Maryann Stilwell named Employee of the Year
By Becky Long
Publisher
Clay County’s own Maryann Stilwell has been named N.C. Child Support Frontline Employee of the Year, distinguishing her among the best in her field.
“I am very honored to be recognized as 2022 Frontline Employee of the Year by the state office of Child Support Services,” she said.
The award was presented during the opening ceremony of the N.C. Child Support Conference held Aug. 24-26 in Cherokee.
Stilwell has worked for the Clay County Department of Social Services for 28 1/2 years — 16 of those years have been in child services.
When asked what she has learned about her role during that time, Stilwell said, “Unfortunately, one of many things I have learned is that many parents do not realize the importance of supporting their children consistently, or at all, financially and/or emotionally.”
The most rewarding aspect of Stilwell’s job is when she witnesses mutual concern for children. “When parents work together for the betterment of their children, laying their differences aside and putting the needs of the children first,” said Stilwell.
Her job obviously requires a lot of time and effort. The current open caseload is 258. Stilwell estimates she has worked more than 700 cases over her lengthy career. During that time, she has earned the respect of many, including DSS Director, Todd Goins.
“Maryann winning this award is an incredible honor. There are hundreds of child support agents all across the 100 counties in North Carolina. For Maryann to be singled out and win this award is a huge deal,” Goins said. “Yet, I know for a fact, there simply could not be anyone more deserving. Maryann consistently and relentlessly performs her job with dedication, care, integrity and grit.”
Former long-time DSS director and now county manager, Debbie Mauney also spoke highly of Stilwell’s work ethic.
“ I am so thrilled that Maryann was chosen to win this award,” Mauney said. “Maryann was hired for the child support position many years ago when the county took over the program from the state-operated system. From the beginning, Maryann hit the ground running, driving all over the state for training to learn one of the most challenging programs in DSS. “
Mauney witnessed Stilwell’s dedication and hard work first-hand.
“Over the years, Maryann has never lost sight that the purpose of the program is to help the children and families rise above poverty by having the support of both parents,” Mauney continued. “I’m in complete agreement with the State Child Support, that Maryann is the best and well deserving of this prestigious award.”
Ever the staunch advocate for children, Stilwell noted, “Children have the right to be financially supported by both parents to the best of the parent’s ability. Child Support Services is available to custodial parents/caretakers as well as non-custodial parents.”
The award may have distinguished Stilwell across the state, but through her career and personality, she had already left her imprint.
“She has faithfully served the children and families of Clay County in Child Support Services for 16 years and running. She is an asset to the Clay County DSS workplace and pitches in wherever and whenever she is needed, Goins said. “Maryann is tough and resilient as a child support agent and as a person. Maryann won the award out of the entire state because she is unique — there is only one Maryann.”
For more information on child support, visit: www.ncdhhs.gov or www.ncchildsupport.com.