Assistant County Manager Sally Shutt to retire after 20 years of service
By Staff Report, posted Jun 18, 2025 on BizFayetteville.com
Photo provided by: Cumberland County
Cumberland County Assistant Manager for Sustainability and Intergovernmental Affairs Sally Shutt will retire on June 30, 2025, after 20 years of distinguished service. Board of Commissioners and members of the County’s management team expressed gratitude for Shutt’s exceptional dedication to the community and best wishes in retirement.
“Sally has been a cornerstone of our management team, consistently demonstrating professionalism, innovation, and a deep dedication to the people of Cumberland County,” said County Manager Clarence Grier in a press release. “Her contributions have set a high standard for public service, and she leaves behind a lasting legacy of positive change.”
In recognition of her exceptional service, Shutt was presented with an Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor. This prestigious award is bestowed by the Governor to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service to the state, contributing significantly to their communities and organizations. Additionally, Congressman David Rouzer honored Shutt by gifting her an American flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol.
Photo provided by: Cumberland County
Shutt started her tenure with Cumberland County in 2005 as a public information specialist for the Cumberland County Public Library. In 2009, she transitioned to the role of Public Information Director within Cumberland County Administration. Her leadership and dedication led to a promotion as Governmental Affairs Officer in 2014, a role that expanded her responsibilities to include strategic initiatives and legislative affairs. In 2017, she completed the Leading for Results program at the UNC School of Government as a Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU) Fellow, recognizing her as one of 50 emerging leaders in local government statewide.
As Assistant County Manager, Shutt has been responsible for County departments including Board of Elections, Planning and Inspections, Soil and Water Conservation District, Solid Waste and Public Utilities. She also served as the program liaison for Intergovernmental Relations and Military Affairs, Legislative Service and Advocacy, and the Strategic Plan and Initiatives.
“Sally’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to transparency, community engagement, and excellence in public service,” said Board of Commissioners Chairman Kirk deViere in a press release. “Her vision and leadership have profoundly shaped the way Cumberland County communicates with its citizens, and her impact will be felt for years to come.”
Shutt was instrumental in the development of the Cumberland County Citizens’ Academy, a six-week program designed to educate and engage the community in county government operations. Since its inception in 2012, over 300 individuals have graduated from the academy, many of whom have gone on to serve on various appointed boards and committees. She also championed the establishment of the County’s own television channel, CCNCTV, and spearheaded the County’s presence on social media platforms.
Shutt’s contributions were recognized through numerous awards, including the Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU) 2018 Excellence in Innovation Award for the development and implementation of the Cumberland Alerts communications campaign, and a first-place award from the North Carolina City and County Communicators (NC3C) for Crisis Communications during Hurricane Florence.
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