CELEBRATING DSHS DURING PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNITION WEEK 2025

Dozens of Washington state employees received PSRW Extra Mile and Leadership Awards during a ceremony at the State Capitol in Olympia on Tuesday, May 6.

Last week, Washington state celebrated Public Service Recognition Week, a time dedicated to honoring the incredible contributions of our public servants. From May 4–10, events took place in Olympia, the Tri-Cities, and Spokane to recognize the dedication and service of federal, state, county, and local government employees.

In addition to the statewide events, many DSHS offices had their own smaller celebrations, bringing teams together to recognize and appreciate each other’s hard work and commitment.

Congratulations to the outstanding DSHS outstanding people and teams who were recognized this year for their exceptional work:

• Lisa Pemberton, a DSHS Tribal Affairs Administrator, was honored for organizing a powerful, inclusive event to celebrate Native American Heritage Month as well as foster belonging and cultural pride among tribal clients.

Lisa Pemberton, a tribal affairs administrator whose work supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the DSHS employees who support them, receives her PSRW Extra Mile Award.

• Members of the Pierce College Education Services Team at Western State Hospital — Sacha Renner, Julie Catoe, Rebecca Raden, and Cathy Gangstad — were recognized for their dedication to empowering patients through individualized education and compassionate, inclusive instruction.

Sacha Renner accepts the PSRW Extra Mile Award on behalf of the DSHS Pierce College Education Services Team at Western State Hospital.

• The Summer EBT Policy and Operations Team launched the SUN Bucks program in record time, delivering essential food benefits to over 590,000 children statewide by overcoming regulatory, technical, and outreach challenges through teamwork and innovation.

The DSHS Summer EBT team poses for a celebratory photo after accepting their PSRW Extra Mile Awards at the State Capitol.

• Alixandria Cortez was honored for her transformative leadership in health care regulation, strengthening compliance, safety, and culturally relevant care during a time of great need.
• Kristine Hammond led Community Services Division’s Region 3 through significant operational challenges, launching resource-sharing initiatives, building tribal partnerships, and advancing equity and inclusion across the region.

Each of these honorees exemplifies the spirit of public service — leading with heart, purpose, and commitment to Washington communities.

Read more about all the amazing PSRW 2025 winners from across state government on the Office of Financial Management’s PSRW page.