Carla Stowe retired from the UNC School of Government after two decades of dedicated public service. Carla is widely recognized by attendees of the Community Development Academy. Click here to read more. 

Steve Osborne retired from the City of Concord after serving for 37 years in the planning, community and economic development industry. Click here to read more. 

Michael Johnson retired from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development Greensboro Field Office in April 2025, after serving for 29 years in various capacities in local and federal government. Click here to read more. 

Mellin Parker retired after dedicating 40 years of her career to Community, Housing and Economic Development programs. Click here to read more. 

Dan Kornelis retired from Forsyth County as their first director of the Community & Economic Development Department. Click here to read more. 

Dr. Lille Gray retired after serving more than 30 years in public service at the state, county and local levels. Click here to read more. 

Iris Payne retired as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Director for the North Carolina Department of Commerce. Click here to read more. 

Lucille Yancey, former NCCDA President, passed away at the age of 91. Click here to read more. 

Thank you Sarah Zinn for 9 years of service on the NCCDA Board. Click here to read more.