New Hanover County has appointed new directors for three of its departments. Michelle Taylor is the new Director of Community Justice Services, effective July 1, succeeding Chris Preston after his retirement. Amy Mead will take on the role of Director at the New Hanover County Arboretum and Cooperative Extension starting July 15, following Lloyd Singleton’s recent retirement. Jodi Rich is set to become the Director of Parks and Gardens beginning September 16, replacing Tara Duckworth who will retire in September.
Taylor joined Community Justice Services in 2005 and has served in various capacities. Her latest position was Manager of the Adult Enhancement Services Division. She led significant system changes that earned two awards from the National Association of Counties for innovation. Taylor graduated from the University of Mount Olive with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology and is a Certified Pretrial Services Professional.
Mead started with North Carolina’s Cooperative Extension program in 2013, working across New Hanover, Brunswick, and Columbus counties. In February 2024, she became Director of the Brunswick County Cooperative Extension office. Mead returns to New Hanover County where her career began as a Program Assistant. She holds a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences and certifications as an arborist and pesticide applicator.
Rich has been part of the Parks and Gardens Department since 2012. Since 2022, she has been the Guest Services Manager for Airlie Gardens, managing operations and coordinating with Airlie Gardens Foundation on various projects. Rich possesses a Master’s degree in Public Administration and is certified by the National Recreation and Park Association as a Park and Recreation Professional.
For more details about these departments, visit their respective websites: Community Justice Services, the Arboretum, or Parks and Gardens.
