Awards Announced at Statewide Staff Meeting in Austin
AUSTIN - The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) announced today the recipients of the inaugural statewide TDEM Distinguished Staff Awards.
TDEM’s Traditions Committee, in collaboration with agency leadership, created the seven awards to acknowledge the service, dedication, leadership, and significant contributions by agency staff. Nominations were submitted by fellow staff members.
The awards were bestowed in coordination with TDEM's fourth anniversary as a standalone state agency under The Texas A&M University System.
“TDEM is made up of selfless public servants who are passionate about supporting the people of Texas,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “These recognitions highlight the dedication of our agency personnel who serve Texas communities throughout all phases of emergency management.”
Newcomer Award – Shelby Shaw: Travel & Card Services Lead – Austin, TX
Recognizes a new employee (between 1 and 3 years at TDEM) who has made individual significant contributions and showcases creative ideas.
Innovator Award – Sam Miller: FieldOps Section Chief, Operations Technology – San Antonio, TX
Recognizes an individual who exceeds their daily job duties, leads by example, and provides innovative ideas.
Role Model of the Year Award – Lana Johnson: Unit Supervisor, Strategic Planning Unit – Austin, TX
Recognizes an individual’s accomplishments as someone who exemplifies leadership, contributing to the success of their division or region.
Spotlight Award – Melissa Brown: Executive Assistant – Houston, TX
Recognizes an individual’s commitment to TDEM as someone who has significantly increased productivity & efficiency.
Life Saving Award – Shelly Cleveland: District Coordinator – Fort Stockton, TX
Recognizes exemplary emergency response efforts.
Heart of TDEM Award – Blair Ferrier: Systems Support Specialist – Austin, TX
Recognizes an individual’s donation of time as someone who advocates in their community in support of TDEM's mission.
Chief Award – Dorian Davis: FieldOps Unit Chief, Operations Technology – San Antonio, TX
Recognizes service to the agency and to the State of Texas that goes above and beyond required duties.
These awards were announced during an All-Hands meeting in Austin, where all TDEM staff gathered with agency leadership to discuss organizational updates, agency priorities, as well as training on key components of the human resources and financial services programs.
Individuals interested in joining TDEM are encouraged to visit the agency’s careers portal at tdem.texas.gov/about/careers.