Anson County Clerk to the Board Bonnie M. Huntley has received her North Carolina Certified County Clerk designation.

This designation was conferred on her by Michael R. Smith, Dean of the School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Huntley fulfilled all of the requirements prescribed by the School of Government and the North Carolina Association of County Clerks to the Board of County Commissioners.

"This achievement is a reflection of Bonnie’s commitment to her career, local county government and the community she serves," said Marcia R. Wilson, Wayne County Clerk to the Board and Chairman of the State Certification Committee. "Designation of North Carolina Certified County Clerk exemplifies her dedication and desire for personal growth and continuous enrichment of her knowledge and skills."

Huntley has been employed by the county for 25 years and has served as clerk to the board for nearly 20 of those years, said Lawrence Gatewood, county human resources manager.

"She’s a great asset to the Board of Commissioners, the county manager, county employees and this community," Gatewood added. "She’s very well respected for her high level of commitment, reliability and responsiveness.  She’s a terrific role model and a joy to work with."  

The North Carolina Association of County Clerks to the Boards of County Commissioners recently announced the launching of a state certification program for North Carolina Clerks to Boards of County Commissioners, deputy clerks and administrative aides to Regional Councils of Government. Organized in 1976 for the purpose of providing “…an opportunity to exchange ideas and techniques which may be used in the performance of Clerks’ duties...,” the association has broadened its focus over the years to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency and professionalism of its members through ever increasing means. At the outset, pioneers in the profession recognized the importance of being knowledgeable about current and proposed local, state and federal legislation. Continuing education has been a priority of the association and through collaboration with its partners— the University of North Carolina School of Government, the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners, and the International Institute of Municipal Clerks— members have had access to numerous training opportunities.

The new certification program, developed with the assistance of the UNC School of Government (SOG), will be administered by the SOG. Following completion of the required training, experiential and examination components, the NCCCC (North Carolina Certified County Clerk) designation will be conferred upon members who achieve the qualifications.

Thirty-nine clerks representing 35 North Carolina counties have currently qualified for the program, and were recognized at the 2010 Annual City and County Clerks School at the School of Government in January.