MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — Morris County Surrogate Heather J. Darling has earned her Certified Public Manager designation and was nominated for a national award for a project examining the use of artificial intelligence in the Surrogate’s Court.
Darling received her Certified Public Manager certificate during a graduation ceremony Friday, Sept. 25, at Rutgers University.
She was also nominated for the national Askew Award for her capstone project, “The Use of AI to Manage Non-Physical Reception Tasks within the Morris County Surrogate’s Court.” The award recognizes exemplary work on capstone projects completed through Certified Public Manager programs nationwide.
New Jersey’s Certified Public Manager program, offered through the Rutgers University-Newark School of Public Affairs and Administration, combines coursework in public management and leadership with a project intended to benefit each participant’s organization.
Darling’s capstone examined how an AI assistant could perform routine reception duties, including answering common questions and helping callers locate information, while maintaining access to court staff for those who need personal assistance.
The Surrogate’s Court implemented the AI receptionist, named “Hannah,” in January.
“Families often contact our office at difficult moments,” Darling said. “They deserve clear answers, convenient access, and compassion. I pursued this program because serving them well requires us to keep learning and improving.”
Darling pursued the designation to supplement her background in law and the private sector with formal training in public administration, according to the Surrogate’s Office.
The Morris County Surrogate’s Court handles matters including probate, guardianships and adoptions.
