On July 1, Centralina Regional Council moved to the implementation phase of its new Strategic Plan. With that, the organization introduced the Strategic Engagement & Technical Services (SETS) department. At its core, SETS focuses on member and organizational goals and initiatives related to people, processes and policy. The realignment maximizes organizational efficiency and collaboration, dedicating more time to direct services, like technical assistance, training and engagement.
Familiar Faces, New Team
The SETS team is comprised of talented and dedicated Centralina standouts who are taking on new responsibilities, including Kelly Weston, SETS Manager; Narissa Claiborne, SETS Coordinator; Shanta Watkins, SETS Coordinator; and MaeLynn Joyner, Communications Administrator.
The cross-functional team is led by SETS Director Kasia Thompson, who joined Centralina in May. Thompson comes to Centralina from Cabarrus County Government and brings a strong background in local government administration, including experience in communications, strategy, data and performance management. She holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations from the University of Central Florida and has completed the UNC School of Government’s PELA and MCA programs. She also holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.
Thompson believes now is the time to capitalize on regional collaboration.
“When local governments think and act as a collective, it positions our region for a prosperous future and expands the impact of having both rural and urban identities,” Thompson said. “It’s exciting to be part of the Centralina team. We’re ready to meet you where you are with the experience, tools and resources to address challenges, adapt to emerging trends and prepare for what’s to come.”
The highly qualified professionals of SETS support five areas:
- Technical Assistance: Contracted technical assistance services for local governments in public administration and grants.
- Local Government Programming: Value-added programming for local government staff and elected officials to support peer exchange, professional development and best practices.
- Intergovernmental Affairs & Advocacy: Advocacy and relationship building with federal and state elected officials and agencies.
- Board Administration: Facilitating the effective governance of affiliated Boards and committees.
- Communications & Member Engagement: Effective communication and engagement with Centralina and specialty audiences.
Over the next few weeks, Thompson and the SETS team will reach out to Centralina members to learn more about needs identified in recent surveys and discuss the many services Centralina offers to support your jurisdiction’s journey to success in FY26.
To learn more or schedule a visit, call Kasia Thompson at 704-490-6081 or email KThompson@centralina.org.
