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What Makes Cabarrus County Great: A Conversation with Dr. Aalece Pugh
By Avalin Inman
Cabarrus County is a place shaped by people who care deeply about the well-being, growth, and long-term health of its residents. Among those committed leaders is Dr. Aalece Pugh, a licensed psychologist who serves as both Assistant County Manager and Human Services Director for Cabarrus County, and as a member of the Greater Cabarrus Foundation Board of Directors.
Though originally from the Midwest, Aalece has called the Carolinas home for more than two decades. She joined Cabarrus County government in 2023 as Behavioral Health Director and now oversees a broad portfolio of essential services, including Social Services, Behavioral Health, Veterans Services, Transportation, and Emergency Medical Services. She also serves as liaison to the Cabarrus Health Alliance, connecting systems, partners, and people in ways that strengthen community health.
For Aalece, Cabarrus County’s unique character begins with its location and the people shaped by it.
A Community Unlike Any Other
Situated just northeast of one of the state’s major metropolitan hubs, Cabarrus County draws residents from across the region while still maintaining its own distinctive identity. That blend, Dr. Pugh explains, creates a richness that sets the county apart.
“Historically, Cabarrus was a rural, manufacturing-driven community. Today, it has evolved into a place where urban and rural meet, where you have everything from quiet green spaces to the energy around Concord Mills and the racetrack,” she says. “It’s a wonderful mix of individuals and neighborhoods, which makes it a truly unique place to live.”
Cabarrus County’s rapid growth reflects this vibrancy. Now one of the fastest-growing counties in North Carolina, the community is experiencing change at a pace that brings both opportunity and responsibility.
A Community with Something for Everyone
When asked what she is most proud of as a Cabarrus County resident, Aalece immediately points to the breadth of services, programs, and experiences available to people of all ages and backgrounds.
“We have a wonderful park system, an exceptional Active Living & Parks Department, and outstanding library services,” she says. “There’s so much green space for residents to enjoy—spaces that support both mental and physical well-being.”
At the same time, pockets of the county offer a faster pace for those who seek it.
“If you want a lively environment, you can find it. If you want something slower and more rural, that’s here too. Cabarrus truly has something for everyone.”
A Spirit of Collaboration and Care
One of the aspects Dr. Pugh appreciates most about Cabarrus County is the spirit of partnership that fuels the work of local agencies.
“I really appreciate how invested our community partners are in what we’re striving to do in Human Services,” she says. “We’re transforming our philosophy of care, strengthening programs, and listening to residents about their needs. To have partners who support that work is invaluable.”
Whether addressing child welfare, behavioral health, transportation barriers, hunger, or emergency response needs, she sees a community willing to work together and innovate to improve quality of life.
A Passionate, Invested Culture
When asked to describe the culture of Cabarrus County, one word comes to Aalece instantly: passionate.
“Cabarrus County residents are truly invested in their community,” she reflects. “They care deeply about what happens here and how we support one another.”
That commitment extends to the nonprofit sector as well, making her service with the Greater Cabarrus Foundation especially meaningful.
Why the Greater Cabarrus Foundation Matters
As a board member, Aalece has gained a new perspective on how philanthropy and public service intersect.
“This role gives me a different lens on how I can have an impact, both as a community member and through my work in Human Services,” she says. “The Foundation’s principles align closely with the populations we serve in Cabarrus County. It is a unique opportunity to see how we can complement and strengthen one another’s work.”
Through grantmaking, capacity building, donor partnerships, and community collaboration, the Foundation invests in the same residents and root causes Aalece’s teams support every day.
Looking Ahead: A Future Full of Opportunity
With Cabarrus County growing rapidly, Dr. Pugh sees tremendous promise in the years ahead.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to continue growing, learning, and evolving with this community,” she says. “We have the chance to expand trauma-informed, evidence-based services and to listen deeply to residents about gaps we still need to fill.”
While growth can bring challenges, she views them as opportunities for innovation rather than concerns.
“We may have to do more with less at times, but our teams and partners are nimble, collaborative, and willing to think outside the box. That’s what gives me hope for the future.”
A Shared Commitment to Cabarrus County
For Dr. Aalece Pugh, serving both the County and the Greater Cabarrus Foundation is part of a larger commitment to the long-term vitality of Cabarrus County.
“I truly appreciate the opportunity to contribute, not just to the well-being of individual residents but to the community as a whole,” she says. “There is so much important work to do, and I am grateful to be part of it.”
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