Portia Grady, '14, and Erica Dixon, '10, have been appointed to the Alumni Association's Board of Directors at UNC Pembroke.

They will take office Thursday, July 1.

Dixon is a published writer/poet and art director. Her creative work has appeared in various literary publications in the United States, Canada and Europe. She graduated from UNCP with a bachelor's degree in psychology and holds a master's degree in creative writing, focusing on fiction and writing for stage and screen from Queens University of Charlotte.

"I look forward to serving UNCP in my capacity as a board member," she said.

Grady is the owner and chief executive officer of FRIENDS Upscale Comfort Food, a catering and mobile bartending company in Fayetteville. After earning her degree, she taught at a local elementary school in Robeson County before transitioning to corporate sales with Apple, Inc.

As a student, Grady was an active participant in several clubs and organizations, including New Student Orientation, Living Learning Community, Housing and Residence Life, Indianhead Yearbook, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

"My experience as a Brave shaped my desire to explore different career pathways and figure out the right fit for me, all while being encouraged and molded by the staff and faculty of UNCP. As a result, I've been able to fulfill my desire to serve people, give back to my community and pursue my passion as an entrepreneur." Serving on this board feels like I'm coming full circle and I am excited to be a part of it."

"We are so excited to add Portia and Erica to our diverse board of directors. They both bring a wide variety of experiences that will be served well as the board collaborates to meet strategic engagement goals," said Candace Langston, second vice president for the board.