WHO WE ARE
AMPLIFYING VOICES, DRIVING CHANGE
Beacon Media is North Carolina’s pro-democracy media syndicate, amplifying the voices of future leaders to drive meaningful change. We partner with media outlets to share stories that matter, reaching and empowering communities often overlooked, and advocating for progress across our state.
BEACON MEDIA LEADERSHIP AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BUILDING A STRONGER, MORE EQUITABLE NORTH CAROLINA
Beacon Media’s Board of Directors is a group of deeply experienced, passionate individuals committed to advancing equity and justice in North Carolina.
Brandy Bynum Dawson
Chair; Senior Program Director, Rural Prosperity and Investment MDC Inc.
Brandy Bynum Dawson, Senior Director of Rural Prosperity at MDC, is a dedicated policy advocate focused on enhancing economic opportunities and equity in rural North Carolina. Her genuine approach helps Southern leaders overcome challenges and create pathways to success.
Kym Meyer
Secretary; Litigation Director, Southern Environmental Law Center
Kym Meyer, Litigation Director at the Southern Environmental Law Center, champions key environmental issues. With expertise in environmental law, she tackles climate change, fights for justice, and advocates for accountability and better transportation, all to ensure a healthier future.
Brooks Fuller
Treasurer; Research director, american oversight
Brooks Fuller, former Assistant Professor at Elon University, specializes in media law and ethics. With a Ph.D. from UNC – Chapel Hill, he focused on free expression and government transparency. Now at American Oversight, he continues to advocate for national government accountability.
Justin Clayton
Vice President, External Affairs, UnitedHealth Group
Justin Clayton, VP of External Affairs at UnitedHealth Group, shapes health care policies and drives growth in the Carolinas. With deep legislative experience, he advocates for better access and community well-being, supporting youth programs and mental health initiatives.
Paul Cuadros
Associate Professor of Journalism at UNC Chapel Hill
Paul Cuadros, a journalist and advocate, has spent over two decades highlighting race, poverty, and immigration in America, focusing on the Latino South. At UNC-Chapel Hill, he mentors Latino students, guiding them toward higher education while advocating for justice and equality.
Akilah Ensley
Chief Executive Officer, Invictus Strategy Group
Akilah Ensley, CEO and Political Strategist at Invictus Strategy Group, supports democratic candidates and progressive nonprofits through fundraising, campaign management, and grassroots organizing. Her leadership has helped raise over $70 million, driven by a commitment to lasting impact.
Mike Figueras
Organizer, Education Justice Alliance
Miguel (Mike) Figueras, a Bi-Lingual Community Organizer for the Education Justice Alliance, has successfully launched initiatives reducing disparities in education for Black, Brown, and disabled students. He organizes events on mental health and academic support, bridging gaps and advocating for equity.
James Gailliard
Senior Pastor, Word Tabernacle Church
James D. Gailliard, Senior Pastor at Word Tabernacle Church and former NC State Representative, has led initiatives improving health, housing, and education. His Faith & Health Summit addresses health equity in the Black community, and he mobilizes Black voters for impactful political change.
Pope "Mac" McCorkle
Professor of Public Policy at Duke University
Pope “Mac” McCorkle, founder of McCorkle Policy Consulting, has shaped campaigns and strategies for candidates in NC and 28 other states. With degrees from Princeton and Duke Law, he drives informed decision-making in politics, reflecting his commitment to impactful, data-driven solutions.
Jeremy Borden
Executive Director
Jeremy Borden is a seasoned journalist who has worked with The Washington Post, City Bureau, and The Post and Courier (Charleston, S.C.), covering politics and policy. He returned to North Carolina in 2019. In 2022, he managed N.C. Sen. Graig Meyer’s campaign and began to work with him on a project to meet information needs outside of rural areas. He holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and American University.
Graig Meyer
Founder of Beacon Media
Graig Meyer’s commitment to public service is rooted in his dedication to social justice and equity. With over a decade in the NC General Assembly, he has fought for fair wages, quality healthcare, and access to strong public education. As a former social worker, he understands systemic challenges. Graig also advocates for cannabis reform and criminal justice to ensure opportunities for all North Carolinians.
OUR TEAM
Connecting Voices, Creating Change
At Beacon Media, we’re connectors and advocates, engaging with communities across North Carolina to ensure voices are heard and understood. Through collaboration, we build trust and foster connections that lead to meaningful change. Our mission is rooted in uplifting underrepresented voices and creating a more equitable, inclusive future for all.