Exemplary Work (Tampa edition)

Exemplary Work (Tampa edition)

It was a year of anticipation for employees in the 13th Judicial Circuit. They executed the relocation of court services to the George E. Edgecomb Courthouse from Hillsborough County's old building. It also was the prelude to this year's execution of Revision 7 to Article V of the state Constitution, which now charges the state with budgetary responsibility for court services.

In light of such challenges, Hillsborough Court Administrator Michael Bridenback says the employees of the 13th Circuit responded in an exemplary manner. He lauded their actions April 2 during the court's annual employee recognition ceremony.

"Many of you have been worked harder than ever at the program level to address issues associated with the hiring freeze because you are committed to ensuring that justice for all is available for each person who walks through the courthouse doors," he says. "Let me assure you that your dedication is greatly appreciated."

Each year the court administration relies on award recommendations from co-workers, managers and judges. Nominations are screened to ensure diversity reflects the court administration's overall organizational culture. The nomination process is secret, including the identity of the nominating committee. That is designed to ensure fair and impartial recommendations.

This year's Leadership Award, the court's top award, went to personnel Director Heather Thullbery. This award recognizes the recipient's ability to guide others toward the vision and values of the court's administrative office.

Janice Albury, a senior program assistant, earned honors as Employee of the Year. This award recognizes the person whose work consistently exceeds expectations.

The Most Valuable Player Award went to Jennifer Mooney, a court staff attorney. This award recognizes the employee who makes things happen by choice.

Other awards presented include the following:

Visionary - Abdiel Ortiz; Risk Taker - Jose Rivera; Innovative - Marcia Larkin; Quality of Excellence - Wagner Pena; Outstanding Publication/Presentation - LeWanda Gaines; Helping Hand - Paul MacAlester; Tessie Rosete/Judicial Assistant - Maggi Fuente; and the Chief Judge Award - Bill Hand.

The Teamwork Award went to the administration's court facilities relocation team. They are Kirby Jungers, Connie Santiago, Paul MacAlester, Wagner Pena, Juan Tirado, Gonzalo Casares, Edwin Lopez, Jose Robles, Jose Dominguez, Johnny Lopez and Otto Santiago.

- David R. Corder