Union County Social Services Eligibility Specialist Michael Evola has been appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper to serve on the North Carolina Statewide Independent Living Council. Evola knows firsthand the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities. A decade ago, Evola was diagnosed with a brain tumor that led to hearing loss. It ignited a fire within him to advocate for societal change to better accommodate individuals with disabilities. This realization sparked a passionate commitment to advocacy, culminating in his recent statewide appointment. He also serves on the NC Council for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing.

Evola was formally sworn into his new role on Tuesday, April 2, by Clerk to the Board of Commissioners Lynn West. Janet Payne, Human Services Executive Director, and Ashley Lantz, Social Services Director, joined him to celebrate the occasion. 

"I am honored to be given this opportunity to serve the people of North Carolina and advocate for disabled folks like myself," Evola said. "If we as a society are purposeful in eliminating barriers and creating a more equitable and accessible world, then you will see how people with disabilities can live as independently as those with none."

Evola stands ready to embark on this new chapter. Learn more about the NC Statewide Independent Living Council's initiatives at nc-silc.org.

Michael Evola was formally sworn into his new role on Tuesday, April 2, by Clerk to the Board of Commissioners Lynn West.


Michael Evola in the Board of County Commissioners room with the Clerk, Human Services Director and Social Services Director.