Athletic Director

Wake County

Joe Embree leads with a philosophy of “servant leadership,” using athletics as a vehicle to support an often socioeconomically underserved community. At Southeast Raleigh, he created a student-athlete leadership program that empowers young leaders to drive community service initiatives, uplifting both youth and adults and building stronger connections across the area. He is intentional about representation, involving student-athletes from all cultural backgrounds so the leadership and service they provide truly reflect the diversity of Southeast Raleigh.

Joe also founded The Athlete’s Corner, an innovative program focused on student-athlete mental health and the real-life pressures of balancing school, work, family, and leadership. In close partnership with on-campus mental health professionals, he has helped many students access the support and resources they need, earning recognition through a district leadership award and deep trust from his community.