Exciting Leadership Additions to the Miss North Carolina Executive Board
Organization Update
We are excited to announce that Drew Mercer and Nishma Patel have been voted onto the Miss North Carolina Organization Executive Board as Associate Directors. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise in their respective fields bring new strengths to our leadership team, promising an exciting future for our organization.
Drew Mercer - Associate Director, Marketing
Drew Mercer steps into the role of Associate Director of Marketing with a wealth of experience in software development, project management, and innovative technology solutions. Drew has led numerous projects focusing on digital transformation and enterprise data analytics, working with global teams to enhance business processes through technology. He first joined the organization in 2009 as Vice President of the Miss Capital City, Miss Clayton, and Miss Cleveland Organization. Drew joined the State Committee in 2018, specializing in Web Development and Digital Program initiatives.
Nishma Patel - Associate Director, Legal Counsel
Nishma Patel, currently serving as legal counsel for the organization, will expand her role to include the title of Associate Director. Nishma is a seasoned civil litigation attorney with Holland & Knight in Charlotte, specializing in complex commercial and business litigation. Her legal expertise is complemented by a robust history of prosecuting felony domestic violence cases and other significant legal roles within the Wake County District Attorney’s Office.
Both Drew and Nishma have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to excellence in their fields, making them invaluable additions to our board. We look forward to their contributions and the fresh perspectives they will continue to bring to the Miss North Carolina Organization.
We invite you to join us in welcoming Drew and Nishma to their new roles. We are excited about the initiatives they will lead and encourage you to share your thoughts and ideas with them as they embark on this new journey.
About the Miss North Carolina Organization
As an official state preliminary associated with the Miss America Opportunity, the Miss North Carolina Organization (MNCO) is a part of the largest scholarship-providing organization for women worldwide. Promoting an emphasis on academics and communication skills, the MNCO is considered a launching pad for young women to further their academic and career goals. Taylor Loyd currently serves as Miss North Carolina 2023. Hanley House, crowned Miss North Carolina’s Teen 2023, became the first teen from North Carolina to win the national title as Miss America’s Teen 2024. Annika Schneider has been crowned by House and now serves as Miss North Carolina’s Teen 2023. For more information about volunteering or competing, please visit www.missnc.org.