A lifelong Robeson County resident, Senator Michael Walters was appointed to the Senate in November, 2009 by Governor Beverly Perdue. Senator Walters is proud to be a citizen of southeastern North Carolina and appreciates the rich cultural diversity and history of our unique, tri-racial area. Senator Walters believes that Robeson and Hoke Counties are special places whose residents are proud of their heritage and traditions. Senator Walters believes our uniqueness is a positive attribute for Hoke and Robeson Counties and provides tremendous potential for economic recruitment and development within our region.
After growing up on the family farm in Fairmont, Senator Walters attended North Carolina State University. After graduation, Senator Walters and his wife, Dr. Barbara Walters, returned to the family farm in Fairmont. Senator and Mrs. Walters are the parents of three daughters, two sons-in-law, and one grandson. A dedicated alumnus, Senator Walters continues to serve his alma mater on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina State University Wolfpack Club.
After earning a degree in Agricultural Education, Senator Walters returned home to work for the family business. From 1978 until 2002, Senator Walters was the Secretary-Treasurer of the Claybourn Walters Logging Company, a company started by his grandfather, who then passed the ownership to Walters’ father. In 2003, Senator Walters became the third President of the Claybourn Walters Logging Company, Inc. Because of his close ties to the land through farming and timber, Senator Walters is keenly aware of the vast natural resources in Hoke and Robeson Counties and recognizes the economic growth potential they bring to our region.
Although Senator Walters’ committee assignments in the Senate have yet to be determined, he plans to bring his small business expertise to every position he undertakes in Raleigh. Creating good paying jobs is his number one priority as he enters the 2010 Senate session. Senator Walters believes the knowledge and experiences he gained firsthand while working for and owning a family-operated small business will help him get the people of Robeson and Hoke Counties back to work.
Senator Walters believes in the future of Robeson and Hoke Counties. He will continue to work diligently for future economic development and improved educational opportunities in our region.