Clayton Town Manager Completes Civic Fellows Program

CLAYTON, NC – Town of Clayton Manager Rich Cappola has completed Leading for Results, an intensive leadership development program offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Government. Cappola completed the program on October 16, 2026, after being selected as a Civic Fellow through a competitive statewide application process.

Cappola was among 25 local government professionals selected for the first 2026 cohort. More than 200 individuals from across North Carolina applied for the 2026 Civic Fellows program, which recognizes emerging leaders who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to public service.

The two-week program, held in September and October, focuses on strengthening personal and organizational leadership. Participants explore leadership strategies, assess their individual strengths, and develop practical skills to improve communication, build effective teams, and lead organizational change.

“One of the most valuable parts of this experience was learning alongside other local government leaders who face many of the same challenges and opportunities we do,” said Cappola. “It reinforced the importance of listening, supporting our employees, and continually looking for ways to improve. I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned back to Clayton and put those lessons to work for our organization and the community we serve.”

Throughout the program, Cappola participated in interactive learning experiences, leadership assessments, and individual coaching alongside local government leaders from across North Carolina. The experience provided opportunities to exchange ideas, examine leadership challenges, and identify strategies that can be applied to strengthen Town operations and better serve the Clayton community.

The Civic Fellows program is offered through the UNC School of Government with support from Civic Federal Credit Union. Selected fellows receive tuition-free participation, professional coaching, and access to a statewide network of local government leaders.

“It means a lot to see organizations like Civic Federal Credit Union investing in the growth of local government leaders,” said Cappola. “Their support makes experiences like this possible, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to participate.”