LINC Inc., a Wilmington-based nonprofit, recently announced the appointment of four new members to its board of directors: Dorian Cromartie, Lynn Fulton, Cindy Pershia and Miriam Thompson.

According to a news release, Leading Into New Communities (LINC) aims to educate and motivate youth "to make positive life choices and empowering men and women returning from incarceration to become productive members of the community. ... The addition of these accomplished community leaders reflects LINC’s continued growth and commitment to strengthening its programs, expanding community partnerships and building the resources needed to serve more individuals and families throughout the Cape Fear region."

Board chair Brenda Roberts stated in the release, “Each of these leaders brings a unique combination of professional expertise, community commitment, and passion for service. Their experience and connections will be invaluable as we continue to grow support for LINC’s programs and advance our fundraising efforts — including the Legacy Builders Campaign for the Hisan J. Polk Transformation Academy.”

The release included more information about the new board members:

• Thompson has been a criminal defense attorney in New Hanover County for 30 years and currently serves as a commissioner with Indigent Defense Services (IDS), where she dedicates significant time and energy toward improving legal representation for indigent defendants. "Beyond her professional work, Miriam has a long history of community service. She volunteers at St. James Episcopal Church, has participated in Lawyers for Literacy by helping elementary students develop reading skills, and has volunteered with the Boys & Girls Club," the release stated.
• Cromartie brings extensive experience in community engagement, organizing, and advocacy. Through his work with the North Carolina AFL-CIO, Dorian focused on union organizing and building collective power for working families. He currently serves as community engagement manager for the East with NC Child, "where he helps connect families and share their stories to promote positive change for children and communities. Dorian has also been actively involved with organizations including the NAACP, Northside Food Co-op and Cape Fear Community Land Trust," according to the release.
• Fulton is a retired educator whose career focused on improving educational opportunities for students across North Carolina. She taught special education, served as an administrator, and traveled throughout the state coaching principals in underserved rural schools to help improve educational outcomes and support student success. "Lynn continues her commitment to education and youth development through volunteer work in schools and contributions to Kids Making It. Her lifelong dedication to helping young people reach their full potential brings valuable perspective to LINC’s youth-focused programs," the release stated.
• Pershia is senior member services officer at State Employees’ Credit Union and brings extensive experience in financial stewardship, organizational leadership and community advocacy. "For the past six years, Cindy has served as Treasurer of the New Hanover County NAACP branch, helping ensure the organization remains financially healthy, organized, and compliant," according to the release. "She has also served as chair of the New Hanover County Commission on African American History, Heritage and Culture, leading efforts to preserve and promote African American history throughout the county."