Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson retires after nearly four decades of service
PITTSBORO, N.C. (WTVD) -- Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson officially retired on Wednesday after nearly four decades of service.
Roberson's retirement was celebrated during a ceremony at Northwood High School, which was attended by family, friends, current and former colleagues, elected officials, and current and former sheriffs from across North Carolina.
The location held special meaning for Roberson, who is a graduate of Northwood, as is his wife, Annette. He was first sworn in as sheriff in 2016, with the ceremony also taking place at the high school.
Roberson, a lifelong Chatham County resident, began his public service career as an emergency medical technician before working as a paramedic, firefighter, police officer, detention administrator, instructor, chief deputy, and ultimately sheriff.
During the retirement ceremony, Assistant Superintendent of Chatham County Schools Chris Blice described Roberson as "a textbook example of a servant leader."
"A servant leader puts himself last. He puts the people that he works with and the people that he serves ahead of himself 24/7," Blice said. "That is exactly what Sheriff Roberson has been for us. He's been a leader here, and he's been a leader on the state level. He has made a difference in everything he's done and for the right reasons."
Guest speaker the Rev. Dr. Anthony J. Davis, president of Livingstone College, also reflected on Roberson's effect on the community.
"Your service has not only safeguarded our streets but has also fostered a sense of security and belonging among all residents regardless of their race or socio-economic status," Davis said. "You've been selfless, and it shines through in every action you've taken, reminding us that a leader is defined not just by their position but by their heart and dedication to the individuals that they've been called to lead and serve."
Roberson told those in attendance that through his many public-service jobs, his purpose never changed.
"Serving this community has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life. I've been a paramedic, a police officer, a firefighter, a jail administrator, I've worked for Emergency Management and Operations, I've been a chief deputy, and I have been sheriff," Roberson said. "And though the uniforms changed, the mission never did. The mission has always been to help people, to do the right thing, and to leave it better than you found it."
Chief Deputy Steve Maynor credited Roberson with preparing the agency's next generation of leaders.
"Your example has made a difference," said Maynor. "The way you led, the way you handled difficult moments, the way you care about the office and the community has helped prepare many of us for the responsibilities ahead. You have helped move the Sheriff's Office to another level, and you have prepared this leadership team to move forward with professionalism."
Madison Kilgore, Director of the Central Office for Gov. Josh Stein, presented Roberson with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina's highest civilian honor.
"Sheriff Roberson's dedication to not only Chatham County but to the state as a whole is a true reflection of his character," Kilgore said.
Roberson was also presented with his service badge and service weapon in recognition of his distinguished career.
"To the citizens of Chatham County, thank you for putting your trust in me. The only real power of this badge is the public's trust ... And there's no greater honor than to serve in the place you call home," Robeson said.
Roberson will remain in the public eye -- next week, he will begin serving as the District 3 representative on the Chatham County Board of Commissioners.
