Greene County Commissioner Derek Burress Elected Chairman of State Rehabilitation Council; Maybee to Lead New Legislative Committee
Greene County Commissioner Derek Burress has been elected Chairman of the North Carolina State Rehabilitation Council (SRC), ushering in a new era of leadership for the advisory body responsible for guiding statewide vocational rehabilitation policies and programs. Burress succeeds Michael Maybee of Boone, who will continue his service as the newly appointed chair of an ad hoc committee focused on state and federal legislative affairs.
Burress, was originally appointed to the SRC by now-Congressman Tim Moore, and was reappointed in 2025 by NC House Speaker Destin Hall previously served as Vice Chair and as a member of both the Consumer Input and Public Outreach Committee and the Policy and Review Committee. His election reflects a track record of strong leadership and a deep commitment to improving employment and independent-living opportunities for North Carolinians with disabilities.
Strengthening Policy Leadership
One of Burress’s first actions as chairman was the creation of the Ad Hoc Committee on State and Federal Legislation, designed to monitor policy changes, recommend advocacy positions, and enhance the council’s engagement with lawmakers.
Outgoing chairman Michael Maybee will lead this initiative, ensuring continuity and leveraging his extensive experience with disability policy.
“Staying ahead of legislative changes is essential to protecting and expanding opportunities for the disability community,” Burress said. “This committee will allow us to respond more effectively to emerging issues and strengthen our advisory role.”
Amy Miller Elected Vice Chairperson
In addition to the election of the new chair, Amy Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer of OE Enterprises, Inc., has been elected Vice Chairperson of the SRC.
Miller, who also represents Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) on the council, leads OE Enterprises — a Hillsborough-based nonprofit that provides vocational training, supported employment, long-term supports, and community-based services across Orange, Alamance, and Durham counties.
Her election to vice chair brings a strong provider perspective to executive leadership and positions the council to deepen collaboration with agencies and service partners statewide.
About the State Rehabilitation Council
The North Carolina SRC works in partnership with the NCDHHS Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD). The council:
• Reviews, evaluates, and advises on VR services and statewide policy
• Helps develop the State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation
• Conducts public forums and gathers consumer feedback
• Ensures representation from VR consumers, families, disability advocates, educators, businesses, and providers
• Promotes equitable access to employment and community integration
• Coordinates with partner organizations to strengthen outcomes across the VR system
State law authorizes up to 18 appointed members, and the council currently includes approximately 15 active members, serving staggered three-year terms and representing a wide range of disability and workforce stakeholders.
A New Direction for the Council
With Burress serving as Chair, Miller as Vice Chair, and Maybee leading a newly established legislative committee, the SRC is positioned to increase its influence, strengthen statewide partnerships, and advance key initiatives supporting individuals with disabilities.
“We are committed to building a stronger, more responsive vocational rehabilitation system,” Burress said. “Together, our leadership team will work to expand opportunities, enhance service quality, and ensure every North Carolinian with a disability has a pathway to success.”
