Leadership

"I serve with SORS because we serve and support our community EVERY DAY.”

A Chapel Hill native, Fred is a longtime champion for the Squad. He has been a member of SORS since 1997 and has served multiple terms as a board member and board chairman. Fred is also a member of the UNC Community Emergency Response Team, the UNC Libraries Emergency Preparedness Committee and the UNC Libraries Disaster Response Team.

“Serving with the South Orange Rescue Squad allows me to contribute to a dedicated team committed to high professional standards and community service. It's an honor to empower and work alongside passionate individuals to make a real difference."

Jacques Morin is a leader in adult education and healthcare training, currently serving as the Senior Director of Professional Programs and Learner Services at Duke University. With over 20 years of experience, he has made significant contributions to emergency medical services (EMS) education, researching clinical decision-making to enhance patient outcomes and serving as Treasurer for the South Orange Rescue Squad. At Duke, Jacques oversees diverse programs for global learners and alumni, driving growth through strategic partnerships and leveraging innovative technology. A published presenter on critical pedagogy, he holds a Doctorate in Education from Vanderbilt University and is dedicated to advancing learning experiences that promote inclusivity and professional development.

*ex officio member

"I support SORS because I have met some of my closest friends and have learned a lot during my time with this organization."

Regan joined SORS in 2019, working as an EMT on the EMS division and later joining the CPR division. She was a Lieutenant on the EMS division for 2 years and currently is the Operations Captain for EMS. Regan is a UNC Chapel Hill graduate and now works as a Paramedic for Orange County Emergency Services. She has served as the Board Secretary since late 2022. 

*ex officio member

A member of SORS since 1996, Matthew has served in various roles in the EMS Division and the Technical Rescue Team and has been chief since 2004. He's a certified swiftwater rescue, rope rescue and ICS instructor, and serves as the lead rescue tech for the Eastern section of the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team. Matthew served on the Orange County Board of County Commissioners’ Emergency Services Workgroup and the Radio Tower Site Committee, and has been a firefighter, captain and safety officer for the New Hope Fire Department.

*ex officio member

"SORS is selfless in its support of our community.”

Derek Kemp is the Associate Vice Chancellor for Campus Safety and Risk Management at UNC. He provides institutional oversight for public safety, environmental affairs, occupational health and safety, emergency management and business continuity. Kemp is a 26-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, including three years as commanding officer for the Naval Base in San Diego, where he managed the daily operations of the world’s second-largest naval installation, a 3,200-acre military complex supporting more than 50 ships and 30,000 military and civilian personnel. He later worked at Hewlett-Packard Company, serving as center program manager in support of a $2.5 billion National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) contract. Kemp earned a Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management/Accounting from Syracuse University.

“I serve on the SORS board because of the fantastic volunteers who are there when we need them.”

A native of Southwestern Orange County, Margot has been a SORS supporter since high school and joined the board in 2022. She leads the Strategic Communications & Advocacy Committee and serves on the Social Media Committee. She brings 40+ years of communications, marketing, journalism and advocacy experience to SORS. When she’s not running her microenterprise, The Word Factory, she’s involved in local politics and nature interpretation.

“SORS is a caring, compassionate group that gives its all to the community.”

Leyla initially joined SORS in 2019 as a member of the EMS division. She worked as a Training Lieutenant for 1 year before transitioning to her role as the Training Captain for the EMS Division for 2 years. Leyla also previously served as the Secretary for the squad from 2021-22. She is a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill and NC State University and has lived in the area since 2017. Leyla has worked with Orange County Emergency Services for 4 years and currently works as a Paramedic. Leyla serves on the Fundraising Committee on the Board and works to support members of the squad in their mission to serve the community.

“SORS is an invaluable asset to our community. I’m humbled to be part of such an educated, talented and brave group of altruistic people.”

Marie is a certified medical illustrator and visual artist. She joined the Board in 2020 and is currently in her second term. Marie is a former member of the EMS Division and a current member of the CPR Division. She also serves on the Fundraising Committee. In her copious free time, Marie runs a small farm and artist’s retreat. 

“I support SORS because they are my family.”

Sachi joined SORS in 2019 as a member of the EMS division. She worked as an EMT before becoming an Operations lieutenant for one year. She has a bachelor's degree from UNC Chapel Hill, and during college worked for Orange County EMS as an EMT for 2 years. She has been serving on the board since 2023. She attends medical school at UNC School of Medicine, and is currently in her second year. She also serves as the head of the Social Media Committee and continues to work as an EMT at SORS. 

“It is an honor to serve on the SORS Board of Directors. For over 50 years, this organization has provided exceptional service to our community.” 

Matt joined SORS in 2020. He served our community for more than 32 years, in multiple public safety-related positions with the Town of Chapel Hill. His last 5 years of service were as Chapel Fire Chief. As a member of the Town’s executive team, he participated in the development and implementation of the Town’s strategic vision. Matt’s areas of interest within emergency services include response to large-scale community events, responder mental health, interagency coordination and cooperation, and the development of 21st-century emergency service leaders.

“I support SORS because it supports my community and shaped me into the provider and leader I am today."

RuthAnne joined SORS in 2021, working for our EMS division as an EMT, eventually moving up to a lieutenant position and now a role on the board. She is a UNC Chapel Hill graduate and currently earning her Master’s of Public Health at Gillings School of Global Public Health. RuthAnne also works for Orange County Emergency Services as an EMT serving on the Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement Team in partnership with the Chapel Hill Police Department. As our fundraising chair, she has a goal of reaching new audiences and educating the community on the services that SORS provides.