South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has announced the appointment of six individuals to lead recovery efforts in western North Carolina. These appointments include leaders for the newly established Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC) and the Division of Community Revitalization (DCR) within the Department of Commerce.

“Supporting western North Carolina is going to be an all-hands-on-deck initiative that requires a team with diverse experiences and skillsets,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am grateful to each of these leaders for prioritizing urgency, focus, transparency, and accountability as we work to rebuild the region.”

Matt Calabria will serve as Director of GROW NC. He previously served on the Wake County Board of Commissioners, focusing on education, public safety, housing affordability, and veteran homelessness.

Emily Williamson Gangi has been appointed Chief Deputy Director for GROW NC. A native of western North Carolina, she has played a key role in securing federal funding for high-speed internet access statewide by 2030.

Eliza Edwards will take on the role of Director of Community Partnerships for GROW NC. Her previous experience includes serving on the North Carolina Office of Strategic Partnerships and working with Governor Roy Cooper’s policy team.

Stephanie McGarrah has been named Deputy Secretary for DCR. She formerly served as Executive Director of the North Carolina Pandemic Recovery Office and worked with health care workforce shortages across the state.

Holly Jones will be Director of the Governor's Western North Carolina Office. Her background includes roles as Western Policy Advisor under then-Attorney General Josh Stein and various local government positions.

Jonathan Krebs is appointed as Western North Carolina Recovery Advisor. With two decades of experience in disaster recovery efforts since Hurricane Katrina, he brings expertise in restoring housing, infrastructure, and small businesses.