by Chris Hilburn-Trenkle
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work is pleased to welcome five new members to its Board of Advisors for the 2024–25 academic year.
The members, who were appointed to a two-year term, will help the School identify and achieve its goals as it works to advance equity, transform systems and improve lives.
We spoke with one of the newest Board members, Margaret Penn, to learn more about her passion for social work, her background and why she decided to join the Board. This transcript has been edited for clarity.
Can you tell me about your working background?
I’m a certified public accountant by trade. I graduated from UNC in 1983. I worked for what is now called Forvis Mazars Group for 30 years. I was a partner there for the last 10, 11 years I was there. Then I retired and started working with Weavercooke Construction as their chief financial officer, and I’ve been here for 10 years.
What made you passionate about social work?
I’ve done a lot of work with various nonprofits, including serving on various committees for the United Way of Greater High Point and Big Brothers Big Sisters. I have board of directors’ experience for Alcohol Drug Services, Inc., Hospice of the Piedmont, and the High Point Chamber of Commerce. I’ve always been involved, in my professional career, with affordable housing for those in need of housing.
What made you decide to join the School as a Board member?
My good friend Alice Washington is on the Board and I’ve known her for 30-plus years. She spoke highly of it and the work the School was doing. As I was winding down my other nonprofit commitments I thought this might be something I could be interested in and allow me to give back to UNC. I haven’t served in a volunteer capacity for UNC since I graduated.
Is there anything specific you’re hoping to accomplish on the Board?
Seeing what the School has done and how it influences the community and makes the community a better place, I want to better understand the interactions of how that works together and help with this connection between the School and the larger community.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you personally or professionally?
I’m a big sports fan. I love being active. I love giving back and helping others, and serving on this Board is a different avenue for me to be able to give back. I’m glad to do that, I want to help those less fortunate.
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