GASTONIA, N.C. (News Release) – Following the retirement of Angela Karchmer, Shannon Myers will join Gaston County as the new Department of Social Services (DSS) Director. She begins the role on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.  Myers, who is currently pursuing her Ph. D in Organizational Development and Leadership from the University of Arizona Global Campus, comes to Gaston County from Mecklenburg County Social Services. There, she served as the Assistant Division Director overseeing Adult Social work and Community Social work program areas and the Age-Friendly Mecklenburg initiatives for the Services for the Adult Division.  Her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations, staff development and organizational improvement, and improving the wellbeing of all residents makes her the best choice for the Gaston County Department of Social Services, said Assistant County Manager Steve Eaton. “Shannon brings a wealth of passion and experience to Gaston County. She has a proven track record of strategic planning, helping to create opportunities, and innovation in how services are offered to residents,” Eaton said. “Her concern and ideas for the wellbeing of staff and the professional development of staff jumped out at me as most impressive.” Myers, a proud mother of four, earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Business from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus.  “I am super excited to be coming on board. I look forward to meeting the Gaston County DSS staff and working collaboratively to serve the employees and Gaston County residents,” Myers said.