Woman of Many Hats: Celebrating the Newly Renamed Catherine M. Wilson Center
Trailblazer. Grandmother. Social worker. These were just some of the titles Catherine M. Wilson wore. Now her name will live on in Mecklenburg County history, as it adorns the social services building at 301 Billingsley Road.
Mecklenburg County celebrated the official renaming of the Catherine M. Wilson Center on Sept. 27. The event was attended by Wilson’s family, friends, former coworkers, Delta Sigma Theta sorority sisters, social workers, church members, County leadership and others. All gathered to honor the legacy of Mecklenburg County’s first African American program administrator.
The dedication began with a video highlighting Wilson’s impact on the social work profession and her unwavering commitment to Mecklenburg County. After being named the County’s director of Youth and Family Services in 1978, she oversaw investigations of alleged abuse and neglect, was responsible for foster care placements, and helped recruit adoptive parents. She retired on Jan. 1, 1987, after 38 years of service.
“Mrs. Wilson was more than a pioneer—she was a quiet force for justice and dignity in the lives of countless families,” said Commissioner Arthur Griffin, who led the efforts to rename the building in her honor. “Mrs. Wilson was the kind of public servant who made us all better—whether you worked with her, challenged her, or simply watched her lead with grace. May her name on that building inspire generations of social workers, advocates, and public servants to follow her example—and to never forget who we are here to serve.”
Wilson’s granddaughter, Lisa Tucker Grier, shared fond memories of her “Mamaw,” including her affinity for Coca-Cola and love for her family and community. Her grandson, Lewis Lamont Tucker, shared the way that Wilson had filled in the role of mother after his own mother passed from cancer.
Several examples from Wilson’s hat collection were on display at the event, a testament to her sharp style and insistence on looking her absolute best whether at church or at work.
County Manager Mike Bryant closed the ceremony, saying that as the second African American county manager, he stands on the shoulders of Wilson’s accomplishments.
“Catherine M. Wilson walked, labored, and sacrificed so that those that followed in her footsteps could soar to greater heights,” Bryant said. “The Mecklenburg County community is truly in a better place today because of her dedication, contributions, insight, and sacrifices. I urge us all to embody the fierce grace, compassion and professionalism that Mrs. Catherine M. Wilson brought to the heart work that we call public service.”
The building at 301 Billingsley Road offers social and economic services. It is scheduled to undergo an extensive renovation in 2026.