Shelby Co. community services director promoted to deputy CAO

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - On Wednesday, Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris announced the promotion of Dorcas Young Griffin, sister of Memphis Mayor Paul Young, to Shelby County Government deputy chief administrative officer.

“Dorcas Young Griffin has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout her tenure,” said Mayor Harris. “I am confident that she will continue to excel in her expanded role as deputy chief administrative officer. Not only is she a seasoned professional, but she is also ready to answer the call to innovate and embrace new initiatives.”

In her new role, she serves under Chief Administrative Officer Harold Collins alongside Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Dr. LaSonya Hall.

“I am excited that Dorcas Young Griffin has agreed to accept the position of deputy chief administrative officer, where she will work closely with Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Dr. LaSonya Hall,” said Collins. “Her extensive record of service, integrity, and commitment to our community makes her an outstanding addition to the team, and I am confident that she will continue to make significant contributions to Shelby County residents in her new role.”

Griffin also continues to serve as interim director of the Division of Community Services.

“I am grateful for the encouragement and confidence that Mayor Harris has put in me to take on this leadership role,” she said. “I know that government plays a key role in strengthening this community for our residents, so it is an honor to serve in this new capacity. I look forward to working in partnership with CAO Collins, Deputy CAO Hall, County leadership and staff as well as our community stakeholders to continue moving Shelby County forward.”

Griffin started her career with Shelby County Government in 2007, serving in several capacities, including public health coordinator, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program manager, and deputy director of the Division of Community Services.

She has been the director of the Division of Community Services since January 2018 and received Mayor Lee Harris’ Shining Star Award this past December due to her decades-long service to Shelby County Government.

Griffin is also a native Memphian and a graduate of East High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Memphis, and is currently working on her PhD in Urban Affairs at the University of Memphis.

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