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2023 NC IPMA HR Annual Awards

Congratulations to our award recipients!

Past President Award 

Presented to a Past President of NC IPMA-HR who has retired or still works in public service and has made noteworthy accomplishments. 


Susan Nixon - Past President Award Recipient

Susan Nixon, Human Resources Director – Employed by the Town of Morehead City in January 2000 as Accounting Supervisor in the Finance Department where HR functions was managed at that time.  In 2008, promoted to Human Resources (HR) Director position to resume all personnel operations as the second HR Director for the City.  Susan is a member of the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), the Public Sector HR Association (PSHRA), the NC Chapter of the International Public Management Association Human Resources (NCIPMA-HR) and the Organization of Municipal Personnel Officers (OMPO).  She served as the Treasurer, President-Elect, President, and Past-President of NCIPMA-HR. In addition, she served on the NC League of Municipalities (NCLM) Human Resources Advisory Board and the Local Government Federal Credit Union (LCFCU) Advisory Council.  She is currently a sitting member on the NC Health Insurance Pool (NCHIP) Board.  While memberships and serving in various roles has played an important part in her career, she considers her HR role as the heart of the organization the most important.  Over the years, her love and passion for this profession and employees has inspired her to serve unselfishly and explore ways in making a difference in many lives.         

Message From Susan Nixon

I am truly humbled by this nomination.  I have seen many great leaders in this organization cross my path over the years, and am very grateful that you have recommended me for this great honor.  I am so sorry that I cannot be here to accept it, but I wanted to send this message your way to express my thanks for this tribute.  It has been a true privilege for me to be a part of such a great organization over the years.  It has enabled me to meet other HR professionals and build great business and friendship relationships.  Being a member of the Board gave me great insight to the function of the organization and the value it brings to NC HR individuals.  This organization is for you, and I would strongly encourage you to get involved – there are many opportunities on many levels.  In closing, this honor would not have been possible without the many colleagues that I have served with, so I thank you!   

Myers Johnson New Member Award

Presented to a member for meritorious contributions and support to NC IPMA-HR during his/her first 3 years of membership. This person will be acknowledged for their time, volunteer efforts, and willingness to help in a multitude of areas.


Justin Palmer - Myers Johnson Award Recipient