Erris J. Dunston

Erris J. Dunston serves as the assistant county manager for Strong Community in Guilford County, North Carolina, where she brings over two decades of distinguished experience in local government service. Her career epitomizes her personal motto: "The measurement of your existence is based on your willingness to serve others."

Since joining Guilford County in 2021, Dunston has played a pivotal role in shaping the county economic and community development landscape. She manages departments that face the community: planning, inspections, emergency services, animal services, county security, and Cooperative Extension.

With more than 27 years in local government, including 19 years specialized in community and economic development, Dunston has held several leadership positions throughout her career, including planning director and assistant to the city manager. Her journey in public service began as a planning technician, demonstrating her commitment to understanding government operations from the ground up.

Dunston holds a bachelor's degree in geography and a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University. Her professional credentials include certifications as a Government Chief Information Officer and ICMA-CM (International City/County Management Association-Credentialed Manager). She serves on the board of CIVIC PRIDE.

She is also a trained professional executive coach and project manager. She serves as a leader in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives.

An accomplished professional who balances her public service with personal pursuits, Dunston is an avid photographer who enjoys capturing artistic memories through her lens. She fulfills multiple roles as a wife, stepmom, and dog mom, bringing the same dedication to her personal life as she does to her professional endeavors.