Abbott Names Longview Child Support Employee Office Manager of the Year

LONGVIEW – Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott has recognized Stephen Stossel, office manager for the Child Support Division’s Longview field office, for what’s termed his commitment to Texas children. Stossel, who was named “Office Manager of the Year,” received the honor Tuesday at the Statewide Child Support Managers’ Conference in Austin. “Stephen Stossel is a phenomenal manager whose leadership of the Child Support Division’s Longview office has made a real difference in the lives of Texas children,” Abbott said. “Thanks to dedicated managers like Stephen, the Child Support Division continues to break new collection records and earn top rankings for efficiency and effectiveness. The Child Support Division and Texas families alike benefit from Stephen’s commitment to public service and excellence.”

Stossel was selected from among 83 office managers across the state based on recommendations from his peers and supervisors, with a particular focus on his willingness to go beyond his normal duties to serve Texas children, according to a news release from Abbott’s office. Stossel, a graduate of Mid-America Christian University, began his career with the Child Support Division in 2005 as a temporary employee. He was quickly promoted to child support officer and within six years of starting his career with the Child Support Division, he became an office manager.

Stossel, a Kilgore resident, was chosen to be the Child Support Division’s “Office Manager of the Year” because he has had great success leading an office with outstanding performance, according to the news release. Under his leadership, the Longview office was number one out of 56 child support offices for meeting state goals. In addition, says Abbott, he promotes productive cooperation within his office and has been successful in developing a harmonious and positive work environment.

Stossel’s colleagues praised his passion for providing young Texans the financial and medical support they need and deserve. “Mr. Stossel works smart and works hard,” said Regional Administrator Chip Arnold. “He focuses on results, obtains optimal outcomes from staff and exceeds the norm on a regular basis. As a leader in the office, he applies sound analytical thinking, is very methodical in solving problems and is highly respected by both his staff and peers. Mr. Stossel is a true child support champion and leader.” The Longview office handles more than 18,000 child support cases and collected $47 million in child support for the state fiscal year that ended August 31.