The Alamance-Burlington Board of Education selected Elon University professor Eric Hall to fill a vacant seat.
At a school board meeting this week, eight candidates looking to take over the vacancy were given a few minutes to make their case.
While board members said there were several strong applicants, Hall won them over. He's a professor of exercise science, assistant provost for scholarship and creative activity, and director of undergraduate research.
“No matter what the path is that our students are looking for, for the future, I want to make sure that they're ready for it. I want to make sure, whether it's for the workforce, the career, the schooling, whatever it is that they need to do," Hall said. "I am in education because I value the student. I value creating environments so that all students can be successful.”
Hall has lived in Alamance County for 25 years, and has two children at Elon Elementary School.
Some board members had also considered former North Carolina Representative Ricky Hurtado for the job, who several speakers praised during the public comment portion of the meeting.
But ultimately, the board voted 4-2 to appoint Hall to the vacant seat. His term will expire in December 2026.
Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.