Katelynn Cahall, Department of Transportation

Katelynn Cahall, a Paralegal II in the Division of Motor Vehicles Compliance and Investigations Unit, played a crucial role in assisting victims of dealership fraud despite significant staff turnover. She took on extensive responsibilities, including organizing case files, contacting financial institutions, and building detailed Excel workbooks to track consumer complaints. Her dedication ensured that over 80% of affected customers were able to title and register their vehicles, providing much-needed relief to frustrated consumers. Katelynn also became the primary point of contact for investigators, attorneys, and affected customers, earning praise for her professionalism and organizational skills. Her dedication to Delaware’s customers makes her the example every leader wishes they had on their team.

The Instructional Materials and Resource Center Team: Allen Frazier, Anne Lattanzi, Kathie Oberholtzer, Avery Peterson, and Matthew Tseronis, Department of Health and Social Services

The Instructional Materials and Resource Center (IMRC) team supports visually impaired students in Delaware by providing accessible curricula in braille, digital, large print, and audio formats. Led by Matthew Tseronis, the team also runs the Men with a Message Program, training inmates as certified braille transcribers. Their production site at the Biggs Building processed over 700 textbooks for the 2023-2024 school year, with a 9% annual growth. Their efforts ensure that more than 300 students receive essential educational materials. The IMRC’s dedication to accessibility and innovation has a profound statewide impact.

Sharay Knight, Court of Chancery

Sharay Knight has been an exceptional asset to the Court of Chancery during a time of staffing shortages and increased workload. She consistently goes above and beyond her duties, ensuring that the court operates smoothly and efficiently, even outside regular hours. Her professionalism, patience, and willingness to assist litigants and staff have earned her widespread praise, particularly for her help with court technology and her support of self-represented litigants. Sharay's efforts extend beyond her own responsibilities, as she has helped manage multiple dockets and court events, often traveling for extended periods to ensure the court's needs are met. Her dedication and proactive approach have been invaluable in helping the court continue its work amidst the challenges it faces.

Tina Wagner, Department of Health and Social Services

Tina Wagner, Volunteer Coordinator at Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, enhances residents' experiences by organizing donations and coordinating volunteers. She uses community and social media platforms to gather support for events like the Resident Fall Ball and Family and Friends Day. Collaborating with local groups, she arranges entertainment and special activities. She also creates department store-like clothing selections and organizes luncheons, birthday gifts, and luxury experiences. Tina’s warm demeanor and proactive approach foster a positive environment for residents.

Sherrie Downs, Micheala Vanderslice, and Kathleen Rees, Department of Services for Children, Youth, and Their Families

Three employees from the Department of Services for Children, Youth and their Families are outstanding examples of dedication, commitment, and skill in the service of ensuring the safety and well-being of the youth in our care.

Kathi Rees, a Family Crisis Therapist Supervisor with the Division of Family Services, goes above and beyond for Delaware’s children. She leads the demanding 2nd shift in New Castle County and has provided statewide coverage for nearly a year – often working double shifts due to staffing shortages to ensure urgent cases are addressed. Kathi manages the Child Abuse and Neglect Report Line, supports her team through high-stress situations, and leads with compassion and dedication—playing a critical role in protecting vulnerable children and maintaining frontline operations statewide.

Family Crisis Therapists with the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services, Micheala Vanderslice and Sherrie Downs exemplify teamwork, skillfully balancing authority and therapeutic care to support rehabilitative goals in secure care settings. Drawing on their frontline experience, they advocate for youth, engage families and provide essential guidance. Recently, they secured food, transportation, and educational resources for a distressed youth’s family—going well beyond their job duties. Their dedication, flexibility, and creative problem-solving have earned them multiple recognitions. Micheala and Sherrie’s strong partnership and commitment make them a true collaborative dream team.