WS Chronicle

Forsyth County Deputy Manager Damon Sanders-Pratt received an Assistant Manager of the Year award from the N.C. City and County Management Association during its President’s Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 7.

Sanders-Pratt was one of two recipients of the award, the other being Henderson County Assistant Manager Ann Brantley, which was presented at the Benton Convention Center as part of NCCCMA’s Winter Seminar.

Sanders-Pratt joined Forsyth County in 1996 after a short stint as town manager of Walkertown. He served as a budget & management analyst for 11 years before being promoted to special assistant to the manager. The nomination form describes how Sanders-Pratt navigated a challenging transition for Tanglewood Park, which had been operated as a separate authority, and integrated it into the county. County Manager Dudley Watts recalled how impressed he was with the results.

“Damon managed the task with a firm and fair approach that deepened his respect with employees and coworkers,” wrote Watts. “His success ultimately led to his promotion as deputy manager.”

Watts went on to praise Sanders-Pratt for his humor, empathy, compassion and professionalism. Praise from Human Resources Director Shontell Robinson was also included.

“Damon treats every person with civility, trust and respect and acts as a selfless mentor,” she wrote.

Animal Control, Parks and Recreation, Human Resources, and the Public Library System are among the departments that report to Sanders-Pratt. He’s overseen numerous large projects like the construction of new libraries and contracting with the Forsyth Humane Society for cat and dog intake, sheltering and adoption services at the county animal shelter.

Later that day, Sanders-Pratt told county commissioners he was honored by the award and that he enjoyed working at a job that let him help people while doing important projects. He said he appreciated his coworkers and county leadership.

“It’s been a treat and I’m looking forward to continuing to do what I do here,” he said.