Mackenzie Patak is Hometown Strong's Policy Analyst for the state of North Carolina's Northeast and Southeast Prosperity Zones. In this role, Mackenzie works to connect rural eastern North Carolina communities with state and federal resources to accomplish their strategic goalsPoli and improve the lives of those living in rural communities. Mackenzie is also responsible for tracking federal funding projects in local communities across the state and compares federal funding for rural vs urban communities.
Born and raised in New Bern, North Carolina, Mackenzie has had a life-long investment in improving eastern North Carolina communities. She fell in love with public servitude in high school, and quickly realized her purpose in life was to build stronger, more equitable communities.
Mackenzie earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science from UNC Asheville in 2019 and her master's degree in Public Administration from North Carolina State University in 2022.
In her spare time, you can find Mackenzie relaxing with her rescue mutt, Winnie.