North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region reposted this
Press Release: Norris Tolson Joins the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce in Economic Development/Special Projects We are proud to announce that Norris Tolson has joined our team to spearhead Special Projects relating to Economic Development initiatives. With a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors, Tolson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this critical role. Tolson’s career is marked by significant leadership roles, including his tenure as Vice President of Special Projects and as the former CEO and President of the Carolinas Gateway Partnership, where he served from January 2016. Most recently, he was a senior advisor for economic development with the Williams Mullen law firm. His extensive background also includes serving as the President and CEO of the North Carolina Biotechnology Center from 2007 to 2014. Tolson’s contributions to public service are notable. He has served as the North Carolina Secretary of Commerce, the North Carolina Secretary of Transportation, and the North Carolina Secretary of Revenue from 2001 to 2007. In 1999, he chaired the North Carolina Hurricane Floyd Relief Fund, demonstrating his commitment to state-wide recovery efforts. Elected to the North Carolina General Assembly, Tolson represented parts of Edgecombe, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson Counties in the House of Representatives from 1994 until 1997. His dedication to higher education is reflected in his service on the Board of Trustees of North Carolina State University, where he held positions as Vice Chairman and First Vice Chair of the executive committee. Tolson graduated from North Carolina State University (NCSU) with a bachelor's degree in crop science and agribusiness. His outstanding career achievements and dedication to community service have earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award from NCSU. Additionally, Tolson served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965, further exemplifying his commitment to public service. Before embarking on his public service career, Tolson worked with E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, where he held various roles in marketing, research, and sales for the agricultural products and electronics divisions. His career with DuPont included several years of international experience, particularly in Europe. "We are thrilled to welcome Norris Tolson to the Chamber," said David Farris, Chamber President/CEO. "His vast experience and deep understanding of economic development will be invaluable as we continue to drive growth and innovation in our region. We are confident that Norris’s leadership will further our mission of enhancing the economic vitality of our community." Norris Tolson's addition to the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce underscores our commitment to leveraging seasoned expertise to foster economic growth and prosperity. His proven track record of success and dedication to service will undoubtedly enrich our efforts to advance the interests of our members & the broader community.
Great pick. Knowledgeable leader in economic development.
Congrats, this is great for the Chamber.
Randy Royal
1w
Congratulations. Looking forward to working with you more on the AxisEast project.
DONNA DEW
4d
Congratulations and Job well done.
Travis Burke
6d
This is FANTASTIC! Glad that you CONTINUE to make a difference!
Rocky Mount is truly blessed to have him.
Congratulations
One of the best leaders ever.
You got a great man!!
Events Director
3dNorris is one of a kind. It was an honor to work with him at the NC Biotech Center.