Loudoun County Administrator Tim Hemstreet has appointed Jameka Jackson as the inaugural director of the county’s newly created Youth Services Department. Her appointment takes effect July 16 following a nationwide recruitment.

Jackson brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in juvenile justice, public safety, human services and government administration. Most recently, she served as a consultant for the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. 

She has also held leadership positions with the Chesapeake Department of Human Services and other public agencies in Virginia and North Carolina.

“Ms. Jackson has a deep understanding of the juvenile justice system, diversion and prevention programs, in addition to human services programming, and the challenges and opportunities facing young people today,” Hemstreet said in a statement. 

“She is a proven leader who I believe will be an important asset to Loudoun and play a key role in shaping the delivery of youth services within the county’s purview.”

Jackson earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from East Carolina University and a master”s degree in criminal justice from Troy University. She is also a Certified Public Manager.

The Youth Services Department was created after a state-initiated reorganization of the 20th District Court Service Unit serving Loudoun County. 

The department oversees the Loudoun County Juvenile Detention Center, the Youth Shelter at the Youth Services Center, and the Youth and Family Resource Center, which provides prevention programs, positive youth development activities, and referrals to community-based services for youth and families.