OER Leadership
The mission of the Office of Engaged Research (OER) is to enrich and prepare ECU students, faculty and staff to support a thriving future for eastern North Carolina and the world. The office reinforces the enduring values of the university’s commitment to maximize student success, serve the public and lead regional transformation.
Dr. Sharon Paynter
Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer
paynters@ecu.edu
252-328-9471
Sharon Paynter earned a doctorate in public administration from North Carolina State University, master’s in legal administration from the University of Denver, and master’s of public administration and bachelor’s degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill. Paynter served as the acting chief research and engagement officer before being appointed the chief innovation and engagement officer. She is also an associate professor of political science. Paynter’s research interests include hunger, poverty and public policy.
Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer
paynters@ecu.edu
252-328-9471
Sharon Paynter earned a doctorate in public administration from North Carolina State University, master’s in legal administration from the University of Denver, and master’s of public administration and bachelor’s degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill. Paynter served as the acting chief research and engagement officer before being appointed the chief innovation and engagement officer. She is also an associate professor of political science. Paynter’s research interests include hunger, poverty and public policy.
Cassie Keel
University Program Support Associate
keelc15@ecu.edu
252-328-9480
Cassie Keel earned her bachelor’s in psychology from East Carolina University and is currently enrolled in ECU’s project management graduate certificate program. She is the university program support associate for the Office of Engaged Research. Keel manages the SECU Public Fellows Internship program and supports other OER efforts.
University Program Support Associate
keelc15@ecu.edu
252-328-9480
Cassie Keel earned her bachelor’s in psychology from East Carolina University and is currently enrolled in ECU’s project management graduate certificate program. She is the university program support associate for the Office of Engaged Research. Keel manages the SECU Public Fellows Internship program and supports other OER efforts.
Learn about the university’s elective
Carnegie Foundation Classification for Community Engagement.
Mailing Address
Office of Engaged Research
Research, Economic Development and Engagement
209 E. 5th Street
Mail Stop 157
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC 27858-4353