The Cabarrus County Education Foundation is pleased to announce Steve Steinbacher as Chair and Katrina Carney as Vice Chair of its Board of Directors.
Together, they bring extensive community connections, complementary perspectives and a shared belief in the power of education to shape the future of Cabarrus County.
“Steve and Katrina understand that supporting students and educators is an investment in our entire community,” said Amy Gough, CCEF Executive Director. “Their leadership will help CCEF build upon the progress of our past boards, strengthen community partnerships and expand opportunities that prepare students for success in school, career and life.”
A Lifelong Connection to Education and Community
Steve’s connection to Cabarrus County Schools spans generations. He has experienced the district as a teacher, coach and parent—and now as a grandparent. His children received an excellent education through Cabarrus County Schools, and he wants to help ensure that his grandchildren and other students have the same strong foundation for their futures.
Steve also brings valuable business and entrepreneurial experience to his new leadership role. He is a principal with Criterion Healthcare, a healthcare facility consulting firm, and an owner of Cabarrus Brewing Company, Towel City Tavern and other hospitality ventures.
Through those experiences, Steve understands the importance of strategic thinking, adaptability and developing organizations that are prepared for sustainable growth. He also sees firsthand how closely the success of local businesses is connected to the strength of local schools.
Workforce development begins long before someone applies for a job. It starts as students learn to solve problems, communicate effectively, work with others and recognize how their talents can contribute to the world around them. Supporting students and educators helps build the skilled, confident and prepared workforce that businesses and communities need to thrive.
Steve’s commitment to Cabarrus County extends well beyond his professional work. An active community volunteer, he has served in leadership roles with the Cabarrus Arts Council, the Cabarrus County Convention & Visitors Bureau and other local nonprofit organizations.
As Board Chair, Steve is excited to build upon the work of CCEF’s previous boards and help lead the foundation into its next stage of growth, partnership and impact.
Creating Different Pathways to Possibility
For Katrina, CCEF’s mission is deeply personal.
As a teenager, she learned that she had a learning disability. That experience shaped how she views education and helped her understand that students do not all learn in the same way. When students have different pathways through which to engage, explore and demonstrate their abilities, opportunities can emerge that traditional approaches sometimes overlook.
That belief is one reason CCEF’s work resonates so strongly with her.
Through literacy initiatives, hands-on STEM learning and connections with local businesses, CCEF helps students experience learning in meaningful and relevant ways. These opportunities allow students to see, touch and explore what their futures might hold.
“When students can see, touch and experience what their future might look like, it changes everything,” Katrina said. “It builds confidence and a sense of belonging.”
As Vice Chair, Katrina wants to help create those opportunities for students throughout the community she loves. Her perspective reinforces CCEF’s commitment to helping educators reach students in different ways and connect classroom learning with real-world possibilities.
Leading CCEF Forward—Together
Steve and Katrina step into their leadership roles at an important time for CCEF. The foundation continues to strengthen programs that place books in students’ hands, equip teachers and classrooms, bring innovative educational ideas to life and connect learning with careers and the evolving needs of the local workforce.
Their experiences reflect two essential parts of CCEF’s work: understanding what students and educators need to succeed and engaging businesses and community partners in helping meet those needs.
CCEF serves as the bridge between those groups—turning community generosity, expertise and relationships into practical opportunities for students and educators.
With Steve and Katrina helping lead the way, CCEF will continue building upon its strong foundation while expanding the partnerships and opportunities that help Cabarrus County students prepare for the future.
Please join us in welcoming Steve Steinbacher and Katrina Carney to their new leadership roles.
