How we got here...
Who We Are...
Executive Director
J. Michelle Shiplet
With over two decades of experience in nonprofit development, program design, and collaborative leadership, Michelle has championed initiatives ranging from community food systems and elder care services to cultural preservation and economic revitalization. Under her guidance, Five Point Center has become a trusted hub for innovation, compassion, and action in Graham County and beyond.
Michelle is known for her strategic thinking, inclusive partnerships, and relentless drive to turn vision into reality, always with the goal of empowering people and honoring place.
“At Five Point Center, we believe strong communities are built through connection, care, and courage.”
– J. Michelle Shiplet
Board Members
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Board Chairman
Heather Frederick
Hello! My husband is Dr. Rory Frederick; he is the dentist at the Graham County Dental
Clinic. We have three teenage boys. We have lived in Graham County for over sixteen years. I am a stay-at-home mom who enjoys reading, hiking and spending time with my family.
Vice Chairman
Bethany Riddle
Hello! I am a North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist and Community Health Worker with a passion for helping individuals navigate recovery and access care. I lead the Community Linkage to Care program and the Post-Overdose Response Team at the Graham County Department of Public Health, where I have served since January 2021.
I'm a Mom to four grown kids and two little kids who love creative journaling, Vampire Diaries, and all things Harry Potter!
Secretary
Kelsey Cody
Hello! I'm Dr. Kelsey Knight Cody, a Graham County native, graduated from the UNC School of Dentistry in 2018 and completed her General Practice Residency at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville before joining Dr. Kelley’s practice in 2019. She became the owner of Smoky Mountain Smiles in 2021 and is committed to providing state-of-the-art dental care while continually advancing her skills through ongoing education. Dr. Cody is married to Brady Cody, Graham County’s current County Manager, and they have two daughters, Nora and Amelia, with a third daughter on the way in November. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, running, and spending time with family. She has volunteered with Grace Place since 2019 and has served on the FPCI Board since 2021.
Treasurer
Matt Shiplet
Hello! I am married to Michelle and have three daughters and seven grandkids. I am a registered professional civil engineer and currently work for the USDOT on the Blue Ridge Parkway. I have been involved with Five Point Center since it was formed and am also on the board of Liberty Missionary Church.
Board Member
Vincent Wesley
Hello! My name is Vincent Wesley. I live in Robbinsville. I work for Graham County Sheriff's office as Courthouse Security Officer. Have been with the department since 2016. I'm a musician also, I play a few different instruments. I enjoy classic country or classic rock music. But my favorite music is southern gospel. I play bass and piano in our worship team at church. I have also enjoy watching my nephews and nieces play sports.
Board Member
Clinton Jones
Hello! I'm a proud resident of Graham County and a father of two wonderful children. With six years of experience as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. As someone in long-term recovery myself, I understand the challenges and triumphs that come with this path.
I have a deep love for the outdoors and cherish every moment spent in the beautiful Smokey Mountains, which I am fortunate to call home. Giving back to my community is a passion of mine, and I strive to make a positive impact through my work and personal life.
Partners
