Staff and Key Volunteers

Zack Green serves the High Country Council of Governments' team as the Area Agency on Aging Director. Zack completed his bachelor's and master's degrees at Appalachian State University and most recently served six years as Executive Director for a local non-profit organization where he established a track record for expanding service delivery by securing new grants, partnerships, and fundraising. He not only joins us highly recommended but has been recognized for his service in the community having won awards as Watauga County Rescue Squad member of the year and as the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 4 under 40 winner in education. We are excited to welcome him to the Area Agency on Aging team! Zack is enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring his experience in impacting others through support, recreation, and education programs to improve the health and well-being of older adults in the High Country. In Zack's free time, he enjoys hanging out with his family, being outdoors as much as possible, and trying to keep up with his two wild kiddos. Anytime Zack and his family are hanging out near the water, they are happy. Zack is excited to support the mission of the AAA to help all people have access to support and resources they need for a healthy and safe life.

Stevie brings a wealth of experience to her role on Long Term Care Ombudsman, advocating for older adults in various capacities.  Stevie has worked in long term care facilities, offering residents person-centered care plans and facilitating multidisciplinary teams to provide optimal care to each individual. She has also been part of several significant initiatives aimed at reducing senior hunger and improving health through nutrition, as well as improving access to health services and support systems for LBGT older adults.  Stevie holds an MSW from Appalachian State University and loves living in the mountains.

Tammy Nelson serves the High Country in the Aging Services Coordinator role. Tammy manages the Lifespan Respite Program and our State Health Insurance Information Program grant, and works as a liaison with our Senior Tarheel Legislature group while coordinating AAA outreach efforts. Tammy comes to the agency with 20+ years administrative experience in healthcare and human services. Her experience includes work at the Foley Center, providing outreach opportunities for Medicaid enrollment, and working for Watauga Medical Center, where she earned “employee of the year” honors. Tammy is highly involved in our community including supporting efforts such as Safe Kids and Joy Prom. Tammy is highly involved in her local church, serving as a Deacon. We are excited to have Tammy at the COG and on the Area Agency on Aging team. 

Myles Stacey joined the Area Agency on Aging as the Family Caregiver Project Coordinator. He has lived in the High Country for the last eight years and completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work at Appalachian State University. Myles recently spent time with OASIS, where he helped manage their outreach and education programs. His passion for community education and engagement had led him into this client-centered role. 

Quinn Griffin works with High Country Area Agency on Aging as the Health Promotion Specialist. Quinn is an experienced health educator with a master’s degree in nutrition from Meredith College. Their work includes development of nutrition education programs for all ages, as well as leading strength and balance training for older adults while working at the Poe Center for Health Education in Raleigh. Quinn received a bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University, and has a deep background in early childhood education and curriculum. Quinn works to support and develop our fall prevention efforts for older adults to help make our community a safer place to age.