Eastern, NC [September 17, 2026] NC East Alliance is announcing a leadership transition designed to build on the organization’s strong foundation and strengthen its impact across Eastern North Carolina.
Dr. Frank “Trip” Belote will become President & CEO of NC East Alliance, while Vann Rogerson will become CEO Emeritus and continue supporting the organization’s leadership team by focusing on fundraising and special projects.
The transition comes as NC East Alliance continues to expand its work connecting employers, educators, workforce partners and communities across its 29-county region.
“Trip and I have had many conversations about how we can take our private non-profit to the next level,” said Rogerson. We believe that our new operational teamwork within NC East will result in continued growth and advancement of our region. I am proud of our ongoing accomplishments, and I look forward to supporting our new President/CEO and the Board.”
Rogerson, who has led NC East Alliance through a period of growth and expanded regional engagement, said the transition reflects a shared effort to position the organization for its next phase.
“The Board believes Trip is the right leader for NC East at this important point in the organization’s growth,” said Jerry Jones, Chairman of the NC East Alliance Board of Directors. “He understands Eastern North Carolina, has built strong relationships throughout the region and brings a combination of economic development experience, research expertise and private-sector leadership that will serve NC East well. Just as importantly, this transition allows us to retain Vann’s experience and relationships as we build on the strong foundation he has helped create.”
Belote will lead the organization as NC East Alliance continues its work connecting employers, educators, community colleges and regional partners to build stronger career pathways, connect talent to opportunity and help communities and industries make informed decisions about the future.
“NC East Alliance has an important role to play in the future of Eastern North Carolina,” said Dr. Trip Belote. “Our focus is on building on the strong work already underway, strengthening the connections across our region and continuing to find meaningful ways to create opportunity and support growth.”
The leadership transition positions NC East Alliance to build on its existing momentum while expanding its capacity to serve Eastern North Carolina and respond to emerging opportunities across the region.
About Dr. Frank “Trip” Belote
Dr. Frank “Trip” Belote has served as Executive Vice President of NC East Alliance and founding Executive Director of the NC East Applied Research Institute (ARI), where he has helped advance the organization’s data-driven approach to workforce development and regional prosperity. In his new role, he will lead NC East Alliance’s work across its 29-county region, strengthening connections among education, employers, workforce partners and communities throughout Eastern North Carolina.
Belote holds a Ph.D. in Adult Education and Workforce Development from North Carolina State University, a Master of Public Administration from Auburn University at Montgomery and a bachelor’s degree in government from Campbell University. He was certified as an Economic Developer (CEcD) in 1995.
As President & CEO, Belote will bring these experiences together to continue strengthening NC East Alliance and expanding its impact across Eastern North Carolina.
