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

Mary Seponosky of Somerset, Somerset County, received the Co-Worker Recognition Award for her 28 years of work with the Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS). She was appointed District Office Manager of the Newark District Office II on January 21 of this year.

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.