The Partnership for Public Service has selected Barbara Kutchko as a finalist for the 2018 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals. The partnership, which is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that believes good government starts with good people, states that Kutchko’s achievements are an eloquent testimony to the many ways civil servants make a difference for our country every day.

The partnership formally introduced Kutchko, along with the other finalists, to agency leaders, members of Congress, supporters of the program, and the media at a tribute breakfast on Tuesday, May 8 in the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, D.C.

The Sammies, known as the “Oscars” of government service, are a highly respected honor with a vigorous selection process. The awards are named in honor of the Partnership for Public Service’s late founder who was inspired by President Kennedy’s call to serve in 1963. The awards align with his vision of a dynamic and innovative federal workforce that meets the needs of the American people.

The partnership’s website states, “the Sammies honorees represent the many exceptional federal workers who are doing just that—breaking down barriers, overcoming huge challenges and getting results. Whether they’re defending the homeland, protecting the environment, ensuring public safety, making scientific and medical discoveries, or responding to natural and man-made disasters, these men and women put service before self and make a lasting difference.”

Kutchko will attend an event in July with current and former Sammies finalists and winners to network and share best practices across agencies. The winner of the fourth annual People’s Choice award will also be announced at this event.

Kutchko will officially find out if she wins the coveted award at the Sammies black tie awards gala on October 2 in Washington, D.C.

Contact:

• Shelley Martin, DOE National Energy Technology Laboratory, 304-285-0228, contact.publicaffairs@netl.doe.gov