The Cabarrus County Partnership for Children (CCPC) announced the upcoming retirement of Executive Director Ann Benfield, who will step down from her role on March 31, 2026, after nearly three decades of dedicated service to young children and families.

Benfield celebrated her final Voices for Children Luncheon as Executive Director on December 2, 2025, marking a meaningful milestone in her long and impactful career.

In a letter to community partners, Benfield shared the deep gratitude and mixed emotions surrounding her decision to retire. “Over the past 27 years, your unwavering support and love for the Partnership have been the foundation of our success,” she wrote. “While I look forward to retirement, I will deeply miss working alongside our incredible community partners, board of directors, Direct Service Providers, state and local leaders, and my beloved staff. You have made my job a joy and helped make Cabarrus County a place where children and families thrive.”

Benfield, who has devoted 50 years to serving children, joined the Cabarrus County community in 2009 and quickly became a catalyst for collaboration across early childhood education, health, and family support. Under her leadership, the Partnership has strengthened programs, expanded community engagement, and advanced innovative initiatives that continue to shape outcomes for Cabarrus County’s youngest residents.

As she reflected on the future of CCPC, Benfield expressed excitement for what lies ahead. “As we look forward, I am excited for the bright future that awaits—with a new logo, strategic plan, website, and leadership to guide the next chapter,” she shared.

Benfield also offered one heartfelt request as she prepares to step away: “Continue to support our youngest children—they need YOU.”

“The Partnership has been the highlight of my career,” she noted. “Since arriving in Cabarrus County, I have felt welcomed, supported, and inspired by your commitment to collaboration and service. Together, we have made a lasting difference.”

The Cabarrus County Partnership for Children Board of Directors selected a search committee last summer and will be making an announcement in early January 2026 of Ann’s replacement.

About the Cabarrus County Partnership for Children
The Cabarrus County Partnership for Children is a nonprofit organization committed to ensuring that every child enters kindergarten healthy and ready to succeed. Through community partnerships, early childhood education, health initiatives, and family support programs, the Partnership serves as a leader and convener in strengthening the early childhood system in Cabarrus County.

If you are interested in supporting the Partnership’s early childhood programs, click here.