The Greenville City Council has appointed Toya Jacobs to the Greenville Utilities Board of Commissioners to complete the unexpired term of Dennis Mitchell, beginning July 5, 2016.

"I feel very honored to be appointed to the GUC Board of Commissioners," said Commissioner Jacobs. "I believe in community ownership, community service, sustainability, and growth. I appreciate this opportunity and am excited to serve the community in this role."

Commissioner Jacobs has held multiple positions at East Carolina University (ECU) and is currently the Diversity & Inclusion Program Manager at East Carolina University. Prior to joining ECU, Toya served as community services director for the United Way of Pitt County and as the community education coordinator for the Family Violence Program Incorporated of Pitt County.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in child development and family relations and has a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in public personnel administration — both from East Carolina University.

Commissioner Jacobs was selected as one of ECU's Division of Student Affairs inaugural 40 Under 40 award recipients in 2015. The awards were presented to individuals who excel in their fields and show dynamic leadership qualities through impact on their communities, peers, and colleagues. She has also won the National Pan-Hellenic Council Advisor of the Year Award in 2014, Outstanding Faculty Advisor in 2010, two Chancellor's Synergy awards, and the 2005 NAACP Legacy Award.

She currently serves on the East Carolina University Women's Roundtable Board of Directors and has volunteered extensively with the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce, Ronald McDonald House charities, the State Employees Credit Union, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, where she is a lifetime member.

Commissioner Jacobs is married to Jamie Jacobs and has one step-son, Jaylin.