Dennis Mitchell knew early on in life that public service would be his calling. After high school, Dennis decided to join the United States Marine Reserves. It was during his career in United States Marines, where he sharpened his leadership skills. “People looked up to me because I was not afraid to speak up for my fellow Marines,” said Dennis.

After basic training, Dennis decided to enroll in college. After a short stint at Saint AugustineCollege, he transferred to earn his Bachelor of Science from EastCarolinaUniversity. While studying Computer Science, Dennis worked part time in a group home for at risk children. It was then that he decided to partner with his friend Teresa Lee to open a business that caters to help people cope with Mental Health disorders.

Dennis Mitchell became CEO of ReStart Inc. in 2003 and along with his partner, has led it to become one of the most respected Mental Health agencies in Eastern North Carolina, with over 200 employees. ReStart Inc. serves individuals in 13 counties throughout Eastern North Carolina. “I am a people person and anytime I can give people enough hope to help themselves, I feel I have done my job.”

In 2004, Dennis Mitchell was recognized by the Daily Reflector as one of the area’s “Most talented individuals under the age of thirty”. He has served as President of the SCLC and is a member of numerous other groups. Currently, he is the President of the Pitt County Young Democrats and is the 3^rd vice chair of the Pitt County Democratic Party.

Dennis served in Operation Enduring Freedom and was awarded the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, the Select Marine Corps Reserve Medal, the National Defense Medal and served honorably for 8 years in the USMC.

Dennis currently serves on Greenville’s Redevelopment Commission and has direct oversight of the redevelopment and revitalization of Downtown and West Greenville.