Our Board

Board Members not pictured: Norma Beam, Kitty Wilson, Elmer Macopson, Emily Roberts

Our Executive Leadership

Some leaders build organizations. Paula Swepson Avery builds movements. As the Executive Director and Founder of West Marion Inc., the first and only Black-led nonprofit in McDowell County, Paula has turned a bold vision into a lasting legacy. Her leadership isn’t just about running a nonprofit it’s about rewriting the narrative of equity, access, and opportunity. Under her guidance, West Marion Inc. has grown from a $100,000 annual budget in 2017 to $1.4 million in 2024, a testament to her strategic expertise in community-driven mobilization, systems change, and resource development. Paula’s ability to build deep, meaningful partnerships has earned the trust of funders, institutions, and, most importantly, the community she serves.

But what truly sets Paula apart is her unwavering belief in people, especially young people. She is relentless in helping the next generation recognize their strengths and envision what’s possible for their futures. Her leadership isn’t just seen, it’s felt in the lives she impacts and the systemic change she drives. A trusted voice in leadership and equity, Paula serves on multiple local and state-level boards, including Mountain BizWorks, Impact Health, MTCC Foundation Board, and the Foundation of Health and Leadership Institute. Her work continues to shape the future of McDowell County and beyond, proving that true leadership is about lifting others as you climb.

Thank You to Our Collaborative Partners