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By Mike Barnhardt

Enterprise Record

When Kim Shuskey was hired as director of senior services, it was 1995 and the program was operated by the Town of Mocksville in the former cafeteria in the lower level of the Brock building.

Things have changed.

Under her leadership, the agency became a part of Davie County and has two dedicated buildings for Davie County Senior Services. It has gone from one to 13 employees. Some 36,000 times, Davie senior citizens entered the doors for programs, food and fellowship.

Shuskey retired last month, and was sent off in style, including being awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor the North Carolina governor can bestow. It was presented by Sen. Steve Jarvis and Rep. Julia Howard.

“I look at Kim and think, ‘that child has been here a long time’,” Howard said. “You are a big part of Davie County.”

Shuskey said her 28 years as senior services director was rewarding, but said the praise needs to be spread around more.

“I’m proud of what this agency has meant to this county,” Shuskey said. “It’s not me, it’s the team, and the support from this county. I’m going to miss everyone here. This has been our life in the Shuskey household.”

Her retirement party included entertainment by senior services Boogie Brigade, Zumba Class, Singing Seniors and of course, refreshments.

“Her commitment and dedication to Davie Senior Services is truly unmatched,” said Michelle Ellis,   assistant  director. “She has poured her heart and soul into this senior center … making it one of the best in the state and in the country.”

County Manager Brian Barnett said Shuskey quickly got him involved in senior services after he moved here two years ago. He still volunteers at Senior Games. “I got a first-hand look at how much fun that can be.”

Rick Cross, senior services advisory board chair, said the agency’s accomplishments are “a testament to Kim’s commitment and leadership.” “Not only are senior citizens better off, Davie County is better off because you’ve been here.”

County Commissioner Benita Finney thanked her for always going above and beyond what the job calls for.

Those who prepared her Order of the Long Leaf Pine application outlined some of the accomplishments under her tenure: certification as a senior center of excellence; opening a new building; developing master plans; being named the state senior citizen center of the year; added the Brock facility.

“Davie County Senior Services has nearly 9,000 visits to its sites each quarter, and its past and current accomplishments exemplify all that Mrs. Shuskey has done to bring seniors together and improve lives and health in the Davie senior community,” the application read.

“She has advocated and taken the senior center activities from a one-room, one-staff location to two sites with expanded opportunities. She has been a leader, committed worker, and fierce advocate for seniors. The has long hours … longer than she ever received payment for … to better the lives of all seniors in Davie County.”