Local Vegas

Clark County Honors Paula Cook for Public Service Excellence

Paula Cook, records administration manager of the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, was honored with “Paula Cook Day” and named 2024 Exemplary Public Servant of the Year by Smart Cities Dive. Her leadership since 2012 has modernized wedding services, improving efficiency and community relations while supporting over 75,000 annual licenses.

Newsdesk R. Michael January 22, 2026 2 min read

A Clark County official who helps shape tens of thousands of Las Vegas weddings each year received formal recognition this month for her leadership and long-term impact on public service.

County leaders honored Paula Cook, records administration manager for the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, with an official proclamation designating Monday, Jan. 12 as “Paula Cook Day.” The recognition also reflects Cook’s selection as a 2024 Exemplary Public Servant of the Year by Smart Cities Dive.

Two women holding a proclamation in front of a large red sculpture on a sunny day, with a cityscape in the background.

Recognition from County Leaders

Clark County Commissioners Michael Naft and William McCurdy presented the proclamation during a ceremony at the Marriage License Bureau. The Clark County Clerk’s Office joined the presentation.

Smart Cities Dive named Cook a 2024 honoree in December. The national publication recognizes public-sector professionals whose work delivers measurable results for their communities.

A Decade of Change at the Marriage License Bureau

Cook joined the Marriage License Bureau in 2012. She advanced from office specialist to supervisor and later became records administration manager.

During her tenure, Cook led operational updates that improved efficiency and customer experience. Her work helped modernize the marriage license process while preserving Las Vegas’ reputation as a global wedding destination.

Key initiatives under her leadership include redesigned keepsake marriage documents and the annual pop-up marriage license bureau at Harry Reid International Airport. The bureau now serves couples every day of the year and issues more than 75,000 licenses annually.

A person standing in front of a large red heart sculpture, holding a framed certificate, with palm trees and urban buildings in the background.

Industry and Community Impact

The local wedding industry has also recognized Cook’s contributions. In 2023, the Vegas Wedding Chamber awarded her the Wedding Industry President’s Award.

Through her involvement with the chamber, Cook works directly with wedding professionals across Southern Nevada. That collaboration helps county services adapt to industry needs while maintaining regulatory standards.

“Serving couples at such an important moment carries real responsibility,” Cook said. “I focus on making the process welcoming, efficient and worthy of their experience.”

Clark County Clerk Lynn Marie Goya said Cook’s leadership reshaped how the public views the Marriage License Bureau. “Her work reflects a strong commitment to service and accountability,” Goya said.

Public Service Beyond the Office

In addition to her administrative role, Cook represents the Clerk’s Office at community events, including Bridal Spectacular and the Clark County Fair. Colleagues say that outreach strengthens trust between county government and the public.

Clark County records the highest marriage rate in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nevada reports 24.6 marriages per 1,000 residents.

County officials say Cook’s recognition highlights the behind-the-scenes work required to support that volume while maintaining consistent service quality.

For more information about marriage licensing and related services, visit the Clark County Clerk’s Office website.