FRANKFORT – On Wednesday, at the State Capitol Rotunda, Governor Andy Beshear bestowed the prestigious Governor’s Ambassador Awards upon seven state employees and one office, commending their remarkable contributions to the community and their unwavering dedication to serving the people of Kentucky.
“Congratulations to the newest Governor’s Ambassador Award winners! The work you do each day is truly making a difference for your fellow Kentuckians, and I am grateful,” said Gov. Beshear. “Today’s winners have supported tornado survivors, helped disabled Kentuckians get their independence back, shared the stories of Kentucky’s veterans who sacrificed for our freedom, served as health care heroes and so much more. We are proud to have you on Team Kentucky!”
This year, the Personnel Cabinet received 176 nominations that included 2,028 state employees for the awards, which celebrate community service and volunteerism, courage, customer service, leadership, professional achievement and teamwork.
“Even with 176 nominations, this only scratches the surface of the impact that state employees have on every part of our commonwealth,” Personnel Cabinet Secretary Mary Elizabeth Bailey said. “I want to express my sincerest thanks to all of our state employees, who dedicate themselves to public service every day.”
The winners are listed as followes:
- Courage Award: Jessica Ison and Tracy James, Kentucky Department of Parks
- Teamwork Award: Restorative Department at the Eastern Kentucky Veterans Center, Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs
- Leadership Award: Michelle Grant Rudovich, Kentucky Board of Nursing (awarded posthumously)
- Community Service & Volunteerism Award: Jillian Hall and Andrea Freadreacea, Kentucky Public Pensions Authority
- Customer Service Award: Clinton Matney, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Education and Labor Cabinet
- Professional Achievement Award: John Trowbridge, Kentucky National Guard, Department of Military Affairs
