Mocksville deputy clerk preparing for new role
Published 12:20 pm Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
By Jeanna Baxter White
Word Master Media Group
Mocksville Deputy Town Clerk Emily Quance has achieved the Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC).
This reflects her dedication to public service and the town’s commitment to professional development, said Town manager Ken Gamble.
The designation goes to those who meet educational requirements and demonstrate a history of making meaningful contributions to their local government, community, and state.
The process requires candidates to complete 120 hours of coursework in public administration, local government law, records management, and ethics.
Quance’s achievement is a testament to her hard work and commitment to lifelong learning, Gamble said.
Quance plays a key role in supporting local government operations. She works alongside Town Clerk Lynn Trivette to manage public records, prepare meeting agendas and minutes, and uphold transparency and efficiency in town affairs – critical to maintaining the integrity of Mocksville’s democratic processes and delivering accurate, timely information to residents.
Quance’s path toward becoming a Certified Municipal Clerk began in 2021, encouraged by Trivette and Gamble, who were planning for a seamless leadership transition ahead of Trivette’s eventual retirement. Balancing her duties, Quance dedicated nights and weekends to coursework, homework, and exam preparation.
Gamble expressed his pride in her accomplishment:
“We are so proud of Emily for reaching this milestone in her career. The town board and leadership team is dedicated to growing and developing our staff so they can better serve the community and assume essential leadership positions.
“This certification is a significant milestone in Emily’s professional journey, and we are excited to see her continue to embrace leadership roles within the town. With her newly acquired skills and knowledge, we look forward to her taking on even greater responsibilities and contributing to the continued growth and success of our local government,” Gamble said.
In her congratulatory message, IIMC President Lisa Garcia, MMC, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning in local government. “In light of the speed and drastic nature of change these days, lifelong learning is not only desirable; it is necessary for all in local government to keep pace with the growing demands and changing needs of the citizens we serve. Your city can take immense pride in Emily’s educational accomplishments and achievement of this milestone.”
Reflecting on her professional journey, Quance shared the impact of mentorship on her success.
“Mentors impart wisdom not only through what they teach but also through how they listen, how they challenge us, and how they believe in our potential, even when we struggle to see it ourselves,” Quance said. “Ken (Gamble) has consistently encouraged me to ‘stretch’ beyond my limits, leading by example with his integrity and resilience. Lynn’s (Trivette) mentorship goes beyond her lessons – she inspires me to have confidence in myself while helping me develop skills and a strong work ethic. It’s clear that none of us can succeed alone.”
Being a town clerk is more than just an administrative role for Quance; it is an opportunity to serve her community and contribute to the town’s growth.
“I take pride in staying organized, assisting others, and making a positive difference in the community. Being a town clerk is a rewarding role because it provides the opportunity to serve both the community and the town board in a meaningful way. The position blends administrative responsibilities with public service, offering a dynamic mix of tasks and new challenges every day.
“I love the Town of Mocksville and never want to leave. I want to retire here; this is my home.”
Emily’s career with the town spans six and a half years. She was promoted to human resources director in September 2023 after serving as deputy town clerk and human resources specialist over the past several years.
Her role as HR director involves overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, compensation and benefits, and more.
Quance will take on the role of interim town clerk in January 2025, as Trivette assumes the role of interim town manager.
As clerk, she will serve as the official secretary to the town council and will be responsible for managing all official records and legal documents for the town, including maintaining the official seal. Key duties include overseeing public records, preparing ordinances and resolutions, managing records requests, and ensuring proper record retention and disposal. The town clerk also executes legal documents, attesting to their compliance with statutes and local ordinances.
The clerk attends council meetings and related sessions, recording proceedings and preparing minutes. As a liaison, the clerk communicates with town staff, council members, and the public on matters such as complaints and requests.
Originally from Winston-Salem, Quance and her family have lived in Davie County for the past 17 years. She has strong family roots in the area, with her grandfather and other relatives calling Davie home.
Quance and her husband, Jonathan, originally chose Davie because of its central location between her job in Winston-Salem and his job in Mooresville. Their three children, Nic, Rachel, and Natalie, have been active in Davie County schools.
Outside of work, Emily is an active community member. She served as PTO president at Cornatzer Elementary for six years and has volunteered for Fork Baptist Church, including Vacation Bible School director for nine years. She now serves on the finance committee and assists with AWANA and VBS.
Emily is also the president-elect of the Mocksville Rotary Club and serves on the youth services committee.