Maria Hass
Cherokee County clerk to the board and assistant county manager Maria Wood Hass has been named the 2025 Howard Holly Outstanding Clerk of the Year.
She received the award on March 26 during the N.C. Association of County Clerk’s annual conference in Craven County, where it was presented at the organization’s annual banquet. During the same conference banquet, Hass was sworn in as president of the association for the 2026-27 term.
Hass is the first clerk from Cherokee County to receive the Howard Holly Outstanding Clerk of the Year Award. The honor is presented annually to a clerk whose work exceeds professional standards and has made lasting contributions to local government across the state.
Hass has dedicated 20 years of service to Cherokee County. She also serves as airport director. She has proven to be a successful and effective leader through her unwavering commitment to public service.
Hass is also active in the N.C. Association of County Clerks. She has served on the association’s board of directors and held numerous leadership roles, including director, treasurer, secretary and vice president.
Hass holds the designation of N.C. Master County Clerk, awarded through the Association, as well as the Certified Municipal Clerk credential from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.