OSA Introduces Cardinal Award, Gives Inaugural Recognition to Morganton’s Finance Director

State Auditor Dave Boliek is pleased to introduce the Cardinal Award - a special distinction from the State Auditor's Office bestowed upon North Carolina's finest individuals. The new award recognizes those who advance government transparency, improve efficiency, and safeguard taxpayer dollars. Recipients exemplify the values of integrity, accountability, and service that the Cardinal Award honors.

"The Cardinal Award is something I wanted to bring to OSA so we can celebrate outstanding individuals in North Carolina who are going above and beyond with their service to the state," said State Auditor Boliek. "We want to show our greatest appreciation to citizens of all walks of life who make North Carolina a better place to live."

In honor of her dedicated service to the residents of Morganton, State Auditor Boliek presented Jessie Parris, Finance Director of Morganton, with the first Cardinal Award from the Office of the State Auditor. She was recognized in an official ceremony on Friday, where State Auditor Boliek presented her with the Cardinal Award for her extensive work managing Morganton's finances during and in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

State Auditor Boliek was joined by Rep. Hugh Blackwell (R-Burke) and Morganton City Manager Sally Sandy.

"At the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, it's perfectly fitting to applaud Ms. Parris for her behind-the-scenes work in aiding her community through the devastation," added State Auditor Boliek. "Managing state and federal funding hoops is no easy task, but Ms. Parris stepped up for the people of Morganton."

As Finance Director, Ms. Parris had a hands-on role with all recovery efforts that involved local, state, and federal funds. This included valuing assets, creating a damage inventory list, working through FEMA regulations, setting up a new capital project fund, and continuing the routine preparations for Morganton's annual audit. Her work throughout the year has been invaluable to the City of Morganton in its recovery from Hurricane Helene.

"The people who work in local government do it from the heart. They've dedicated their lives to public service, and finances is no different," said Parris. "It's an honor to serve Morganton and receive this award. I owe a special thanks to the city staff and finance team for all their help in serving the community."