After 33 years of service to her county, Dillon County Department of Juvenile Justice Director Rhonda Dew has taken a statewide position with the department and therefore will no longer serve in the office she has made into one of the best in the state.
“Rhonda is the epitome of professionalism and competence,” said Assistant Solicitor Shipp Daniel, who is responsible for prosecuting juveniles. “She is widely respected as the best in her business, and Dillon County will miss her leadership. She has left her mark on all of us, especially the juveniles whose lives she has made better.”
“Rhonda Dew has been and continues to be a most valued employee at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice,” said Margaret H. Barber, DJJ Director. “Her high level of professionalism, ability to build and nurture relationships, attention to details and strong organizational skills exemplify the employee we seek to work with SC’s youth and their families. Although Mrs. Dew will be leaving her tenured position as the Dillon County DJJ Director, we are delighted she has accepted a new role with us as the Policy and Training Manager for the Division of Community Services.”
Last Wednesday afternoon, Daniel and the DJJ office staff arranged a small surprise ceremony in Dew’s honor. Court of Appeals Judge James E. Lockemy led a few people in speaking about Dew’s career.
“Rhonda always used her power and authority in a virtuous way,” said Lockemy. “Her constant focus was on the needs of the family, the victims and the chance to change a misguided child.”
Daniel then presented Dew with a plaque commemorating her 33 years of service to the citizens of Dillon County.