Appointment of New Deputy Secretary
RALEIGH – The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has named Dr. Melody Hunter-Pillion as its new deputy secretary for External Affairs, effective November 9. In her new role, Dr. Hunter-Pillion will manage several key divisions, including the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the Office of K-12 Education, Marketing and Communications, and the North Carolina Arts Council.
Professional Background
Secretary Pamela Cashwell expressed confidence in Dr. Hunter-Pillion’s capabilities, stating that her extensive background as a historian and storyteller, combined with her skills in communications and media relations, position her well for this leadership role.
Dr. Hunter-Pillion brings over two decades of experience in various fields such as media relations, storytelling, and higher education. Prior to her appointment, she served as the acting director of the Southern Oral History Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her previous roles include communications positions at the NC Office of State Human Resources, the Center for the Study of the American South at UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and Rex Healthcare. Additionally, she has worked as a news reporter for WTVD-ABC11 and PBS North Carolina.
Academic Credentials and Personal Background
Dr. Hunter-Pillion holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree in liberal studies from Duke University, and a PhD in American Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
In a statement regarding her new position, Dr. Hunter-Pillion expressed her enthusiasm for joining the department and collaborating with colleagues throughout North Carolina. She noted her commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s rich history and culture. As a native of Scotland County and the daughter of an educator, she feels honored to serve her home state in this capacity.
Source: N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
