Walter R. Spencer III joined Disability Rights North Carolina in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in criminal justice, forensic psychology, and veteran support. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from North Carolina Central University, where he focused on gang intervention with juveniles and provided transitional services for ex-offenders. Walter later obtained a master’s degree in forensic psychology, conducting suicide assessments and briefing units on substance abuse and suicide prevention.
His career began with advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), which expanded into roles such as a security professional at Duke’s psychiatric ward and a case manager at the Veteran Life Center, helping veterans rebuild their lives. Walter is deeply committed to advocating for marginalized populations, driven by a strong sense of justice and a disdain for those who exploit others.
Outside of work, Walter enjoys playing video games, engaging in chess, reading self-help books, and spending time with his beloved mastiff, Cahnetheioux.