Caleb Bontrager, Department of Technology and Information

Mr. Bontrager is the Lead Telecom Technologist for the Network Security Team. In 2023, he volunteered to help resolve hundreds of incidents and requests by examining situations, brainstorming solutions, and taking decisive action. His efforts often involved assessing system architecture, analyzing logs, and deploying temporary servers for testing and troubleshooting. As a result of his work, dispatchers, police, and other first responders can access critical communications systems; residents can utilize online services such as unemployment, file taxes, and receive healthcare; students can safely use the internet to further their education; the General Assembly can conduct public meetings and sessions; businesses can file for incorporation; state workers can utilize tools and information; resources are available to work more efficiently; and so much more.

Jason Gingerich, Department of Health and Social Services

Mr. Gingerich is a Certified Nursing Assistant for Delaware's Hospital for the Chronically Ill. This spring, he noticed that the flower boxes in an area where residents socialize were overgrown and filled with weeds. Mr. Gingerich asked if he could take over caring for the flower boxes. Once approved, he gathered a few residents to help him. They dug up the weeds, tilled the soil, and planted flowers. They then painted the boxes with bright colors to match the flowers. Some residents commented that “it felt great to feel the soil on their hands again.” This project gave enjoyment, pride, and a sense of accomplishment to chronically ill residents.

Jessica Jason-Torres, Department of Health and Social Services

Jessica Jason-Torres is a Program Compliance Specialist I. In 2023, one of her clients was struggling with homelessness and trying to care for her young child. One day, the client reached out, crying hysterically, and asking about foster care for her son. Ms. Jason-Torres advised the client to take her son to the closest Division of Social Services State Service Center. The client was clearly overwhelmed. She said she didn’t know what to say and was afraid to go inside the center. Ms. Jason-Torres reached out to four different agencies, and within 24 hours, the little boy was placed with a family member, instead of foster care. The client reached out afterward to thank Ms. Jason-Torres for her help.

Rebecca Salmon, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control

Sgt. Rebecca Salmon played a major role in a months-long tire-dumping investigation. She secured all the necessary warrants and worked with the camera program manager to obtain video evidence of the suspects violating the law. She then worked with the Attorney General's office to increase the chances of conviction. In addition to this work, Sgt. Salmon voluntarily earned a certificate as a drone operator for the State of Delaware and worked with Public Affairs, ECU officers and Community Affairs leadership to produce a Natural Resources Police coloring book. This book is hugely popular among children but also of great interest to parents because of the important safety information included in this fun learning activity.

Charlotte Walsh, Justice of the Peace Court

Charlotte Walsh began working for the Justice of the Peace Court in New Castle County in 1989. Her 35 years of outstanding service resulted in tremendous knowledge about the court and enabled her to lead cross-functional teams to improve processes. This ability was critical when the court had to change the way business was conducted during COVID. One staff member said, “Charlotte is, in many ways, the life blood of the justice of the peace court. She has worked diligently to transfer as much knowledge as she can to assist in maintaining the long-term viability of our organization. Even so, nothing will be able to replace her dedication and devotion.”