ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Rockingham County Clerk of the Circuit Court Chaz W. Haywood announced a new leadership structure within the Clerk’s Office.

Assistant Chief Deputy of Courts Danielle Ritchie has been appointed Chief Deputy of Courts, and Assistant Chief Deputy of Administration Alena Almeida has been appointed Chief Deputy of Local Records.

“This appointment reflects a new structure for our office,” said Haywood. “Rather than a single Chief Deputy, we now have two, each overseeing a distinct area of responsibility. Danielle’s expertise in court procedures and Alena’s experience managing daily operations will strengthen the work of every department. This is an exciting opportunity to build the next line of leadership and continue providing successful service to Rockingham and Harrisonburg residents.”

According to Haywood, Ritchie has worked for the Rockingham County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office since 2013 and has served in court leadership roles. In 2020, she received the designation of Master Deputy Court Clerk after completing leadership and management courses through the Virginia Court Clerks’ Association, the Department of Judicial Services, and the National Center for State Courts.

Almeida joined the Clerk’s Office in 2020 and previously served as Assistant Chief Deputy of Administration, where she managed day-to-day financial operations and jury management while supporting office administration.

Ritchie and Almeida recently completed the Harrisonburg Rockingham Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, further developing their leadership skills and understanding of the local community.

The Clerk’s Office also announced two additional personnel changes. Kimberly Rush, formerly a Deputy Clerk in the Land Records Division, has been appointed Senior Deputy Clerk of Land Records. Jessica Young, formerly a Deputy Clerk in the Civil Division, has been appointed Senior Deputy Clerk of the Civil Division. They join Senior Deputy Clerk of the Criminal Division Leslie Barb on the leadership team.