Gov. Shapiro Honors Exceptional Commonwealth Employees For Remarkable Public Service, Including From DCNR, DEP

On June 24, Gov. Josh Shapiro recognized Commonwealth employees from nine state agencies with Governor’s Awards for Excellence for their public service contributions, including responding to major events in 2024.

"The Governor’s Awards for Excellence are one of the highest honors a Commonwealth employee can earn, and this year’s winners remind us why. Their actions have delivered real results for our communities, improved how government works, and made life better for the people of Pennsylvania – their accomplishments embody what public service is all about,” said Governor Shapiro. “My Administration is honored to recognize these individuals, just a small portion of the incredible state employees who work hard and serve with integrity every day.”

The annual Governor’s Awards for Excellence recognize exemplary Commonwealth employees or groups of employees for initiative, leadership, innovation, and increased efficiency. Commonwealth employees from 23 state agencies submitted 125 nominations, with two individuals and nine groups selected for this year’s awards.

DCNR

While off duty from his position as Park Manager at Tobyhanna State Park, Justin Wald joined the effort to deliver emergency care to a swimmer following a near-drowning incident, contributing to the individual’s full recovery.

 Following the incident, Justin has further enhanced public safety for park visitors by building relationships with local first responders.

DEP

-- Roaring Brook Sedimentation Team: Amy Bellanca, Ann Conserette, Timothy Daley, Kevin Dougherty, Michael Gombeda, Walter Holtsmaster, Pamela Kania, Peter Kawash, Kirk Kreider, Brian Mackowski, Sierra Rider, Donald Rood, Karen Shedlock, and Eric Supey:  For their coordinated response to a massive release of sediment into the Roaring Brook and Lackawanna River by a private company making repairs to a dam upstream that affected aquatic wildlife and recreation. 

The team coordinated inspections and mitigation efforts to restore the waterways and prevent additional damage as the dam work continued.

-- Toby Creek Mine Sedimentation Team: Noah Anderson, Daniel Brady, Paul Steidinger, and Louis Wagner: For their swift action to save homes and businesses following the collapse of an underground mine that swallowed nearly 80 feet of streambank and much of the water flow.

The team worked nearly non-stop to stabilize the site and restore the creek to prevent further damage and protect the community.

Click Here for the Award announcement.

[Posted: June 25, 2025]  PA Environment Digest