Lacy Presnell is a seasoned attorney and dedicated leader whose professional journey spans over 45 years. With a robust career in law, he has made his mark not only as a legal expert but also as a dynamic contributor to numerous community organizations and professional boards. His reputation for excellence in business litigation, legal writing, and strategic thinking has established him as a trusted advisor in both professional and civic circles.

After earning his Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law in 1976, where he was a distinguished member of the Law Review, Lacy began his legal career at Boyce, Mitchell, Burns & Smith. Over the next decade, he honed his litigation skills and developed a deep understanding of business and legal strategy. In 1987, he joined Burns, Day, & Presnell, P.A., where he dedicated 36 years to providing top-tier legal counsel, ultimately retiring in December 2022.  In addition, he served as General Counsel of the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources in 2013 and 2014.  

Lacy’s leadership extends beyond the courtroom into the boardroom. He has served as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Triangle Community Foundation, where he guided philanthropic initiatives to benefit local communities. His leadership roles also include serving as Chair of the Board of Directors and Chief Volunteer Officer for the YMCA of the Triangle and Chair of the Board of Trustees for Ravenscroft School, reflecting his commitment to fostering education and community development.

Lacy served as General Counsel for the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, overseeing legal operations for a department of approximately 3,000 employees. During his two-year tenure, he managed complex legal matters related to environmental regulation, enforcement, and the administration of over 35 state parks, science museums, and other state attractions. Lacy’s role involved supervising a diverse portfolio of legal issues, including personnel disputes and more than 1,500 administrative proceedings and cases in state and federal courts. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in navigating the intricate legal landscape of environmental and natural resource management.

An active participant in the legal profession, Lacy was President of the Wake County Bar Association and Tenth Judicial District Bar from 2003 to 2004, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the interests of the legal community. His dedication to service continues today as a Member of the Board of Directors for the White Memorial Presbyterian Church Foundation, where he contributes to the foundation’s mission and governance.

In addition to his professional achievements, Lacy’s academic background is a testament to his commitment to excellence. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was inducted into the Order of Grail and Order of Old Well, prestigious societies that recognize leadership and service. This foundation set the stage for a career defined by integrity, discipline, and a passion for making a difference.

Throughout his career, Lacy has demonstrated a unique ability to balance the demands of a rigorous professional life with a dedication to community service. His tenure as Assistant Investigator for the United States Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaign Activities early in his career underscores his capacity for navigating complex, high-stakes environments with discretion and competence.

Lacy’s personal passions further enrich his professional narrative. A lifelong enthusiast of golf, he values the discipline and strategic thinking the sport requires—qualities that have translated seamlessly into his professional endeavors. His love for the game mirrors his approach to life and work: strategic, focused, and goal-oriented.

As he transitions into a phase of life with greater availability, Lacy is eager to leverage his decades of experience to serve on boards and advisory committees where he can make a meaningful impact. His combination of legal acumen, strategic leadership, and community dedication positions him as an invaluable asset to organizations seeking guidance and expertise at the highest level.

Character:

Lacy Presnell exemplifies integrity and ethical leadership, consistently prioritizing trust and accountability throughout his career. His dedication to serving both professional and community organizations highlights his commitment to making a meaningful and positive impact.

Knowledge:

With over 45 years of expertise in law, business litigation, and governance, Lacy possesses a profound understanding of navigating complex legal and organizational challenges. His educational background and extensive professional experience equip him with insights that drive effective solutions across industries.

Strategic:

Lacy’s career is defined by his ability to assess multifaceted issues and develop clear, actionable strategies that achieve impactful results. His strategic approach has been pivotal in both his legal practice and his leadership roles within community organizations and boards.

Communication:

A skilled and articulate communicator, Lacy excels in translating complex concepts into understandable terms for diverse audiences. His ability to foster collaboration and align stakeholders has been a key factor in his success as a leader and advisor.