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Mary Ellen Michelle Kustin
Office history
Current office and 2026 campaign
Mary Ellen Kustin is the Democratic candidate for an at-large seat on the Henderson County Board of Education in the November 3, 2026 general election. The race is the county's first partisan school board contest; Kustin and fellow Democrat Reid J. Barwick face Republican incumbents Shelia Dale and Alyssa Norman and Republican challenger Randy Beaver 12.
Background and education
Kustin was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, and now lives in Hendersonville with her husband, who works in the local school system, and their two children, who attend Henderson County Public Schools 36. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and master's degrees in sustainable development and conservation biology, and in public policy 4.
Career
Kustin has spent her career in the nonprofit sector, including as Director of Community Impact at the United Way of Henderson County 5. She also tutors math and coaches youth sports 4.
Office history
Kustin first ran for the Henderson County Board of Education at-large seat in 2022 3. She ran again in 2024 6. She is running for the seat a third time in 2026 12.
Sources
Public filings
Candidates and officeholders are required by law to file campaign finance reports and statements of economic interest. The sites below don't support direct links to an individual record — search by last name on each.
North Carolina — campaign finance
- State, county, and municipal candidates — all in one system — NC State Board of Elections — Committee Search. Search by last name “Kustin”.
North Carolina — statement of economic interest
- Required for state-elected and many local officials — NC State Ethics Commission — Statement of Economic Interest Search. Search by last name “Kustin”.