Michael is a committed community leader and passionate public servant with a comprehensive and substantial record of service, reflecting his dedication and willingness to put service above self. Michael has worked for and volunteered with our local and state government and multiple nonprofit organizations.
Michael has served the people of our community, representing his generation while simultaneously working to help improve the community for all residents. Michael feels obligated to be in the room as an advocate, taking what actions he can today to be a positive force for planned progress in our community for tomorrow.
Michael has consistently shown up and has done the work, advocating for the people who call our community home, with the belief that we should strive for a community where everyone has the opportunity not just to survive but to thrive. Michael also belives that young people like himself are not just the leaders of tomorrow but also the leaders of today.
In 2013, Michael was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma, a brain tumor that would result in the loss of his hearing completely on his right side. As someone who suddenly became hard of hearing, Michael had to overcome many challenges, including relearning how to communicate and retain information.
When Michael lost his hearing, he quickly gained the realization that we as a society do not adequately accommodate those with disabilities as we should. Since then, Michael has been determined to change that and become an advocate for the disabled community.
Michael serves as a Governor-appointed Councilmember on the NC Council for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the NC Statewide Independent Living Council, initially appointed by Governor Roy Cooper in 2021 and 2024, respectively.
On these councils, Michael advocates for the rights of and improving existing or creating new services for people with disabilities. Michael advances the elimination of societal barriers, promotes equity and inclusion, and ensures that North Carolina is accessible to people of all abilities.
As a leader and advocate, Michael also wants to ensure that people with disabilities have opportunities to prosper for generations to come and that all are welcome to be active members of society. Michael believes that if we as a society are purposeful in eliminating barriers and creating a more equitable and accessible world, then people with disabilities can live as independently as those without.
As a Notary Public, Michael is a public officer of the State of North Carolina and serves a vital role in protecting residents and facilitating commerce for those conducting business throughout Union County.Â
Secretary of State Elaine Marshall initially appointed Michael in 2021, and he is serving his first five-year term. Michael takes pride in providing fair and unbiased service to the people.
Michael ensures that various documents are credible and honest, adhering to his statutory obligation to protect the public's interest. Michael offers his services free of charge. He considers his role to be a noble community service. The State authorizes Michael to perform acknowledgments, oaths and affirmations, and verifications or proofs, ensuring his clients receive the best service.