FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 29, 2025

Nelson County Announces Hiring of New Director of Social Services

Nelson County, VA — Nelson County is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Grace Carter Deshong as the County’s new Director of Social Services, effective January 1, 2026.

Ms. Deshong brings more than 20 years of public service experience, including over a decade of leadership in human services, child welfare, and community-based programming. She returns to Nelson County after serving as Division Supervisor with the Central Shenandoah Valley Office on Youth, where she oversaw multiple youth and family service programs, managed budgets and staff, secured grant funding, and strengthened partnerships across jurisdictions.

Ms. Deshong is well known to the Nelson County community, having previously served in several roles at the Nelson County Department of Social Services, including Family Services Supervisor, Family Services Specialist IV, and Foster Care and Adoption Specialist. Her work included oversight of Child Protective Services, Foster Care, Adoption, Adult Protective Services, and In-Home Services, as well as collaboration with the courts, law enforcement, schools, and regional service providers.

“Grace Deshong brings an exceptional combination of experience, integrity, and deep local knowledge,” said Candy McGarry, Nelson County Administrator. “Her proven leadership and commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens make her uniquely qualified to lead the Department of Social Services during a period of growth and transformation for the County.”

Ms. Deshong holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Averett University and a Master of Arts in Executive Leadership from Liberty University. Her professional background also includes nearly nine years with the Virginia State Police, further strengthening her experience in public safety, crisis response, and interagency collaboration.

As Director, Ms. Deshong will oversee all social service and financial assistance programs, supervise staff, manage departmental operations and budgets, and work closely with County leadership, the Local Social Services Advisory Board, and community partners to ensure high-quality, responsive services for Nelson County residents.

“I am honored to serve Nelson County in this role,” said Ms. Deshong. “This community has shaped my career, and I am deeply committed to supporting our staff and ensuring that individuals and families have access to the resources they need to thrive. I look forward to building on the department’s strong foundation and guiding it into the future.”

Ms. Deshong’s appointment comes as Nelson County continues its significant investment in human services infrastructure, including the construction of a new state-of-the-art Department of Social Services building, scheduled for completion in late 2026 or early 2027.

For more information about Nelson County and its services, visit www.nelsoncounty-va.gov

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