Wake County is excited to celebrate Black History Month by highlighting Black excellence in our community and among our staff.
Throughout the month of February, we'll be sharing personal profiles of Wake County leaders who truly embody what it means to honor diversity, inclusion and equity in service.
Today's Celebrating Black Excellence profile features Donald Mial, Wake County Commissioner..
Additional profiles will be added throughout the month, so be sure to check back often for more insights on Black excellence in our community.
Donald Mial
Wake County Commissioner Don Mial, a Raleigh native, dedicates his life’s work to making the world, North Carolina, and Wake County a better place. During Mial’s 30-year military career, he served in support of the Vietnam War, Cold War and Desert Storm, deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004, and served on active duty and North Carolina Army National Guard. In 2008, he retired as an Army Chief Warrant Officer Four.
His leadership and service expand beyond the military including but not limited to: N.C. Board of Victim Compensation Commission member (2009-2013), Wake County Board of Elections member (2011-2013), Wake County Board of Adjustment member (2006-2007, 2009-2022) and City of Raleigh Board of Adjustment member, (2017-2022).
He holds a master’s of Public Administration (MPA) and master’s of science in criminal justice from North Carolina Central University, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in History and Government, St. Augustine College, and an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Technology (A.A.S.), from Durham Technical Community College.
In his free time, he enjoys playing golf and riding motorcycles along with spending time with his family.
Q & A – Getting to Know You
What does Black excellence mean to you?
It is my belief that Black Excellence is the continued process of being proud of my heredity and continuing to strive and moving forward. Continuing the legacy of our forefathers and mothers that gave so much for us to be free and enjoy the benefits of their sacrifices. Men like John W. Ligon, John W. Winters, Vernon Malone, Harold Webb, Fred J. Carnage and John Chavis as well as Elizabeth Cofield and many others that gave to our community.
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
Be prepared for many disappointments, but you must continue to work hard and by all mean take school more seriously.
What was the last song you heard and/or book you read?
Last book I read was “Historic Black Neighborhoods of Raleigh” by Carmen Cauthen.
What is a quote that resonates with you?
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” – Frederick Douglas
What are you most proud of?
I have several things that I am proud of:
- Completing 30 years of military service
- Receiving Two Masters Degrees at the same time
- Completing my Warrant Officer training becoming an Officer in the U.S Army
- Being Elected to the Wake County Board of Commissioners
