06/06/2026
One of the questions I've been asked most since announcing my candidacy for Clerk of Courts is, "Why?"
Why would I choose to do this? Why do I feel I'm qualified for the role? Why now?
The answer is pretty simple.
Public service has always been at the heart of who I am. Throughout my career, I have been drawn to work that helps people, strengthens communities, and makes a positive difference in the lives of others. Whether in healthcare, ministry, or local government, service has been the common thread connecting every role I've held.
I began my professional career as a Medical Assistant in a busy Internal Medicine practice, where I worked directly with patients and healthcare providers to help people navigate some of the most challenging and vulnerable moments of their lives. The role required compassion, professionalism, attention to detail, organization, and the ability to build trust with people from all walks of life.
Later, I served as Director of Faith Formation, where I had the privilege of working with youth and families as they learned, grew, and strengthened their connections to their faith and community. That experience reinforced the importance of communication, leadership, relationship-building, and creating environments where people feel supported and valued.
For the past nine years, I have proudly served Door County through my work at Door County Health & Human Services. In my various roles, I have worked alongside community members, families, partner organizations, and county staff to improve services, support programs, and help ensure public resources are used effectively and responsibly. My current role as Total Quality Management Specialist focuses on organizational improvement, accountability, policy development, data analysis, and helping departments operate efficiently while maintaining a strong focus on the people we serve.
While these positions may seem different on the surface, they have all required many of the same qualities: integrity, confidentiality, customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, communication, and a commitment to treating every person with dignity and respect.
In recent years, I have also invested heavily in my own education and professional development. I earned my bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay in 2024 and am nearing completion of my Master of Public Administration degree. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of public policy, leadership, organizational management, budgeting, and the responsibilities that come with serving the public.
My husband and I are proud to call Door County home. We have built our lives here, raised our family here, developed lasting friendships, and become invested in the success of our community. Through his career in law enforcement and mine in public service, we have both seen firsthand the importance of strong public institutions and the dedicated professionals who serve our residents every day.
So why now?
I believe this opportunity brings together everything I have been working toward throughout my career. It combines my passion for public service, my professional experience, my educational background, and my desire to serve our community in a leadership role.
The Office of the Clerk of Court plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the judicial system. It requires professionalism, accuracy, accountability, and a commitment to serving the public fairly and respectfully. These are responsibilities I do not take lightly.
I am running because I believe my experience, education, and commitment to public service have prepared me for this role. Most importantly, I am running because I care deeply about Door County and believe in serving our community with integrity, respect, and dedication.
I would be honored to earn your trust and the opportunity to serve as your next-Door County Clerk of Courts.
~Shannon
