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Second Vice President Candidates
Joshua Benfield
My name is Josh Benfield, and I am running for Second Vice President for NC APCO. I started my career in 911 in 2004 in Caswell County while working part-time with our county’s EMS department. I remained in Caswell until 2007 and at that time I began working for Rockingham County 911. While in Rockingham, I served as Telecommunicator and as Assistant Lead Telecommunicator until I left in 2015. I returned home to Caswell in 2017 as a Telecommunicator and moved up in the ranks to Database Coordinator to now as Operations Manager.
I am running for the position of Second Vice President because I believe that working together with our community and industry partners, we can finally be recognized as what we truly are, First Responders. I believe this will open many doors for our profession to finally be able to receive mental health benefits that other responders have available to them. I believe that working together across our region, state, and nation we can promote our profession and its ever-changing technology to better serve our communities. With the help of our amazing APCO Board, I will work to increase our membership numbers not only in our PSAPS but our partners across the state in Universities, Colleges, Airports and beyond to make sure that everyone has a voice in our organization.
I have been married to my wonderful wife Lindsay for the past 21 years and we have made our home in Pelham, NC with our 2 boys, Parker(18) and Brody(13). I am excited to be nominated for Second Vice President and if elected, I look forward to serving NC APCO with pride, dedication and commitment.
Jacob Butcher
My name is Jacob Butcher, and I began my career as a 9-1-1 police dispatcher for the City of Wasilla and Alaska State Troopers in 2006. Since beginning this career, I have dedicated myself to furthering professional development, improving the workplace, and advancing the needs of the industry wherever I have been able to find opportunity. I currently hold certifications in CTO, CTO Program Administration, Emergency Number Professional, Registered Public-Safety Leadership Program, CIT, and a variety of other programs. Having entered the ECC management role in 2019, I have since served as both Chair and Co-Chair for numerous local and State 9-1-1 advisory boards, successfully introduced and pursued legislation, and continue to advocate for the reclassification of 9-1-1 telecommunicators into the protective services at the federal level.
Currently I serve the industry as the Assistant Director for the Raleigh-Wake Emergency Communications Center in North Carolina, and look forward to continuing my efforts in advocating for the personnel, technology, legislation and funding that will be required in our pursuit of a higher professional standard.
Samantha Dutch
Samantha Dutch, RPL, CPE, CMCP, is a distinguished professional in the field of emergency communications, with a career spanning over the last 16 years. Her journey began in 2008 when she entered the realm as a telecommunicator in Robeson County, NC. Displaying exceptional dedication and skills, she quickly advanced in her career, showcasing a remarkable commitment to public safety.
In 2015, Samantha accepted the role of Assistant Director at Scotland County Emergency Communications, where her leadership and expertise were evident. Her ability to navigate high-pressure situations and ensure effective communication became apparent, leading to her promotion to the Director position in 2021. Under her guidance, the agency continues to excel in providing crucial emergency services to the community.
Samantha's passion for her work extends beyond her official duties. She has actively contributed to the development of the next generation of emergency communicators as an adjunct instructor for Richmond Community College's 911 Communications and Operations degree program.
Notably, Samantha is one of the few Certified Public-Safety Executives (CPEs) in North Carolina, adding a unique dimension to her impressive credentials. Recognized for her leadership qualities, Samantha has dedicated herself to advancing the field on a broader scale. For the past four years, she has served as the North Carolina APCO's Region E Ambassador, fostering collaboration and communication among emergency communication professionals.
Additionally, Samantha has volunteered on multiple committees for APCO International, demonstrating her commitment to the continuous improvement of industry standards.
Throughout her career, Samantha has become a respected figure in emergency communications, known for her unwavering dedication to public safety and her contributions to the education and professional development of future communicators. Her leadership and expertise have been a guiding force, ensuring the effective delivery of emergency services to the community.
Tangela Walker
In 2021, Tangela Walker began her career in emergency communications in Augusta, GA, as a Telecommunicator. She has held multiple career-progressive roles as a public safety professional throughout the years. Tangela’s inspirations of equal access and preparedness the “Now & Later” drives her goals to contribute to the mission of advancing NG911 technologies, enhancing and elevating emergency communications, and contributing to a stronger, more secure nation, driving positive change across the industry.
As a founding member of APCO’s Certified Public Safety Executives (CPE) program, Tangela’s involvement in local, state, and national initiatives has been expansive. She is an active member of APCO and NENA national organizations and local chapters. Tangela has enjoyed working on committees, volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House as a grant application reviewer for the United Way, serving on other committees, and participating in public education and community outreach initiatives.
Tangela is a Servant Leader and believes in the promises of diversity, inclusion, equality, and equity. Tangela enjoys networking, engaging other thought leaders, educating others about the importance of emergency communications, team building, and cultivating and growing leaders. Tangela is committed to professional development, remaining well-informed about the industry, national APCO, and NC APCO activities, collaborating with non-governmental organizations, valued team members, and partners, and supporting the growth of emergency services nationwide.
Of all the joys and accomplishments, having the opportunity to share, support, and lead has been one of her most incredible opportunities and privilege. In June 2021, Tangela became the Assistant Director of Durham Emergency Communications in Durham, NC. She is a wife, mother of two girls, and a bonus mom to one teen son and three adult children.
Chapter Treasurer
Dawn Anderson
My name is Dawn Anderson and I currently running for Treasurer of the NC APCO and it gives me great pride and privilege to stand before you to request my candidacy.
I pride myself on being a highly accomplished and dedicated professional who will exemplify the exact qualifications this position holds. I have a strong educational background, having graduated from Bennett College in the Class of 2007. In addition to my academic achievements, I have made significant contributions to various organizations throughout my career.
I served as the former chapter treasurer for both the Chi Gamma Chapter and Beta Nu Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. In these roles, I demonstrated exceptional financial management skills and maintained the highest standards of integrity. My professional experience includes almost 4 years of service as a Lead Telecommunicator for the Police and Public Safety Department at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. During my time in this role, I have efficiently handled emergency calls and effectively coordinated responses to ensure the safety of the campus community. Before my tenure at the university, I worked at the Guilford County Sheriff's Office for nearly nine years. In my position there, I was responsible for and maintained various leadership roles.
With my keen attention to detail and unwavering commitment to accuracy, I successfully maintained financial integrity for multiple organizations. My exceptional qualifications, combined with my extensive experience in financial management and public safety communications, make me, Dawn Anderson, an ideal candidate for the NC APCO. My dedication and thrive for success will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the organization for my area. For this I stand on always for my career and personal life daily.
- A leader must also be willing to learn themselves.
- In Leadership there is no I in TEAM.
- While working in this industry I have been introduced to the acronym, T.H.I.N.K. Asking oneself the following inquiries:
- Is it true?
- Is it helpful?
- Is it inspiring?
- Is it necessary?
- Is it kind?
T'airra Whitis
I am T’airra Whitis, a seasoned public safety communications and emergency management leader, and I am excited to seek the position of Treasurer with the North Carolina Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (NC-APCO). My career includes various roles within the telecommunications center and oversight in emergency management. I bring over a decade of experience ensuring effective communication and response strategies in high-pressure environments. I currently serve as the Airport Communications Center Manager at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), the second-largest airport in North Carolina. I previously served as the Manager of Emergency Management at Cone Health.
In addition to my professional accomplishments, I am currently progressing through APCO’s Registered Public-Safety Leader (RPL) program. I intend to use this program to obtain APCO certification for RDU's Communication Center’s training program. This initiative reflects my commitment to elevating every environment I lead, enhancing industry standards, and supporting the professional development of communication center staff.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY, where I am from, and a master’s degree in emergency management from Capella University. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in organizational development and change and a second master’s degree in human development. This academic journey underscores my dedication to continuous learning and growth within the field.
I have been a member of APCO since 2015 (when I started at Durham Emergency Communications Center). I am deeply committed to serving on the APCO board and contributing to the organization's mission of advancing public safety communications. With a track record of proven leadership and a relentless drive for excellence, I am eager to collaborate with fellow board members to shape the future of our industry and support the professional growth of APCO members.
Regional Ambassador - Region A
Ruth Barefoot
My name is Ruth Barefoot and I am employed at Pasquotank Camden Central Communications in Elizabeth City NC. I began my career in Williamsburg VA in 2000 with the Williamsburg VA Police Department Communications Division. After getting married I relocated to NC and started working at Currituck County Communication in 2005. I advanced to the position of Training Officer before leaving in 2018 to work in my hometown in Elizabeth City with Pasquotank-Camden Central Communication. While working for Pasquotank-Camden Central Communication I was fortunate to advance to Assistant Director. In 2023 I left Pasquotank County to try working with a travel dispatch company but quickly realized it was not the right fit for me. Fortunately a position opened up at my hometown center and I returned. I believe everything happens for a reason, I do not regret my decision to try the new avenue, and I believe it brought me back to where I needed to be on the front lines with my co-workers. I am thankful for my career and I hope to continue to be an asset to the 911 Industry. With 24 years of experience I hope to be part of the positive changes for our profession.
Regional Ambassadors - Region C
Jackie Ezzell
My Name is Jackie Ezzell, I was born and raised in Burgaw NC, in Pender County. I attended all levels of education in Pender and currently still reside in the county. I am employed with the Pender County Sheriff’s Office 911 Center. Currently I hold the title as 911 Director for the center, I was promoted to Director in 2018. I officially started my career in communications on July 1, 1991, with the Pender County Sheriff’s office and left my full-time status to part time status in 1999. Continuing my work in 911 at the part time status I chose to return to full time status with Pender in 2005 because my passion was in 911. I have filled the roll as line telecommunicator, trainer, shift supervisor, assistant director to my now current position as Director. In 1991 through my experience in 911 I chose to fulfil a longtime goal to become certified in Emergency services. I received my EMS certification in 1992 and am still currently certified as an AEMT with NC, and actively volunteer with Union Rescue Squad in Willard NC. I serve as 3rd Lt., Squad treasurer and Board of Directors. In my spare time away from 911 and EMS I love spending time with my parents, my siblings, nephew and nieces.