Washington D.C. & Mid-Atlantic RegionAugust 16, 2024 | Waldorf Astoria Washington DC

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Program Details3rd Annual Admin Awards

Welcome to the 3rd Annual Admin Awards serving the Washington D.C. and Mid-Atlantic Region which will be held on August 16th at the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotel Washington D.C.

The Admin Awards - Washington D.C. & Mid-Atlantic Region is our program's most convenient location for the following states, but anyone is welcome to participate in this program regardless of their geographical location.

Washington D.C.
Virginia
Maryland
West Virginia
North Carolina

There is a room block at the Waldorf Astoria for those traveling from out of the area which have limited availability. You can book a room here.

Nominations DeadlineJuly 12

The nominations deadline for the 3rd Annual Admin Awards serving the Washington D.C. and Mid-Atlantic Region is June 28th at Midnight. There is no submission fee thanks to our National Sponsors, Southwest Airlines and Robert Half.

Nominations in support of Administrative Professionals serving as Chiefs of Staff, VP's of Administration, Executive Assistants, Administrative Assistants, Office Managers, Coordinators, Analysts etc. and those that represent the 150+ job titles that reflect the Administrative Profession. If the organization deems the role as primarily administrative in nature and the candidate agrees, we welcome the nomination.

Admin Awards GalaAugust 16, 2024Waldorf Astoria

The Admin Awards 'Good as Gold' Gala is a five-star, regional celebration of Administrative Excellence attended by Program Nominees, their Leaders, Coworkers, friends and family who gather to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Administrative Professionals. All Nominees are celebrated with the iconic Admin Awards VIP treatment including a red carpet experience, curated high-value gifts for every attending Admin and the opportunity to win amazing Major Prizes exclusively for Admin attendees! During the Awards Gala the Finalists in each award category are revealed as well as the 9 Admin Award Winners. While the focus is on Administrative Professionals, Executives and Co-Workers alike enjoy this inspirational evening filled with quality food and beverage, the camaraderie of area Business Leaders and opportunities to get into a celebratory mood, with Good as Gold prizes for the best dressed and best team spirit. No wonder the Admin Awards is known nationally as the “Academy Awards for Admins!" Grab your tickets now and get ready for an evening you won’t ever forget!

About Colleen Barrett: Her Journey from Secretary to President of Southwest Airlines and the Award that Bears Her Name

The Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence is the most coveted and prestigious honor bestowed by The Admin Awards and is named after a legend in the administrative profession, a woman who first proved herself indispensable as corporate secretary to former Southwest Airlines CEO Herb Kelleher before ascending the ranks to President and COO of the Dallas-based company in 2001. Throughout her five-decade career at Southwest Colleen advanced from Legal Secretary to VP of Administration, to EVP of Customers to President and COO and President of one of the world’s most successful airlines. Since 2008 Colleen has served as President Emeritus of Southwest and is revered for her leadership and decision-making abilities, along with her dedication to ensuring the needs of customers, employees, and all other stakeholders are met. Colleen has won many business and industry awards including one of the most important, historic and visible aerospace awards in the world, the Wright Brothers Memorial Trophy which reflects a timeline of the most innovative inventors, explorers, industrialists, and public servants in aeronautics and astronautics.

Colleen Barrett and Herb Kelleher

Colleen is also a fierce advocate for the administrative profession and she understands first-hand the extraordinary impact that high performing Admins have on an organization’s success. The Colleen Barrett Award honors Administrative Professionals who are following in her hallowed footsteps. Barrett has long credited Kelleher with helping her to succeed: “If you have a boss who will let you stretch,” she said, then you have opportunities to learn. With the Colleen Barrett Award, bosses also have an opportunity to show superstar admins how much their dedication to excellence means — and how far they too can potentially rise. The award will be presented by Barrett to an Administrative Professional who best exhibits those traits that helped her have an extraordinary impact in her role as an Admin and include: high proficiency, shares the same values as their organization, is passionately committed to their organization’s purpose, demonstrates a legendary passion for customer service internally and externally, and has a heart for employee advocacy. Colleen Barrett, Servant Leader and Superstar

Colleen Barrett, Servant Leader and Superstar

Colleen Barrett presents the Colleen Barrett Award at the 2015 Dallas Admin Awards

Claire ThalerWalgreens

Angelina CascianoNJM

Erin CorcoranNSM Insurance Group

Nicola ElliottThomas Jefferson University

Julia GolkinThe Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

Erin HinermanAmerisource Bergen

Grace MartinelliLexis Nexis Risk Solutions

Kelli McreynoldsIn Transition

Christina MelendezWeare Sparks

Paula MillerFive Below

Sandra NathansonAvantor Sciences

Andrew McKeoughAKSM Media

Christina GraceDLL Group

Eileen WileyWiedener University

Chantel EllingtonThe North Highland

Heather CapuanoUniversity of Pennsylvania Medical Center

Ashley BottariFS Investments

Richell BardReading Truck Group

Contribute A Major Prize and All Eyes will be on your Company at the Gala

The Admin Awards, referred to by many as “The Academy Awards for Admins” is accepting a limited number of Major Prize contributions which will be awarded during “Prize Breaks” throughout the awards ceremony. Past prizes have included all-expenses-paid vacations, electronics, spa packages, gift cards, airline tickets, designer purses and much, much more! Our Prize Breaks have become legendary and represent a potent way to endear your brand to these deserving and connected Administrative Professionals while also enjoying the captive audience of 450-650 executive and administrative attendees during the ceremony (size varies by market).

Here’s how our prize partnership program works:

14 companies are showcased during three “Prize Breaks” which happen intermittently in between the nine award presentations to an audience of Administrative Professionals, their executive counterparts and coworkers.
Minimum prize value is $500, subject to review and approval
Prize Partners receive prominent display of their logo and giveaway on the big 16’ screens for about one minute while the prize contribution is drawn.
Every Admin that attends the Gala is automatically entered to win one of the 14 major prizes. An est. 250 – 350 admins attend each Gala.
Prize Partners are given the contact list of Admins including email addresses for future follow up.
Prize Partners will receive one ticket to attend the Gala.
While not all prizes are accepted, those that we believe would delight our community of Administrative Professionals and include a value of over $500 (although many are in the $1,000 – $2,500 range) are what gets us most excited.

There sometimes is a cost to participate in the Major Prize program depending on the prize, est. prize value and other factors. To view more details or to submit your major prize for consideration, click here.

Finalists & Winners Publications

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Video

2024 Washington D.C. & Mid-Atlantic Region Nominee Tribute Video

2023 Washington DC Tribute Video

2022 Washington DC Tribute Video

Photos

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The Admin Awards recognizes administrative excellence in nine individual award categories, which may vary slightly from market to market to reflect the leading industries in each program area. Below is a list of all existing award categories and their respective markets in addition to the Founders Award which is the only company award offered by the Admin Awards and is described below. Nominators do have the ability to nominate an Administrative Professional in more than one award category although an admin can only be declared a finalist in one award category (the award category with the highest score from the judges is retained).

The Team Achiever Award

Recognizes the high performing Administrative Team that worked together on a common goal, significant project or business initiative that resulted in a positive outcome.Award Category Questions

Strategic Partnership Award

This award embodies the tremendous impact an Executive Assistant and Executive can have when they work together in true business partnership to advance the needs of the business by relying on the EA role to deliver greater strategic value to the executive and organization.Award Category Questions

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

This is the Admin Awards’ most prestigious award and honors the Admin that best demonstrates many of the qualities which enabled Colleen Barrett’s rise from legal secretary to President and Chief Operating Officer of Southwest Airlines.Award Category Questions

Administrative Excellence in Public Service Award

The Administrative Excellence in Public Service Award honors Administrative Professionals that are involved in either the public or private sectors in the following industries: Healthcare, Biotech, Pharma, Education, Government, Nonprofit, Military, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Politics. Professionals in these areas have made significant contributions to the success of their organizations in an Administrative capacity.Award Category Questions

Above the Call Award

This is the award that's all about providing exceptional customer service both internally and externally and honors the Admin whose job responsibility involves significant interaction with others such as coworkers, customers, vendors, company visitors etc.Award Category Questions

Loyalty Award

The Loyalty Award is presented to the Administrative Professional that has a long history of effective service in the Admin profession (minimum of 15 years) and/or has a long history of effective service to their existing company or executive in an administrative capacity (minimum of 10 years).Award Category Questions

Spirit Award

This award celebrates Admins that are the "heartbeat" of their companies, and consistently exhibit a positive, can-do outlook and is the person that people are drawn to during good days and bad for their optimism, enthusiasm, and positivity.Award Category Questions

Achiever Award

For Admins who have a reputation for “getting it done” – either a significant project that had a company-wide impact or day in day out achievement of tasks and projects.Award Category Questions

Leadership Award

This award recognizes the Admin who leads others (formally or informally) and demonstrates a variety of leadership qualities including persistence, focus, integrity, innovation, patience, decisiveness, open-mindedness, empowerment, generosity and a passion for helping fellow employees and their organization succeed. Award Category Questions

Founders Award

The Admin Awards' only "company" award, this award recognizes organizations that provide an exceptional work environment through the demonstration of specific criteria that brings out the very best in its Administrative Professionals.Award Category Questions

2024

Natasha EdmondsThe City of BaltimoreColleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Natasha EdmondsThe City of BaltimoreColleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative ExcellenceNatasha Edmonds, The City of Baltimore

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Nakia Maxie-HillUniversity of Maryland Eastern ShoreAbove the Call Award

Nakia Maxie-HillUniversity of Maryland Eastern ShoreAbove the Call Award

Above the Call AwardNakia Maxie-Hill, University of Maryland Eastern Shore

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Dexter AllenNational Alliance for CaregivingAchiever Award

Dexter AllenNational Alliance for CaregivingAchiever Award

Achiever AwardDexter Allen, National Alliance for Caregiving

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Hilen FloresNC State UniversityAdministrative Excellence in Public Service Award

Hilen FloresNC State UniversityAdministrative Excellence in Public Service Award

Administrative Excellence in Public Service AwardHilen Flores, NC State University

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Juanita MortHarrisburg Area Community CollegeLeadership Award

Juanita MortHarrisburg Area Community CollegeLeadership Award

Leadership AwardJuanita Mort, Harrisburg Area Community College

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Sandra PuringtonJames Madison UniversityLoyalty Award

Sandra PuringtonJames Madison UniversityLoyalty Award

Loyalty AwardSandra Purington, James Madison University

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Lacey WinglerNorthrop GrummanSpirit Award

Lacey WinglerNorthrop GrummanSpirit Award

Spirit AwardLacey Wingler, Northrop Grumman

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Jennifer LambBank of AmericaStrategic Partnership Award

Jennifer LambBank of AmericaStrategic Partnership Award

Strategic Partnership AwardJennifer Lamb, Bank of America

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Office Managers’ CommitteeFINRAThe Team Achiever Award

Office Managers’ CommitteeFINRAThe Team Achiever Award

The Team Achiever AwardOffice Managers’ Committee, FINRA

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Admin Bio

Natasha Edmonds

Natasha Edmonds is the Executive Assistant to Mayor Brandon M. Scott at the City of Baltimore. She has been an Administrative Professional for 14 years. Natasha Edmonds is an accomplished Executive Assistant with extensive experience in both public and private sectors. She began her career as the Executive Assistant to Baltimore City Council President Brandon M. Scott in 2019 and transitioned to support Mayor Brandon M. Scott after his election in 2020.Natasha is known for her unwavering integrity, problem-solving skills, and organizational abilities. She excels in managing administrative affairs with tact and diplomacy, ensuring continuous partnerships on projects and efforts. Natasha also serves as the Executive Assistant to Bishop James D. Nelson Jr. at Destiny Christian Church in Baltimore, Maryland, where she is deeply involved in planning services, supporting various ministries, and community outreach activities.Her commitment to public service, community involvement, and faith is evident in all her endeavors. Natasha's performance, dedication to excellence, and passion for serving others make her a deserving winner for The Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Nakia Maxie-Hill

Nakia Maxie-Hill is executive assistant to the Vice President at University of Maryland Eastern Shore and has been in the profession for 30 years.Nakia is an integral part of the University and is a consummate professional in all her administrative duties and consistently goes above and beyond expectations to support students, the team, and the mission.One of her biggest accomplishments is organizing an administrative town hall, bringing together over 100 participants from different departments campus-wide to foster open communication and collaboration. The management and outcome of this town hall were a testament to Nakia’s leadership and commitment to enhancing the student experience.Nakia excels in managing a large department within a matrix, global organization, providing exceptional support. She is also a leader in multiple charitable contributions across campus, spearheading food drive efforts supporting the homeless and those in need.

Dexter Allen

Dexter Allen is Executive Administrator & Special Assistant to the President and CEO at National Alliance for Caregiving. He has served the organization for 7 of his 42 years as an executive assistant. Dexter joined NAC at a critical juncture, as the organization underwent significant growth and expansion. He played a pivotal role in overseeing the transition from a modest suburban office to a professional downtown DC location, enabling NAC to expand its reach and collaborate more effectively with stakeholders. His impact extends far beyond his administrative responsibilities. He is known for his compassionate nature, providing a listening ear and unwavering support to both colleagues and the family caregivers NAC serves. Dexter’s genuine empathy and willingness to go above and beyond have earned him the respect and admiration of all who interact with him.Dexter is not simply an administrator; he is a visionary leader, a compassionate colleague, and a tireless advocate for positive change.

Hilen Flores

Hilen Flores is the executive assistant to the Vice Provost at NC State. She has been an executive assistant for 22 years.Hilen supports the Vice Provost in executing and managing a $25 million program providing services to over 176,000 individuals. She has made significant contributions since joining the organization and excels in accountability, compliance, customer focus and team work.The Vice Provost has complete confidence in Hilen’s ability to maintain confidentiality and advocate and communicate for the Office when needed. Hilen is also constantly pushing herself forward taking on leadership roles and large complex project management to develop herself and consistently increase her value to the organization and community.

Juanita Mort

Juanita Mort is the Coordinator, Office of the Vice President IT/CIO at Harrisburg Area Community College. She has been an Admin for 40 years, with the last 14 serving at the College.As the lead admin for a division of 65 people, Juanita has played a critical role in maintaining efficient operations and bolstering our department’s productivity.Juanita has served as a mentor and coach to the Office of Information Technology administrative professional team. She has held various leadership roles, including past president of the classified employee organization and team leader on the Executive Assistant Roundtable. Juanita is also an Advisory Board Member for the Administrative Office Management Associates Degree Program and an Adult Education Instructor at HACC. She manages technology procurement, a $1.5 million capital budget, and a $3 million software budget. Additionally, Juanita is involved with the World Administrators Alliance (WAA) and the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), where she has served in multiple leadership positions.

Sandra Purington

Sandra Purington serves as a Senior Executive Administrative Assistant at James Madison University. She has worked there for 24 of her 30. Years as an Administrative Professional.She has served in various roles, including co-chair and chair of the CAL Staff Advisory Committee, and has been instrumental in organizing significant events such as the CAL Career Conference, which she co-founded in 2016.Her loyalty and commitment to the university and its people make her an exemplary administrative professional. Sandra isn’t just an extraordinary administrative assistant; she is a phenomenal colleague and partner. When the University tragically and suddenly lost one of their administrative staff last year, she stepped in and assisted the department, quietly, competently, and generously and with great empathy and care. She’s truly a gem.Because Sandra has played so many roles and worked with so many people, her contributions are woven throughout the fabric of the School.

Lacey Wingler

Lacey Wingler is an Administrative Assistant at Northrop Grumman, supporting the Propulsion Engineering Department. She has been at Northrop Grumman for 6 of her 13 years in the administrative profession.She is always peppy and upbeat in an office full of antisocial engineers, she is quick to brighten your day when it has been stressful. Lacey is always there to provide assistance at the drop of a hat.Lacey has a knack for being in the right place at the right time, it’s as if she knows when it is something more on someone’s mind than just the normal workday. She is able to become more than just a coworker but a fixture of comfort for anyone who needs a little ease from the stresses of life. Her personality and kindness are infectious and make the toughest of workdays more manageable. Lacey's commitment to team building and morale, and her dedication to understanding and improving the lives of her colleagues has made her the heart of the department.

Jennifer Lamb

Jennifer Lamb serves as an Executive Assistant supporting at Bank of America and has spent her entire 13 year career at the bank.She currently supports the Treasurer of Bank of America, managing a demanding schedule and maintaining important relationships with key stakeholders. Jen has been a trusted partner through various stages of her career, including an international assignment to Paris and navigating the challenges of the pandemic.She is known for her flexibility, grace, and empathy, which have been invaluable to the organization. Jen oversees travel logistics, manages expenses, and helps establish the Treasury Office, streamlining communications and speaker notes.Her understanding of strategic priorities and her ability to provide valuable insights have been crucial in defining Treasury's goals. Jen's commitment to the team and the organization has made her an indispensable asset, and her contributions have significantly enhanced the efficiency and success of the Treasury organization.

Office Managers’ Committee

The Office Managers’ Committee (OMC) at FINRA was established to address challenges faced by administrative staff, such as lack of standard operations manuals, miscommunication of policies, and absence of recognition programs. The OMC, consisting of volunteers from various departments, has successfully organized initiatives like the bi-annual Office Managers’ Conference, bimonthly trainings, and the creation of the Office Managers’ Resource Site.They also launched the Return to Office monthly meetings during the pandemic to assist with the transition to a hybrid work environment.The OMC's efforts have led to improved communication, recognition, and support for administrative staff, enhancing FINRA's efficiency and effectiveness. Their dedication to promoting administrative excellence and fostering a cohesive administrative team has made a significant impact on the organization.

2023

Urban One Accounts Payable and Payroll teamThe Team Achiever Award

Urban One Accounts Payable and Payroll teamThe Team Achiever Award

The Team Achiever AwardUrban One Accounts Payable and Payroll team,

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Widelia AcevedoFINRAColleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Widelia AcevedoFINRAColleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative ExcellenceWidelia Acevedo, FINRA

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Angela WaltonPrince George's County Public SchoolsStrategic Partnership Award

Angela WaltonPrince George's County Public SchoolsStrategic Partnership Award

Strategic Partnership AwardAngela Walton, Prince George's County Public Schools

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Jasmin HarrisLMISpirit Award

Jasmin HarrisLMISpirit Award

Spirit AwardJasmin Harris, LMI

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Ivy EllisThe Education TrustLoyalty Award

Ivy EllisThe Education TrustLoyalty Award

Loyalty AwardIvy Ellis, The Education Trust

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Donnell VanSkiverFrostburg State UniversityLeadership Award

Donnell VanSkiverFrostburg State UniversityLeadership Award

Leadership AwardDonnell VanSkiver, Frostburg State University

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Glendalynn GloverVirginia Department of Veterans ServicesAdministrative Excellence in Public Service Award

Glendalynn GloverVirginia Department of Veterans ServicesAdministrative Excellence in Public Service Award

Administrative Excellence in Public Service AwardGlendalynn Glover, Virginia Department of Veterans Services

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Karen GardnerNorthrop GrummanAchiever Award

Karen GardnerNorthrop GrummanAchiever Award

Achiever AwardKaren Gardner, Northrop Grumman

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Yesenia Hernandez-BritoHealthcare Businesswomen’s AssociationAbove the Call Award

Yesenia Hernandez-BritoHealthcare Businesswomen’s AssociationAbove the Call Award

Above the Call AwardYesenia Hernandez-Brito, Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

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Admin Bio

Urban One Accounts Payable and Payroll team

The Urban One Accounts Payable and Payroll team — which includes Janet Graham, Angela Belton, Charlene Middleton, Tamara Wiggins and Joi Cuffee — is comprised of highly skilled, consummate specialists who contribute significantly to the smooth operation of the company’s corporate Payroll and AP department. This extraordinary team is small but mighty — there are several instances where the team has performed beyond their expected scope, including handling a companywide cyber breach, the COVID-19 pandemic, PPP Loan Forgiveness Applications, and most recently, assisting the company and its auditors during a protracted year-end audit while working with outside vendors as the Urban One implemented brand-new payroll, HRIS and financial systems. Despite the demands of their roles and schedules, they consistently demonstrate their dedication to the organization’s success. Janet, Angela, Charlene, Tamara and Joi are known and respected for their great work, as well as their camaraderie and collaborative spirit. They are the epitome of TEAM: Together, Everyone Achieves More.

Widelia Acevedo

Widelia Acevedo is Office Manager at FINRA, and in her nearly 25 years with the organization, she has established herself as an exemplary Administrative Professional who consistently goes above and beyond expectations to ensure that her team, colleagues and FINRA as a whole operate at maximum efficiency. She is a natural leader who fosters a culture of collaboration, positivity and excellence, and is relied upon by every member of FINRA’s Office of Financial and Operational Risk Policy to expertly execute numerous business processes. Winnie never hesitates to assume responsibility for unique projects that are outside of her normal responsibilities, while always ensuring that she is educated regarding the requirements of any task (big or small). She is a consummate multitasker who juggles multiple projects with ease and carries them out flawlessly, even within tight deadlines. Perhaps most importantly, she is the person to whom everyone feels a personal connection — a true team player who embraces every opportunity to help her colleagues.

Angela Walton

As Executive Assistant to the Chief Academic Officer at Prince George's County Public Schools, Angela Walton plays a crucial role in the facilitation and support of the Chief Academic Officer’s work. In her role, she maintains the utmost discretion and confidentiality to build trust and maintain the integrity of the organization. She is proactive, resourceful and capable of handling multiple tasks while maintaining a high level of quality, and her attention to detail ensures that the division runs efficiently and effectively. Angela serves as a strategic partner by taking time to understand all areas of the division so that she can be a true thought partner. Her leadership and advocacy have been instrumental in pushing the division to collect funds for the homeless, celebrating the effort of team members, bridging collaborations with individuals in all school district offices, and holding herself accountable for the strengths and challenges of the division. Angela is a cherished mentor, coach and role model to many across the organization.

Jasmin Harris

Jasmin Harris is Executive Assistant to the CTO at LMI, where she creates a positive, upbeat work environment for others and enthusiastically engages with all stakeholders. Jasmin is at the center of nearly all team-building events, including leadership offsites, individual celebrations, happy hours and technology showcases. She brings creativity and leadership to organizing these experiences and takes initiative to offer advice, alternatives, and recommendations on how to enrich them. While Jasmin frequently sends encouraging emails to her colleagues, recognizes the achievements of others and boosts team morale, her spirit is not limited to internal interactions — she extends the same positive attitude to customers and partners. Jasmin’s unique contributions have made her well-known as someone who employees across the organization look forward to working with, especially as she always goes above and beyond and demonstrates an eagerness to help others. In fact, her skills are so varied, she’s become known as LMI’s “Swiss Army Knife” — Jasmin can do just about anything that’s asked of her.

Ivy Ellis

As Senior Executive Assistant at The Education Trust, Ivy Ellis consistently displays unwavering dedication, exceptional skills, a commitment to excellence and a deep belief in the mission of the organization. Her deep understanding of her executives’ work styles, preferences and priorities allows them to operate at the highest level of efficiency and productivity. Her day-to-day support and compassion in her job are remarkable — for instance, when she learned her SVP’s brother had passed away, she immediately called to express her condolences and then removed non-critical meetings from his schedule so he wouldn’t have to make those decisions during a time of crisis. In addition, Ivy’s exceptional grant management skills and embrace of new technologies have been instrumental in driving success across the enterprise. Her deep knowledge of the organization — along with her dedication, professionalism, curiosity and compassion — have made Ivy a trusted mentor and role model for other Admins within Ed Trust and a go-to staff member across all teams.

Donnell VanSkiver

In her role as Executive Administrative Assistant to the President at Frostburg State University, Donnell Van Skiver provides superb support to anyone who reaches out for advice or direction. Donnell is a continuous learner who is committed to passing on knowledge to her peers so that they can grow as Admins while simultaneously showing equal investment in student growth. Despite her demanding workload, Donnell is organized, prioritizes tasks, and efficiently allocates her time and resources. Her exceptional multitasking skills and attention to detail allow her to provide personalized support to numerous students while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Beyond her individual interactions, she actively contributes to creating a thriving educational community through fostering open communication, collaboration and inclusivity, which cultivates an environment in which students feel supported and empowered. Donnell’s positive influence extends beyond administrative tasks, as she consistently seeks opportunities to engage with students, offer guidance and promote a sense of belonging.

Glendalynn Glover

Glendalynn Glover is Administrative Assistant with Virginia Department of Veterans Services, where she is seen as being nearly perfect at her job. Though her responsibilities do not require her to be Administrative Assistant to everyone who works on the 17^th and 18^th floors, her caring nature nevertheless draws people to her desk. But it’s not just other employees who value her consummate professionalism and integrity. The office receives numerous calls daily, mainly from veterans and their family members who need assistance. Glendalynn works diligently to provide the requested resources, and even amid a bustling office, she stays focused on the person she is helping. Customer service and individual attention are rare qualities that are often missing in today's hectic world, but Glendalynn has perfected those qualities so that anyone who calls feel secure that their voice is heard. Her unfailingly altruistic nature is just one of many reason Glenadlynn is treasured by her coworkers, many of whom consider her the “heart and soul” of the organization.

Karen Gardner

Northrop Grumman’s Mission Exploration Operating Unit has seen approximately $600 million in sales growth from 2021 to 2023, the core of which has been its Tactical Edge business line that focuses on rapid deployment of complex technical systems to integrate space, air and ground sensors. Administrative Assistant Karen Gardner has been especially central to the team’s ability to deploy and test systems quickly — every day, she far exceeds her scope of work to ensure the success of her colleagues and the company. In fact, in her 28 years with Northrop Grumman, Karen has proved invaluable both in her knowledge of the company’s history and in her strategic partnership with stakeholders across the enterprise, including facilities, supply chain, functional leads, customers and executives. In her role overseeing Northrop Grumman’s VA site, Karen consistently delivers flawless customer service and has created efficient processes with her functional counterparts. Karen is so good at what she does that she is roundly considered the program’s “unsung hero.”

Yesenia Hernandez-Brito

In her role as Manager, Executive Office & Global Board, at Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association, Yesenia Hernandez-Brito has proven herself critical to the organization’s success by streamlining processes, creating efficiencies and supporting transitions. Yesenia serves as the point of contact for all VIP management, including awardees, chairs emeritae, and HBA founders, while also managing governance, policy and procedure documentation. She assumed her position at HBA as the executive office manager supporting the CEO and COO, and within a month of her start date, the CEO of 14 years announced her retirement. While the organization was in limbo, Yesenia didn’t miss a beat — she managed board sessions for the global board, created live presentations and agendas, and worked overtime to ensure everything was seamless for executive leaders. Additionally, Yesenia has supported HBA’s CPO and COO to drive $2 million in revenue and nearly 60% membership growth over the past 2.5 years. It’s no wonder her colleagues say she’s “diligent, detailed and dedicated.”

2022

Margie WilliamsExecutive AssistantDigital CloakColleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative ExcellenceMargie Williams, Digital Cloak

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Michelle BaptisteSenior Administrative AssistantPhillip MorrisAbove the Call Award

Above the Call AwardMichelle Baptiste, Phillip Morris

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Karen ClinkscalesExecutive Assistant to the CEOUrban One, Inc.Achiever Award

Karen ClinkscalesExecutive Assistant to the CEOUrban One, Inc.Achiever Award

Achiever AwardKaren Clinkscales, Urban One, Inc.

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Nancy NakhlehLead Coordinator for the Office of Government AffairsFINRAAdministrative Excellence in Public Service Award

Administrative Excellence in Public Service AwardNancy Nakhleh, FINRA

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Alma TorresExecutive Administrative AssistantAltria Group, Inc.Leadership Award

Leadership AwardAlma Torres, Altria Group, Inc.

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Donna LakeNorthrop Grumman CorporationLoyalty Award

Loyalty AwardDonna Lake, Northrop Grumman Corporation

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Shelby LuzziConvention Sales Coordinator Destination DCRookie of the Year Award

Rookie of the Year AwardShelby Luzzi, Destination DC

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Kim RubinExecutive AssistantToyota Motor North AmericaSpirit Award

Spirit AwardKim Rubin, Toyota Motor North America

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Bry'an E. AzuekwuChief of StaffFTI ConsultingStrategic Business Partnership Award

Strategic Business Partnership AwardBry'an E. Azuekwu, FTI Consulting

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Admin Bio

Margie Williams

Margie Williams is Executive Assistant at Digital Cloak, where her wealth of knowledge and experience supporting senior business leaders have been crucial to the development of the new firm. As the senior admin at Digital Cloak, she has created a framework for other Administrative Professionals to follow that includes coursework, standards and policies, information on career levels and titles, and an assessment form. In addition to her many daily responsibilities, Margie takes the time to mentor her fellow admins by encouraging the development of new skills, defining priorities and engaging in team-building events. Whether working with outside vendors to provide architectural plans, CAD drawings, 3D renderings and cost breakouts for Digital Cloak’s SCIF project or working with the IT team to facilitate meetings, Margie’s professionalism, strong work ethic and dedication to the company’s strategic vision are inspiring to witness. She undoubtedly sets the bar high, while demonstrating to others how to reach those same heights — which is why she has become known as Digital Cloak’s “Wonder Woman.”

Michelle Baptiste

Michelle Baptiste is Senior Administrative Assistant at Altria, where she embodies relentless dedication. Her willingness to pitch in wherever she is needed pushes the organization to reach its highest potential, and her tenacious desire to always accomplish more is what makes the Brand Management Department tick. Since 2004, Michelle has supported the department’s Compliance Officer, curating content for monthly compliance meetings to ensure the team always stays up-to-date with the latest information. Michelle’s focus on excellence likewise extends to the company’s internship program. She prepares for the interns’ arrivals months in advance, and in the week leading up to their first day, she comes in early and stays late to ensure everything is good to go. She also is deeply involved in bettering her community — in 2017, she was recognized for dedicating more than 300 volunteer hours that year. Her commitment to consistently exceeding expectations has established Michelle as a role model at Altria — as well as a catalyst for success.

Karen Clinkscales

In her role as Executive Assistant to the CEO of Urban One, Inc., Karen Clinkscales possesses all the critical components of an excellent Administrative Assistant — the ability to manage travel, schedule meetings, review and prioritize correspondence and expense reports, and diplomatically communicate with all stakeholders within and outside of the organization. But that’s only a fraction of the brilliance that makes Karen an extraordinary member of the Urban One team. Karen is an endlessly confident and business-savvy colleague who can keep pace with ever-evolving priorities without missing a beat — and whose impact on the organization is felt far beyond the four walls of her executive’s office. Not only has she managed the complexities of her day-to-day work, but she has simultaneously taken on large-scale projects such as Urban One’s President’s Club Event, for which she is the “chief architect.” Karen is a consummate professional who consistently gives her best to make her CEO, and the entire organization, shine.

Nancy Nakhleh

Nancy Nakhleh is Lead Coordinator for the Office of Government Affairs at FINRA, where her commitment and work ethic are beyond compare, as is her generosity to her coworkers. In her role, Nancy has developed key technology and database systems to ensure compliance, and these systems have served as the basis for others developed within the organization. Nancy is known for her energetic disposition, including her willingness to take on additional tasks, such as consolidating and circulating notable industry events and speeches. Following the death of a beloved colleague and the subsequent departure of the department head, Nancy assumed new projects and increased her scope of responsibility on many others. Her selflessness extends beyond the workday — as her late colleague was battling cancer, she helped his family regularly on the weekends so that his wife could spend as much time with him as possible. Nancy’s caring nature and eagerness to roll up her sleeves have truly made FINRA a better organization.

Alma Torres

Alma Torres is Executive Administrative Assistant for Altria, where she frequently takes on projects beyond the scope of her role. She has led accounting tasks such as measuring completeness of SOX controls around monthly Journal Entry Review and Account Reconciliation completeness; spearheaded a simplification project with a third-party vendor to reduce the time needed to perform monthly manager JE reviews through BOT utilization; and participated in an enterprise-wide initiative to migrate data storage from servers to SharePoint. Not only has Alma excelled in this work, but she also kept engagement levels high throughout the pandemic by creating interactive games such as Family Feud and trivia that allowed employees to virtually compete against each other and with departments throughout the company. She also ensures that team members receive birthday cards (signed by the entire team) and organizes special events for weddings, baby showers, work anniversaries and more. Alma’s passion for learning and people makes her a leader in every possible sense of the word.

Donna Lake

As Executive Administrative Assistant at Northrop Grumman Corporation, Donna Lake has exemplified excellence throughout her 43 years with the company. Need a contractor? Donna will handle it. Need hundreds of seats for interns? Donna will handle it. Need to move an entire department? Donna will handle it. Donna makes navigating a large organization look easy with her vast knowledge and deep personal connections. She has mentored numerous Administrative Professionals throughout her career, and her willingness to assist in any way possible has earned her the respect and trust of the entire organization. Part of that is due to the way she seems to always have all the answers right at her fingertips. Beyond just providing the basic answers, Donna makes sure to include the link, file or screenshot of the source material to address any questions that may occur. The only thing that never comes into question? That Donna’s integrity, work ethic and loyalty make her second to none.

Shelby Luzzi

Shelby Luzzi is Convention Sales Coordinator with Destination DC, where she has enthusiastically picked up extra work and supported multiple managers, despite her relatively short tenure with the organization. She consistently brings an impressive level of creativity and sophistication to special projects and an attention to detail to her daily tasks. In addition to her numerous day-to-day responsibilities, Shelby translated her personal passion for sustainability into a company-wide focus on improving sustainability efforts. She initiated the Sustainability Taskforce and serves as the current chair, providing weekly updates during staff meetings and developing creative ideas to bring awareness to the topic. Shelby also organized a presentation from the Department of Energy and Environment to Destination DC’s senior staff, which led to discussions around sustainability planning for Destination DC, as well as the entire hospitality industry. Her sustainability efforts, coupled with the talent she brings to Destination DC’s daily operations, truly set Shelby apart from the rest.

Kim Rubin

Kim Rubin is Executive Assistant at Toyota Motor North America, where she streamlines operations and boosts morale one conversation at a time. While her spirit is always incomparable, it was on full display during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which Kim sprang into action and facilitated numerous team-building activities once work shifted online — but she didn’t stop there. When a colleague who was the sole caregiver for their ailing mother feel ill, Kim jumped into action, ordering meals, sending cards and gifts in the mail and always checking in. “It was because of her unbelievable support and spirit of encouragement,” her colleague says, “that I could overcome this challenge in my life and recover in time to be there for my mom during her final year.” Kim’s fierce loyalty and heart of gold were instrumental in shepherding the team through one of the most difficult times in recent history, leading her colleagues to call her “extraordinary” and “indispensable.”

Bry'an E. Azuekwu

“Diplomatic.” “Strategic.” “A trusted advisor.” These are just a few of the terms used to describe Bry'an Azuekwu, Chief of Staff at FTI Consulting. An expert on administration and operations, Bry'an works alongside the Senior Managing Director and Head of Healthcare & Life Sciences to grow a $19 million business, handling challenges ranging from billing to contracting to human resources. Bry'an has made himself indispensable by learning the business and building a vast internal network to ensure that he always knows who to call to get answers and how to make things happen. Whether it’s advising on contracts to maximize revenues or tracking down purchase orders, Bry’an navigates internal and external challenges with skill and diplomacy. Most notably, Bry'an was pivotal in guiding the transition from in-office to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic, and then in bringing the team back together as conditions improved. One of his greatest talents is intuitively understanding organizational needs — and offering innovative ideas to meet them.

Congratulations to the 2024 Washington D.C. & Mid-Atlantic Region Finalists!

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative ExcellenceKeitha Bell, Mortgage Bankers AssociationNathalia Davis, Duke University Health SystemNatasha Edmonds, The City of Baltimore (Winner)Stormy Hopkins, The College FoundationTracy Powelson, Design-Build Institute of America

Above the Call AwardDiana Delgado, DC Bilingual Public Charter SchoolKenesha DeShields, University of Maryland Eastern ShoreKyesha Fitzgerald, Baltimore City Recreation and ParksMichelle Hudson, Northrop GrummanNakia Maxie-Hill, University of Maryland Eastern Shore (Winner)Kerry McDaniel, Southwest Airlines

Achiever AwardVictoria Alfieri, Destination DCDexter Allen, National Alliance for Caregiving (Winner)Carrie Cowart, Southwest AirlinesRosalie Merrit Romick, FINRASeptember Smith, Prince George's County Public SchoolsKristine Smith, Northrop Grumman

Administrative Excellence in Public Service AwardVeronica Clarke-Harrod, DC Public SchoolsSabrina Davis, Maryland Aviation AdministrationKendra Ellison, Department of Veterans ServicesHilen Flores, NC State University (Winner)Reginia Hawkins, Johns Hopkins Carey Business SchoolChandler Mumolie, Washington DC Public SchoolsCarleen Muncy, Hampton Roads Transit

Leadership AwardJulia Guerrero De La Cruz, University of Maryland Eastern ShoreKenya Johnson, PHRMAKatie Jones, Sarah Cannon Research InstituteTerria McClain, University of Maryland School of NursingJuanita Mort, Harrisburg Area Community College (Winner)Tarshae Washington, Prince George's County Public Schools

Loyalty AwardCindy Brewbaker, Lockheed MartinGwen Bryant, FINRAEbony Daughtry, The Education TrustAngie DeMoreland, The Arc Central Chesapeake RegionMichele Doyle, Northrop GrummanMeribeth Puckett, Premier, Inc.Sandra Purington, James Madison University (Winner)

Spirit AwardEbony Adomanis, Kimley-HornTina Ferguson, ManTechThia Fox, The Council for Professional RecognitionNatalie Jones, Johnson, Mirmiran and ThompsonCarol Walsh, KCI Technologies, Inc.Lacey Wingler, Northrop Grumman (Winner)

Strategic Partnership AwardBeheshta Bakhshi, Alpha OmegaJennifer Lamb, Bank of America (Winner)Holly Storms, Allen Distribution

The Team Achiever AwardExecutive Administration Team, Mortgage Bankers AssociationOffice Managers’ Committee, FINRA (Winner)Administrative Support Team, Capital Blue Cross

Washington D.C. & Mid-Atlantic RegionAugust 16, 2024 | Waldorf Astoria Washington DC

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The Team Achiever Award

Strategic Partnership Award

Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence

Administrative Excellence in Public Service Award