The Lenoir County Board of Education convened a special meeting on January 16, 2024, primarily to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of board member Keith King on December 5, 2023.

The primary focus of the meeting was the election of a new board member. The board had previously conducted interviews with potential candidates on January 8th, 2024. Board attorney for the Lenoir and Hoke County Boards of Education Carolyn Murchison, overseeing the voting process, explained that the board had decided to vote by ballot. The candidates under consideration were John Wiggins and Steve Roman.

“It was an exciting moment knowing I would get another opportunity to serve our community,” said Wiggins. “I have spent all my adult life serving in one capacity or another. However, this will be something different from anything else I have done. Fortunately, I was at peace with the whole process.”

The voting process was transparent and straightforward. Murchison announced the tally, declaring, "With a vote of four to two, Mr. John Wiggins will be your next board member. Congratulations." The board expressed their gratitude to both candidates for their willingness to serve the students of the Lenoir County Public School system.

“Steve Roman is a friend of mine, our kids are friends, and I looked at the whole thing as a win-win situation for Lenoir County,” said Wiggins. “If Steve had been selected, I would support him 110% and I am confident he will do the same for me. “

Board Chair Hill welcomed Wiggins, stating, "We'd like to congratulate Mr. Wiggins and welcome him as a member of the Lenoir County Board of Education." He further assured Wiggins of the board's support and announced that Mr. Williams would be in touch with him for orientation.

Wiggins, who was not present at the meeting, will be officially sworn in at the regular monthly meeting scheduled for February 5th, 2024. His term will extend until November 3rd, 2024, aligning with the regular election cycle.

“I have already received several phone calls from the superintendent, board members, and support staff welcoming me, and letting me know about some of the training that must be accomplished,” said Wiggins. “I also plan to visit every school in my district and ask the staff what I can do to assist them.”