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Employee of the Year

Employee of the Year

Steven Rankin

Mayor Jean Ann Wright honored Steven Rankin with the City of Stilwell Employee of the Year award at the January 6 City Council meeting

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Rankin has worked for the city since the end of February 2024, in maintenance, as caretaker of facilities. His responsibilities include cleaning, fixing and maintaining City of Stilwell properties. 


“Keeping supplies stocked and anything I can do to help keep a tight ship,” Rankin said.


He did similar work for the Cherokee Nation for several years. He had training in using and mixing harsh chemicals, with nine years of experience altogether and eight years of training. 


Rankin said he really enjoys his job.


“Working for the city is a great place to work because of the people I work around, the trust and independence I'm given to do my job, and the confidence I’ve gained working here,” he said. 


Maintenance is part of the Community Development Department. Community Development Director Shawn Noel said when asked by the mayor of his recommendation for this award, Steven was the first employee he thought of.

“Steven has been a great addition to the City. He has taken on many tasks, is always looking to grow his knowledge and is very personable,” said Noel. 


He has a broad span of knowledge that he attributes to his father and previous jobs he has held, Noel said. 

Steven Rankin receives the City of Stilwell Employee of the Year plaque from Mayor Jean Ann Wright


Above: Steven Rankin receives the City of Stilwell Employee of the Year plaque from Mayor Jean Ann Wright at the January 6 City Council meeting at City Hall.

photo: Renee Fite



“He has researched purchases for the City, he has assisted with Animal Control and has helped us with the parks. He is a true asset to the City that I hope we have around for a long time,” said Noel. 


The mayor described him as, “polite, conscientious and always helpful.”

“Steven goes above and beyond in treating all of our citizens and employees with respect,” said Wright. “He’s an exceptional employee and we are fortunate he works with us.”


Mayor Wright, Steven Rankin and family.

Above: Mayor Wright, Steven Rankin and his family

photo: Renee Fite



Family is a priority for the Rankin’s. Alice and Byron Rankin are his parents. 


He has been with wife Miranda for a decade, and married for seven years. She works in the Treasurers office at the Adair County Courthouse. He has a 16-year- old son and together they have a 7-year old son.

“They are both great kids,” he said.


The Rankins agree they want raise their family with the same experiences they had growing up here. 


“My wife and I want our kids to grow up in a small town, like Stilwell, because we like having our kids grow up in a place where everyone knows each other, where we have a close community surrounding us and supporting us. Stilwell is a great place to raise our family,” said Rankin. 


Playing music is his hobby. 


“Specifically playing drums. I've been playing music for 22 years now,” he said. “I’m looking forward to playing music, music shows and watching my kids do great in school!”


Rankin said he feel’s fortunate.


“I’ve been really lucky to have this job, I get to be home with my family at night and I have a community surrounding us that love us and want to see us succeed. Because of my last job, I never thought I'd have an opportunity like this. My wife and I have both been extremely lucky because of the city and our community. We are extremely grateful for the love and support,” said Rankin. 

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