Dr. Michael McElreath first encountered the Governor’s School experience as a student in South Carolina. The impact of his SC experience led him to 20 years of service to the NC Governor’s School (GS) – 11 years at Governor’s School East (GSE) (3 as a Social Science Instructor and 8 as Site Director), followed by 9 years as a member of the NC Governor’s School Foundation (GSF) board of directors.

During his time as Site Director at GSE, Michael was known as someone who worked tirelessly to foster a culture of creativity, scholarship, curiosity, and inclusivity. His leadership and dedication provided the organization and energy that created and sustained a well-run and impactful GS experience for all. Affectionately called “Dr. Mac” by the students, Michael always did his best to create an atmosphere of home away from home – a place where students felt free to be themselves and to dig deeply as they experienced the joy of growth and discovery. Michael also found ways to encourage and support many instructors and faculty leaders, helping them find their niche in the vibrant GSE learning community. Not surprisingly, when his time as Site Director ended, Michael generously shared his time and expertise to make sure the transition was seamless.

In addition to Michael’s hands-on work at GSE, he has been instrumental behind the scenes in ongoing fundraising efforts and has also been a valued expert voice on the GSF board of directors. In 2011, NC faced a budget crisis, and funding for GS was completely cut. Working with GSF and other alumni and friends of GS, Michael helped organize fundraising efforts to fund GS 2012. After state funding was mostly restored, Michael continued organizing, hosting, and supporting GSF’s ongoing fundraising efforts. In addition to his fundraising, Michael has also been a valuable resource to the GSF board as an expert on the GS experience and what GS needs from GSF, both as an advocacy group and an alumni association.

For those and many other reasons, the NC Governor’s School Foundation is proud to honor Michael McElreath as a Jim Hart Governor’s School Champion Award winner for 2024.