market Breakfast meeting
We Are a Poem: Poetry Night
Panel Discussion (The Strike)
Member of Peace and Justice Committee of Chapel Hill Friends
SW IT
Past Service on Orange County Advisory Boards:
N/A
Boards/Commissions applied for:
Board of Health
Please explain how your background, education and experience is relevant to this board
I have been through the struggles that the board is trying to address such as homelessness and
incarceration.
Please explain your reasons for wanting to serve on this board
I want to help bring new ideas to the board and help make the community better with different
ideas
How would your particpation on this board contribute to the diversity of viewpoints?
I can bring new ideas based on my experiences with homeless and incarceration that the other
board members have not experienced
Do you have any personal or business interest(s)that could create a conflict of interest
(either real or perceived) if you are appointed to this board?
Boards/Commissions appointments:
48
Page 2 of 2 Randolph Wilson
Other Comments:
This application was current on: 4/27/2025 4:11:47 PM Date Printed: 4/28/2025
49
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Board of Health
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Fourth Wednesday of every month Contact Person:Quintana Stewart&Jean Phillips-Weiner
Meeting Place: C.H.&Hillsborough Health Depts.(alternating) Contact Phone: 919-245-2411
Positions: 11 Length:3 years Terms: 3
Description: The Board of Health is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory body for the Health Department and is charged to protect
and promote the public health of Orange County.The Board is mandated by state law and is composed of professionals
representing specified health-related fields in addition to several at-large members.
Dr. Lee Pickett
1 First Appointed: 09/17/2019
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 05/16/2023
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: Expiration: 06/30/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: Veterinarian Number of Terms: 2
Dr. Brian Crandell
2 First Appointed: 10/06/2020
Gender Identity: Male Township: Eno Current Appointment: 04/15/2025
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Pharmacist Number of Terms: 2
Dr. Rachel Royce
3 First Appointed: 11/01/2022
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 05/16/2023
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2026
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Citizen/Commissioner Appointment Number of Terms: 1
Dr. (Ph.D.) Shielda Rodgers
4 First Appointed: 05/14/2020
Gender Identity: Female Township: Eno Current Appointment: 05/16/2023
Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2026
Age Range: 60+ Special Repr: Nurse Number of Terms: 2
VACANT
5 First Appointed:
Gender Identity: Township: Current Appointment:
Ethnic Background: Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: Special Repr: Optometrist Number of Terms:
Dr. Alison Stuebe
6 Chair First Appointed: 06/18/2019
Gender Identity: Female Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 05/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: Special Repr: Citizen/commissioner appointment Number of Terms: 2
Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 1
50
Board and Commission Members
And Vacant Positions
Board of Health
Meeting Times: 7:00 pm Fourth Wednesday of every month Contact Person:Quintana Stewart&Jean Phillips-Weiner
Meeting Place: C.H.&Hillsborough Health Depts.(alternating) Contact Phone: 919-245-2411
Positions: 11 Length:3 years Terms: 3
Tony Whitaker
7 Vice-Chair First Appointed: 10/05/2021
Gender Identity: Male Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 05/07/2024
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Professional Engineer Number of Terms: 2
Dr. Natalicio Serrano
8 First Appointed: 02/17/2026
Gender Identity: Male Township: Chapel Hill Current Appointment: 02/17/2026
Ethnic Background: Hispanic Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2027
Age Range: 18-34 Special Repr: Citizen/Commissioner Appointment Number of Terms:
Dr. Davia Nickelson
9 First Appointed: 09/19/2023
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 04/15/2025
Ethnic Background: African American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: 35-59 Special Repr: Dentist Number of Terms: 1
Dr Aparna Jonnal
10 First Appointed: 06/18/2019
Gender Identity: Female Township: Hillsborough Current Appointment: 04/15/2025
Ethnic Background: Asian American Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 06/30/2028
Age Range: Special Repr: Physician Number of Terms: 3
Earl McKee
11 First Appointed: 12/01/2025
Gender Identity: Male Township: Little River Current Appointment: 12/01/2025
Ethnic Background: White Residency Req: At-Large Expiration: 12/31/2026
Age Range: Special Repr: B.O.C.C. Number of Terms:
Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 2
51
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Quintana Stewart&Jean Phillips
Board of Health Contact Phone: 919-245-2411
Mrs. Sandra Okeke Bates
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/11/2024
Ethnic Background: African American Township: Cheeks
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits
Also Serves On: Adult Care Home and Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee
Christian Bergevin
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/02/2026
Ethnic Background: White Township: Eno
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Dr. Ann Brady
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 01/21/2026
Ethnic Background: White Township: Bingham
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. David Colston
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/16/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Bingham
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Mr. Matt Epstein
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 03/12/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: Hillsborough Town Limits
Also Serves On:
Dr. Timothy Ives
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 11/20/2024
Ethnic Background: White Township: Bingham
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 1 of 3
52
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Quintana Stewart&Jean Phillips
Board of Health Contact Phone: 919-245-2411
Ms. Victoria Menz
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 08/08/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cheeks
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On: Opioid Advisory Committee
Ms. Rhonda Patterson
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 06/23/2025
Ethnic Background: Other Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On: Animal Services Advisory Board
Dr. Chris Ringwalt
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 06/26/2025
Ethnic Background: White Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: Town of Hillsborough
Also Serves On: Opioid Advisory Committee
Mr. Gary Sawhney
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/17/2026
Ethnic Background: Asian American Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Dr. Ryan Sheehy
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 02/10/2026
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cheeks
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: Town of Mebane City Limits
Also Serves On:
Erin Sley
Gender Identity: Female Date Applied: 03/26/2026
Ethnic Background: White Township: Cedar Grove
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 2 of 3
53
Applicant Interest Listing by Board Name and by Applicant Name
Contact Person: Quintana Stewart&Jean Phillips
Board of Health Contact Phone: 919-245-2411
Mr. Matthew Sprenkle
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 12/13/2025
Ethnic Background: Hispanic Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 18-34 Zone of Residence: C.H.City Limits
Also Serves On:
Gary West
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 01/26/2026
Ethnic Background: White Township: Chapel Hill
Age Range: 60+ Zone of Residence: Carrboro City Limits
Also Serves On:
Mr. James Wheeler
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 08/10/2024
Ethnic Background: White Township: Little River
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On: Animal Services Hearing Panel Pool
Mr. Randolph Wilson
Gender Identity: Male Date Applied: 04/27/2025
Ethnic Background: African American Township: Hillsborough
Age Range: 35-59 Zone of Residence: County
Also Serves On:
Thursday,April 2,2026 Page 3 of 3
54
ORANGE COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
ANNUAL REPORT AND WORK PLAN
Name of Board/Commission: Board of Health
Report Period: January 2025-December 2025
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) appreciates the dedication of all
volunteers on Orange County boards and commissions and asks each body to
complete an Annual Report and Work Plan. This document will inform the BOCC of the
activities each board/commission has conducted over the past year and detail a plan for
future activities. These activities should be consistent with the board/commission's
assigned charge and the goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan (Strategic
Plan). General information about the Strategic Plan is available here.
Person to address the BOCC, title, and contact information: Tony Whitaker, Chair,
twhitaker5ll@gmaii.com
Primary staff contact: Quintana Stewart, Health Director— ext. 2412
1. How many times per month does this board/commission meet, including any special
meetings and subcommittee meetings?
Board meets once monthly except for July and December. Committee meetings
resumed in September 2023. The committees meet at a minimum quarterly, with
most choosing to meet bi-monthly. There are currently four committees. The
committees are Access to Care, Behavioral Health, Connections to Community
Support, and an Ad Hoc Committee on Well Rules.
2. Please briefly describe this board/commission's assigned charge and
responsibilities. Board-specific Policies and Procedures documents, which detail the
charge and responsibilities for each board/commission, are available here.
The Board of Health is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory body (NCGS
130A-39(a) (powers and duties of the boards of health) and NCGS 130A-24
(appeals), for the health department and is charged to protect and promote the
public health of Orange County.
Page 1 of 5
55
3. What are your board/commission's most important accomplishments during the
report period?
• March 2025 — The BOH approved a resolution drafted by the Behavioral Health
Committee recognizing the harms of screens and social media to youth mental
health and encouraging community members to educate themselves and their
families.
• October 2025 — The BOH approved a resolution drafted by the Access to Care
Committee recognizing that the NC General Assembly has charged the health
department with providing healthcare services to the most vulnerable and
disavowing the presence of law enforcement in the Orange County Health
Department, as it prevents vulnerable community members from accessing
needed services.
• October 2025 — The BOH approved a resolution drafted by the Connections to
Community Support Committee recognizing housing as a public health issue and
encouraging local governments to incorporate certain public health approaches to
increasing the affordable housing supply in their upcoming land use plan revisions.
• During the Spring and Summer, the Access to Care Committee sponsored a
photovoice project to learn more from vulnerable community members, including
individuals who have experienced incarceration, who are living unsheltered, and
with limited English proficiency, about their experiences accessing healthcare
services.
• Throughout the year, committees held educational sessions with various subject
matter experts to help inform planning and prioritization.
4. Please list any specific tasks, events, or functions performed or sponsored annually.
➢ Community Health Assessment — Conducted every 4 years; 2023
Assessment submitted to NC DHHS in March 2024
➢ Financial Reports and Billing Dashboards — Quarterly Review
➢ Budget — Annual Review
➢ Outside Agency Funding Request — Annual Review
➢ Alliance Annual Report — Annual Review
➢ Policy Review— Annual Review
➢ Communicable Disease Report — Annual Review
➢ Child Fatality Report — Annual Review
➢ Tobacco Prevention Program — Annual Update
➢ Health Director Annual Performance Review
➢ BOH Reappointments — Chair and Vice Chair— Annual Review
➢ Healthy Carolinians of Orange County — Annual Update
➢ BOH Meeting Schedule — Annual Review
➢ Delinquent Accounts — Annual Review
➢ Immigrant and Refugee Health — Annual Update
Page 2 of 6
56
5. Describe this board/commission's activities/accomplishments in carrying out the
goals identified in the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the
Strategic Plan is available here.
o Environmental Protection and Climate Action — Promote sustainability and
resiliency across the County and collaborate with our partners to activate our
community, protect and preserve our natural resources, and reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
o The Board's ad hoc committee has been reviewing the Health
Department's groundwater protection program to consider the
science around the current well rules and ensure that the rules are
equitable while ensuring safe groundwater for all. The committee is
currently deciding how to proceed in terms of revising the rules
related to the outcome of a recent adjudication case.
o Healthy Community — Increase equitable access to care and social safety net
programming to promote the physical, social, and mental well-being of our
community.
o The Board of Health is the primary policy-making and adjudicatory
body for the Health Department and is charged with protecting and
promoting the public health of Orange County residents.
o The Board is sponsoring a Photovoice project, allowing Orange
County residents to submit photographs detailing challenges that
they face in accessing healthcare. So far, the Board has heard from
individuals who have experienced incarceration, individuals who are
living unsheltered, and individuals with limited English proficiency.
The results are helping inform changes at the Health Department to
improve their services and outreach.
o Housing for All — Promote equitable and accessible housing and address
housing disparities through policies, partnerships, and collaboration to create a
thriving community
o The Board approved a resolution recognizing housing as a public
health issue and encouraging local governments to incorporate
specific public health approaches to increasing affordable housing
supply in their land use plans.
o Multi-modal Transportation — Collaborate with our regional partners to expand,
integrate%onnect, and provide accessible public transportation options.
o The Board heard from Vision Zero: Chapel Hill about their efforts to
improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists and reduce traffic
fatalities in Chapel Hill to zero by 2030.
o Public Education/Learning Community — Enhance and maintain quality school
operations and infrastructure and cultivate lifelong learning.
o The Board approved a resolution on the potential negative impact of
excessive screen use and social media on youth mental health. In
this resolution, the Board encouraged local school systems to
review their school cell phone policies to promote youth mental
health.
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o Diverse and Vibrant Economy — Foster an environment that attracts and
retains sustainable and diverse businesses and visitors, employment
opportunities and diversifies our tax base.
o The Board hears regular updates from Environmental Health
Services about their work maintaining healthy restaurant and lodging
services and clean swimming pools. Environmental Health Services
also provides permitting, which encourages development.
6. Describe any collaboration between this board/commission and other boards and
commissions.
The Health Director serves as the designee for several Board activities and
collaborative initiatives. The Board receives monthly updates via the Health
Director's Report, which shows meetings, presentations, and other
activities completed each month. Some of the local boards and governing
bodies that the Board of Health/Health Department have worked with
during this reporting period include:
o BOCC
o Alliance
o Carrboro Town Council
o Chapel Hill Town Council
o Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education
o DEAPR
o Family Success Alliance
o Healthy Carolinians of Orange County
o Hillsborough Board of Commissioners
o Opioid Advisory Committee
o Justice Advisory Council
o Orange County Partnership for Young Children
o Orange County Schools Board of Education
➢ Other Boards that BOH members sit on:
o CHCCS School Health Advisory Council (SHAC)
o North Carolina Dental Society
o North Carolina Dental Society Political Action Committee
o Old North State Dental Society Student Affairs Committee
o SNDA CAARES Dental Clinic
o Board of Directors for Nonprofit After the Rain
o Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board
o Orange Partnership (former Board member, Keith Bagby, served as
Chair)
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7. Identify any activities this board/commission expects to carry out in 2026 that are
related to the Orange County Strategic Plan. General information about the Strategic
Plan is available If applicable, please list any fiscal impact (i.e., funding, staff
time, other resources) associated with these proposed activities.
o Environmental Protection and Climate Action - Promote sustainability and
resiliency across the County and collaborate with our partners to activate our
community, protect and preserve our natural resources, and reduce greenhouse
gas emissions.
o The Board's ad hoc committee will continue reviewing the Health
Department's groundwater protection program and make
recommendations for how to proceed in terms of revising the rules
related to the outcome of a recent adjudication case.
o Healthy Community - Increase equitable access to care and social safety net
programming to promote the physical, social, and mental well-being of our
community.
o The Board is planning to continue their Photovoice project, allowing
Orange County residents to submit photographs detailing challenges
that they face in accessing healthcare. While the first round of
photos were collected in collaboration with certain vulnerable
populations, the next phase will be open to all residents of Orange
County. This will help inform planning for future projects and ensure
the needs and values of the community are represented in future
work. This project will involve staff time and a small budget (-$1.5k).
o Housing for All - Promote equitable and accessible housing and address
housing disparities through policies, partnerships, and collaboration to create a
thriving community.
o The Board will continue to learn about housing issues and ways that
they can be helpful in promoting affordable housing as a public
health issue.
o Multi-modal Transportation - Collaborate with our regional partners to expand,
integrate%onnect, and provide accessible public transportation options.
o Nothing planned at this time.
o Public Education/Learning Community - Enhance and maintain quality school
operations and infrastructure and cultivate lifelong learning.
o The Board will continue to promote excessive screen time and youth
mental health as an area of concern and may seek to collaborate with
the school systems to promote National Screen-Free Week in May.
o Diverse and Vibrant Economy - Foster an environment that attracts and
retains sustainable and diverse businesses and visitors, employment
opportunities and diversifies our tax base.
o Nothing planned at this time.
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8. What concerns or emerging issues does this board/commission anticipate for the
upcoming year that it plans to address or wishes to bring to the BOCC's attention?
• Capacity of current public health workforce to provide services to residents
if Medicaid Expansion is discontinued.
• Capacity of current public health workforce to provide services to Medicaid
eligible residents if private practice providers limit/eliminate Medicaid
patients due to reduction in Medicaid reimbursement rates.
• Sustainability of Opioid Mitigation Strategies beyond use of Opioid
Settlement Funds.
• Mental health resources in the community, especially a lack of diverse
mental health providers.
• Vaping among young people.
• Potential health risks of high levels of screen time in children and
teenagers.
• Affordable housing and homelessness.
• Concerns about access to public health resources in light of immigration
enforcement and fear of their presence at healthcare facilities, including
the Health Department.
• Concerns about changes to the public health ecosystem (e.g., rollbacks to
fluoridation, rollbacks to vaccination requirements, changes in CDC
leadership and infrastructure, cuts to program funding including SNAP and
Medicaid, etc.).
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