Gracie Herring Named Marketing and Communications Manager

The North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region is pleased to announce the hiring of Gracie Herring as its new Marketing and Communications Manager.

Herring will begin her role on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. 

Herring is a Lenoir County native and brings a strong foundation in communications, marketing, and public engagement, along with a clear understanding of eastern North Carolina and the communities that make up the region.

She is a graduate of Appalachian State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies with a concentration in public relations and a minor in digital marketing, graduating in May 2025. While at Appalachian State, Herring worked within the university’s athletics program, supporting marketing initiatives, brand management, fan engagement, and coordinated outreach efforts. Her experience required collaboration across multiple departments and a thoughtful, data informed approach to communications. 

In addition to her collegiate experience, Herring worked with a local media organization, where she supported digital media strategy, content development, and community focused storytelling for businesses and organizations across eastern North Carolina. Most recently, she worked for a small local business in an administrative support role, gaining additional experience in professional office operations and client interaction. 

“Gracie stood out throughout our hiring process,” said Mark Pope, President of the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region. “She brings strong communication skills, a professional mindset, and a real connection to this region. We are excited to have her join our team and are confident she will play an important role in how we represent this region and support our economic development efforts.” 

The North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region is a nonprofit organization that works on behalf of its member partners, Greene County, Lenoir County, Wayne County, and the North Carolina Global TransPark. The organization provides industrial economic development services focused on attracting new investment, supporting existing industry, and promoting job creation. Through collaboration with local governments and regional partners, the organization works to strengthen the industrial economy and long term competitiveness of eastern North Carolina.