JEFFERSON CITY, MO - State employees will be recognized today for their dedication to public service at the annual Missouri State Employee Recognition Day ceremony held from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the Harry S. Truman Building. This event is part of the Missouri State Employee Recognition Week celebration.
The event provides an opportunity to say "thank you" to the dynamic and innovative employees who touch the lives of Missouri citizens every day through their professionalism, commitment to service excellence, and diligence. The theme this year is, Missouri State "Show Me" Employees Show YOU Their Best!
State employees will have the opportunity to visit with representatives from state agencies, organizations, and local businesses that have displays and information highlighting their programs and services. Scheduled entertainment includes a performance by the Department of Natural Resources' employee group - The Earth Tones.
"This past year, hundreds of Missourians were impacted by a number of natural disasters," said Gov. Nixon. "During that time, Missouri state workers went above and beyond to ensure that critical services were available in areas impacted by the storms, floods and tornadoes. State Employee Recognition Day is a way to honor all employees for their dedicated service to Missouri citizens."
In conjunction with State Employee Recognition Week and Day, the annual Missouri State Employee Awards of Distinction were presented to state employees by Gov. Nixon during a ceremony in his office on Thursday, May 9. Recipients of the 2012 program were:
Heroism: Chad Embrey - Department of Transportation
Awarded to an employee who demonstrated exceptional judgment or courage in a potentially serious situation outside the scope of the workplace, or in a situation far above and beyond the duties and responsibilities of the employee's position.
Leadership: Michael Abdon - Department of Conservation
Awarded to an employee who exemplified and promoted outstanding leadership qualities and behaviors. The employee "sets the standard" for others to follow, and consistently performs at a superior level in achieving significant and tangible benefits his/her department.
Public Service: Mark Young - Department of Public Safety, Missouri National Guard
Awarded for outstanding dedication to the advancement of state service which enhances the quality of life to citizens that is far and above the employee's normal job requirements, or to an employee who as a result of volunteering their time and service, improved the quality of life for members of the community.
Safety: Chris Engelbrecht - Department of Transportation
Presented to an employee or team of individuals whom created and/or used innovative approaches to protect and/or ensure the health and safety of state workers or customers.
For more information about Missouri State Employee Recognition Day, visit www.serd.mo.gov.
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