Meet the Buxton Civic Association Board Members

Jeff Dawson is a multi-generational native whose family was originally shipwrecked on Hatteras in the early 1600s.  His earliest life lessons were learned on the beaches of Buxton where he found his passion for anything active or sports related.  His family has owned and operated many businesses in Buxton throughout his life. He attended high school at St. Anne’s Belfield, a private school in Virginia, where he played any and every sport he could - most notably football, winning two state titles. He continued to play in college at Hampden-Sydney College. After graduating, he came back to the island and started a business, which he has owned and operated for twenty years. He now enjoys passing on his knowledge and passion for sports as a coach for his children and the island youth. When asked why he wanted to be a a part of the Buxton Civic Association, Jeff cited a strong desire to give back to the wonderful community he grew up in. He lives in Buxton with his wife Rachel, and two children.

Wendi Munden is a Buxton resident and Realtor at NC 12 Realty. She has called Hatteras Island home for over 25 years. As a surfer and water sports enthusiast, Wendi understands the vital importance of maintaining clean and open beaches.

Beyond her love for the ocean, Wendi actively serves as a valued board member for several organizations in the community. Through her involvement in these organizations, she contributes her time to supporting local initiatives and helping to organize community events that bring neighbors together. She and her husband are dedicated to their family and are actively involved throughout the community. Regarding her vision for the Buxton Civic Association, Wendi sees it as a "vital addition to the community, fostering unity and addressing diverse community needs today, tomorrow and beyond."

 Brian Harris has been a resident of Buxton, NC since 2012. Originally from Annapolis, MD, Brian has always been a lover of nature and an advocate for the environment. Brian and his wife Jessica moved to her hometown of Buxton shortly before their son was born. A trained and certified sushi chef, Brian took advantage of the fresh, local seafood and brought his skills to various local restaurants. He continued to pursue his career as a chef until 2018 when his father-in-law’s health issues demanded a full-time caretaker, a role that Brian took on. It was from his father-in-law John Couch – the founder of the Outer Banks Preservation Association, owner of the iconic “Red Drum Station”, and long-time unofficial “mayor” of Buxton, that Brian discovered a passion for preserving Hatteras Island as well as the power of local community members to push for change. When he isn’t working or caretaking, Brian loves to spend time with his wife and son, volunteers as a youth sports coach, and speaks out in support of the village of Buxton.  

 Heather Jennette is a Hatteras Island native and life-long Buxton resident. She grew up on the beaches here and worked in several local restaurants and stores. She graduated from Cape Hatteras Secondary School and completed her undergraduate degree in Biology from East Carolina University. She returned to ECU, ultimately earning a Masters' in Nursing, and has been working as a registered nurse for the past thirteen years. When she isn't working, she loves spending time with her family and taking advantage of all the amazing things the island has to offer. Speaking about her goals for the BCA, Heather said she "hopes to see the Buxton Civic Association grow and blossom into a community-focused organization that gives a long-overdue unified voice for the village." She lives in Buxton with her husband, Leo, and their three amazing children.