March 15, 2024
Dear DataWorks NC partners, stakeholders, and friends,
We are thrilled to announce that Kenton Spencer has joined DataWorks NC as its new executive director.
“I am honored to serve the DataWorks team, the Board of Directors, and the community,” Kenton said. “My commitment, along with DataWorks, to racial equity drives me to amplify marginalized voices, bridge gaps among local stakeholders, and ensure that everyone is seen. I eagerly anticipate contributing to a more just and equitable society by collaborating with local organizations to create meaningful change.”
Kenton comes to DataWorks from the Hussman School of Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he is an adjunct faculty member teaching media law. He also brings a long and diverse set of experiences in legal research, policy development, advocacy, project management, auditing, and data analytics, including:
- A juris doctorate from the North Carolina Central School of Law, where he volunteered with NC Legal Aid and DataWorks on eviction defense
- Four years as a city councilmember in Laurinburg, North Carolina
- Seven years at UNC Health analyzing data privacy, physician compliance, and financial processes
- Nearly two decades as a financial controller across multiple different industries
- Participating in the Institute of Political Leadership Fellows Program
“I’m looking forward to Kenton leading DataWorks through its next phase,” said Marissa Mortiboy, chair of the DataWorks NC Board of Directors. “Kenton’s background includes the skills we need to grow into our next chapter, expand our capacity, and best serve the community’s data needs.”
Kenton began at DataWorks on March 11, working directly with outgoing executive director John Killeen to transition leadership of the organization.
“I feel blessed to have my time overlapping with Kenton’s, and to have a really thorough and collaborative orientation. It’s exciting to frame the next phase of DataWorks together like this,” said John.
Please join us in welcoming Kenton to the DataWorks NC community.
Sincerely,
DataWorks NC Board of Directors
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