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Tuesday, March 19, 2024

DSS names new director

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The interim director of the New Hanover County Department of Social Services will fill that role permanently. Michelle Winstead, who was named to lead the department temporarily after the retirement of former Director LaVaughn Nesmith.

Nesmith had been suspended with pay for an extended period of time when he announced his decision to leave the post as of April 1.

Winstead, who was assistant director over financial assistance programs, will move into the director’s job permanently July 7.

According to a press release from New Hanover County, Winstead was DSS director in Warren County and has 22 years in the health and human services field. DSS board Chairman Jonathan Barfield said the board interviewed four people, and Winstead stood out.

The press release said Winstead also has been supportive of the county’s push for more collaboration between DSS and the health department, which serve many of the same clients.

Her salary will be $112,000 per year.

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