Stafford County Appoints New Deputy County Administrator

Stafford County is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Deputy County Administrator. Erris Dunston will move into the spot left vacant by the resignation of former Deputy Michael Morris. Dunston is the former Assistant County Manager for Strong Communities in Guilford, North Carolina.

"Stafford is growing quickly, and with that growth comes both opportunity and complexity," said Stafford County Administrator Bill Ashton. "Dunston understands the demands of a fast-growing community and brings proven experience leading across multiple departments. Her leadership will strengthen our County Administration team and expand our capacity to meet the needs of Stafford today while preparing for what comes next."

At Guilford County, Dunston oversaw 10 departments including planning, IT, economic development, and emergency services. Prior to her time in Guilford, she was Acting County Manager and Assistant County Manager in Halifax County, NC, where she was responsible for public utilities, planning and information technology. In total, she has over 27 years of local government service.

"I'm excited to bring my experience to Stafford and work alongside the talented people who are helping shape the County's future," said Dunston. "My first priority is to listen and learn from the Board of Supervisors, our employees, and the community, and then turn what I hear into thoughtful solutions that help Stafford navigate its growth and continue delivering exceptional service."

Erris Dunston is a PhD candidate in Leadership Studies (expected May 2027) at North Carolina A&T University. She holds a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University and a Bachelor of Science in Geography from the same university. She also holds the following credentials: International City/County Management Association Credentialed Manager (ICMA-CM); Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA) from the University of North Carolina School of Government; and Certified Government Chief Information Officer (CGCIO).

Dunston will begin her employment with Stafford County on October 5, 2026, and will oversee the County's capital program, parks, utilities and operations departments.