CARRBORO, NC -- During Women’s History Month, the Town of Carrboro proudly lifts up a historic milestone: three African-American women serving in leadership roles that shape Carrboro’s civic voice, governance, and cultural legacy.

Patrice Y. Toney, Barbara Foushee, and Dr. Amanda Bennett represent a powerful moment in Carrboro’s story—one rooted in progress, representation, and possibility.

A Historic First

• Patrice Y. Toney, Town Manager: As the first African-American woman to serve as Town Manager, Patrice Toney leads Carrboro’s day-to-day operations with a focus on trust-building, staff engagement, fiscal stewardship, and forward-looking strategy. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to inclusive governance and organizational excellence.
• Mayor Barbara Foushee, Mayor of Carrboro: As the first African-American woman elected Mayor, Barbara Foushee brings decades of public service, advocacy, and steady leadership to the role. Her tenure symbolizes both continuity and courage, while centering community values and equity.
• Dr. Amanda Bennett, Poet Laureate: As the first African-American women to serve as Carrboro's Poet Laureate, Dr. Bennett elevates the Town’s cultural and artistic voice. Through poetry, storytelling, and education, she captures Carrboro’s soul by honoring history while inspiring reflection, dialogue, and connection.

Why This Moment Matters

This milestone is not only about firsts, but also about doors opened, voices amplified, and futures imagined. Leadership shows up in many forms: policy, governance, culture, and care. These three women reflect Carrboro’s belief that representation matters, and leadership is strongest when it reflects the full community.

During Women’s History Month, Carrboro celebrates this powerful convergence of leadership and legacy.

“We stand on the shoulders of women who came before us, and we lead so others will know what is possible.” -- Patrice Y. Toney

• Read the Proclamation for Carrboro Women's History Month.
• Join us on Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Drakeford Library Complex for our Women's History Month Program: Rise & Rhythms. 
• Learn more about Women's History Month in Carrboro

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