COLUMBUS — Polk County commissioners were introduced this week to the county’s new senior services director.

The commissioners met Monday and were introduced to Haley Suskaurer. Suskaurer began employment recently at Polk County’s Meeting Place Senior Center. She replaces Pam Doty, who retired recently. 

Polk County Consolidated Human Services Director Josh Kennedy introduced Suskaurer, saying with her experience, his department is excited to see what she can do.

Suskaurer said she grew up in eastern North Carolina and has lived in western North Carolina for seven years. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and has a master’s degree in public health with a concentration in health promotion.

She said she has several years experience working with seniors in rehabilitation centers, and she recently left McDowell County.

“So, I’m excited,” Suskaurer said. “I’m excited about senior services in Polk County. And we have a lot of things on the horizon, one of those being senior games coming up.”

Polk County operates three senior centers, including the main office, the Meeting Place, off Skyuka Road in Columbus, as well as one in Green Creek and one in Saluda.

The senior centers are available to enhance the quality of life for senior residents in the county, providing activities and meals for seniors. Recreational, social and recreational activities are available, including congregate and home-delivered meals.

To contact Suskaurer, people may email her at hsuskaurer@polknc.org or call her at 828-894-0001.