A Roanoke Rapids native last week was appointed as a district court judge in Mecklenburg County Judicial District 26.

Rhonda Patterson is a 1999 graduate of Roanoke Rapids High School.

Patterson’s appointment was one of two that Governor Roy Cooper announced last week — the other was the appointment of Robert “Bob” Roupe as superior court judge in Duplin, Jones, Onslow and Sampson counties.

“These appointees are knowledgeable leaders, and have served their communities well over the years,” said Governor Cooper. “I’m grateful for their willingness to continue serving our state in these new positions.”

Patterson was appointed to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Rickye McKoy-Mitchell. 

She is currently the managing attorney at The Patterson Law Office. 

Previously, she was an adjunct instructor at Johnson C. Smith’s Metropolitan College and an associate at K&L Gates. 

She received her bachelor of arts and juris doctor from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“I am a proud Roanoke Rapids native and graduate of RRHS,” Patterson said. “So many teachers, pastors and community leaders in Roanoke Rapids have contributed to my success. I am grateful for the support shown to me by my hometown and look forward to sharing more about my journey to inspire other students in the area."