Public Servant of the Year
We are proud to recognize Major Drew Hudson as the 2025 Public Servant of the Year.
This award honors someone who serves with integrity, professionalism, and heart. It celebrates a leader who doesn’t simply fulfill a job description, but truly lives out a calling. Public service is not about recognition. It is about responsibility. It is about showing up when it’s hard, staying steady when things are complicated, and leading with courage when it matters most. Major Hudson embodies all of this and more.
She holds a critical leadership role within Walton County and carries that responsibility with grace and strength. Her unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for others is evident in every decision she makes and every person she serves. She leads with character, professionalism, and compassion, always willing to go beyond what is required to ensure the safety and well-being of both her team and those in their care.
Major Hudson is known for giving generously of her time, talent, and resources. She builds strong relationships through collaboration and empathy, creating an environment where people feel supported, respected, and valued. Her leadership is not rooted in authority alone, but in trust, teamwork, and mutual respect.
This year, her leadership was especially visible during one of the most historic and complex operations in Walton County’s history: the move from the old jail to the new Public Safety Facility. This was not a simple transition. It required precision, endurance, coordination, and incredible leadership. Moving hundreds of inmates safely and successfully was a massive undertaking, and Major Hudson stood at the center of it all.
Throughout the process, she showed care and concern not only for her staff, but for every individual impacted by the transition. She balanced responsibility with empathy. Authority with humility. And leadership with compassion. Her team worked long days and endless weekends, and she was right there with them every step of the way. Not above them. Not behind them. But beside them.
She leads the largest division within the county with confidence and grace. She is known for her steady presence, her willingness to jump in at any level, and her ability to lead even the most challenging situations with calm professionalism. Her smile, her approachability, and her consistency remind us that strong leadership and kindness can coexist beautifully.
Major Drew Hudson models what true leadership looks like: firm when necessary, kind always, and humble regardless of title. Her impact will be remembered not just for what was accomplished, but for how it was accomplished.
Congratulations to Major Drew Hudson, our 2025 Public Servant of the Year. Walton County is stronger, safer, and better because of your service.