TRENTON, NJ – Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Gwendolyn L. Harris presented awards to a department employee from Atlantic County for an individual award this year at the State’s Public Service Recognition Program. There were 29 honorees in all from DHS.

Deborah Smith-Simpson of Pleasantville, who received the Co-Worker Recognition Award, works as a Family Service Specialist at the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) Atlantic District Office and was appointed Court Liaison in January 2002.

Over 1,500 state workers gathered at the Trenton War Memorial for the Annual NJ State Public Service Recognition Awards Ceremony, which included a pre-ceremony breakfast, compliments of the NJ Department of Personnel, which organizes the annual event.

Representatives from 26 state departments and agencies meet monthly throughout the year to identify programs, awards and events to recognize and honor public employees. The program culminates in an annual statewide celebration to honor public service award recipients, held during National Public Service Recognition Week in May. Program award categories include Longevity, Co-Worker Recognition; Team Work Partnership, and Customer Service Excellence. The State award categories include Heroism, Exceptional Service, Community Service, and Professional Achievement. This program also includes a national award coordinated by the National Public Service Roundtable in Washington DC.

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