May Update
Honoring Resilience: Mental Health, Teachers, Nurses, and Community Strength
This month, I am lifting up people in our community who show remarkable strength every day. When we engage in conversations as a community and come together to support one another, we all benefit.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Mental Health Initiatives
Addressing mental health care needs remains a top priority for me as your commissioner. During this Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to share two pieces of good news:
The BOCC approved the contract to purchase the land for the Orange County Crisis Diversion Facility. The new facility, which will offer a behavioral health urgent care unit for individuals aged four and older and a 16-bed crisis stabilization unit for adults, will be located near the Hillsborough campus of UNC Hospital. This facility aims to provide immediate support for those experiencing mental health crises. Learn more about these plans on the Orange County website.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Orange County offers many resources for people coping with mental health conditions. Whether you are newly diagnosed or ready to offer support for others, our local NAMI organization is a wonderful resource for everyone affected by a mental health condition. Learn more here. https://www.namioc.org
Hidden Voices: “How the Light Gets Gold” at the Eno Arts Mill Gallery
I had the privilege of attending “First Fridays” at Eno Arts Mill Gallery last month, which featured the opening of “How The Light Gets Gold.” This powerful exhibition features artwork by survivors of sexual violence, highlighting their journeys of healing and resilience. The event, open through May, 2025, is a collaboration between the Orange County Arts Commission and local nonprofit Hidden Voices, aiming to foster dialogue and understanding through art.
The entire gallery is transformed into a space of reflection and resilience, highlighting the lived experiences of survivors of sexual violence through storytelling and art. Our community’s commitment to supporting survivors through the arts is truly inspiring. Let’s continue to work together to build a more inclusive and supportive Orange County.
“How the Light Gets Gold” art exhibit is a powerful space of healing, art, and community in Orange County.
What made the evening even more special for me was meeting one of the featured artists who drove in from Forsyth County to be part of the event in person. She shared how honored she was to have her work shown in Orange County and spoke so highly of our community’s willingness to host something so meaningful and brave. Her gratitude was heartfelt, and it reminded me that when we create space for hard conversations and healing, we build something bigger than an art exhibit—we build trust and connection.
Acknowledgements of Service
Many of my sorority sisters, relatives, and close friends are teachers—and now my daughter, who just finished her freshman year at Queens University, is considering joining their ranks.
This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and I want to say thank you. To the teachers across Orange County—your patience, creativity, and deep commitment to our children mean more than words can express. You’re not just teaching—you’re shaping lives and building futures. I see your impact not only in the classroom, but throughout our entire community.
Last week was National Nurses Week, which holds special meaning for me. My younger sister, who passed away three years ago, became a nurse as her second career. I saw firsthand the passion and dedication she brought to her work. To our nurses—thank you for being the quiet strength so many of us lean on. Your skill, compassion, and resilience make a difference every single day.
We appreciate you. We need you. And we honor you—not just this week, but all year long.
Yours in service,
I was pleased to attend the State of the Community Address sponsored by the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce; I’m pictured here with Marilyn Carter, Susan Blount, Melissa McCullough, and Meghun Darab.
