With over four decades devoted to North Carolina’s educational institutions, Allison Schafer, the general counsel for both the State Board of Education (SBE) and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), is set to retire on January 31, 2026. Her distinguished career has left an indelible mark on the state’s public education system.
State Board of Education Chair Eric Davis praised Schafer’s enduring impact, stating, “Allison Schafer has been a steady, trusted and wise legal voice for the State Board of Education, the Department of Public Instruction and the entire public school community.” He highlighted her unwavering commitment to lawful governance and education.
Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice “Mo” Green echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Schafer’s professional integrity and leadership. “Allison brings extraordinary professionalism, integrity and clarity to every matter before her,” noted Green. Her efforts have been crucial in advancing the board’s educational goals.
Reflecting on her impending retirement, Schafer expressed gratitude for her years of service. “It has been an honor to serve as the general counsel of the SBE and NCDPI for the last five years,” she remarked. She looks forward to spending more time with her family and exploring personal pursuits.
Tiffany Lucas to Assume General Counsel Role
Tiffany Lucas is set to succeed Schafer as general counsel starting February 1, 2026. Lucas, who has a long history with the North Carolina legal community, previously spent a decade at the North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ), where she provided legal counsel to the SBE and NCDPI.
Eric Davis expressed enthusiasm for Lucas’s appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Tiffany Lucas back. She is an exceptionally skilled attorney with a deep understanding of the legal, operational and policy landscape facing our schools.” Her expertise is expected to be a valuable asset to the board.
Lucas brings a wealth of experience from her 25-year legal career. Her professional journey began in Atlanta with prominent law firms, followed by significant roles with the Georgia Attorney General’s Office and the NCDOJ. She currently serves as chief deputy general counsel for Governor Josh Stein.
“Tiffany’s commitment to public service and her extensive experience in education law, state government and complex litigation will serve North Carolina well,” affirmed Green. Her North Carolina roots are deep, having earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and her law degree from Harvard University.
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