For immediate release: October 30, 2018             Media contact: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724   LANSING – Commitment to teamwork, leadership, outstanding customer service and dedication to excellence are just a few characteristics describing the winners of the 2018 Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development annual employee awards. Winners are nominated by their fellow MDARD colleagues. Additionally, 46 MDARD employees celebrated 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40-year anniversaries of service to the State of Michigan.   “I am privileged to work alongside individuals who take pride in helping our farming, food and agriculture businesses thrive while protecting public health and safety every day. Such commitment is a key reason MDARD is able to provide a high level of service to the industry and people of the State of Michigan,” said MDARD Director Gordon Wenk.

The 2018 award winners are:   Leadership Award: Craig VanBuren – Williamston  The “Leadership Award” is designed to provide recognition to those staff who are seen as exceptional leaders by their peers, supervisors, and customers.  The award recognizes an MDARD employee that rises to a challenge to lead, inspires others to act, and seeks opportunities to innovate and improve areas within the department.

Every Day Hero Award: Elizabeth Dorman – Laingsburg  The “Every Day Hero Award” affirms the value MDARD has in employees who may not be in the spotlight, yet steadily and faithfully get things done every day.  It is given to an employee who consistently demonstrates dependability, diligence, initiative, and teamwork.  

Front Line Ambassador Award: Elizabeth Giem – Boyne Falls   The “Front Line Ambassador Award” is given to an employee who is regularly put in precarious and difficult situations, all the while demonstrating a positive attitude, identifying creative options for resolution, and following through with the constituent.  The award is not given for a singular achievement or activity, but rather reflects a continuing commitment to the mission and values of MDARD.   Rookie of the Year: Amber Neils - Petoskey  The “Rookie of the Year” award recognizing a new employee (on the job less than three years) whose service has set a benchmark for all others to attain. It is designed to provide recognition to those staff who are seen as up and coming leaders.

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