News About Town: Toward the end of 2021, Town Manager Hazen Blodgett announced his retirement. Having served the Town of Matthews for 18 years, Blodgett provided six months to complete the hiring process. The Board of Commissioners worked with Developmental Associates to conduct a nationwide search, resulting in a decision to promote Assistant Town Manager Becky Hawke to the seat.
Hawke earned a B.A. in Communication Studies (Hollins University), an M.S. in Corporate and Professional Communication (Radford University), and a Masters Certificate in Human Resources Management (Cornell University). She is currently completing a Master of Public Administration degree through the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill.
Mayor John Higdon expressed confidence in Hawke’s ability, “Becky has demonstrated her ability to lead and inspire staff, solve problems creatively, and improve organizational effectiveness. We are very fortunate to have someone with her talent and skill set leading our organization.”
Blodgett will retire on March 31, 2022; Hawke will begin her new role as Town Manager on April 1, 2022.
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News Around Town: Art students from Butler High School have their work on display in the upstairs gallery of McDowell Arts Center, 123 E McDowell St. Matthews Artist Guild partnered with the local high school to provide space and support for the show. The galleries are usually open during the day but call in advance of visiting to make sure they’re open (704-321-7275). The show ends on March 31, 2022.
One Good Thing: The Matthews Free Medical Clinic is busy planning its Annual Golf Tournament for April 25, 2022, at Raintree Country Club. In order to swing the event, sponsorships are needed and are available in a range of costs from $200 up to $10,000. Contact Amy Carr at 704-841-8882, with questions or for full details regarding sponsorship packages.