The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary’s awards recognize the accomplishments of individuals and/or teams of employees throughout the Department. Usually granted on an annual basis, the frequency of these honorary awards is determined solely by DHS. At the discretion of the DHS Secretary, nominations are solicited from across the Department for these awards. Nominations must be approved by the nominee’s supervisory chain of command and the Commandant before being forwarded to DHS for selection. Below is a list of the DHS Secretary’s awards:
- Secretary’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Diversity Management - This award recognizes an employee who has excelled in efforts to promote diversity at DHS through outstanding leadership and innovation. It may acknowledge individual efforts exclusively within DHS or with external partners who assist DHS in meeting our commitment to diversity. Only one individual award in this category.
- Secretary’s Award for Volunteer Service - This award recognizes significant contributions by DHS employees who serve as volunteers with non-profit or community service programs or activities. The employee’s contributions should be direct, sustained, and have meaningful results for individuals or larger public good. Only one individual award in this category.
- Secretary’s Award for Leadership Excellence - This award recognizes an individual that exemplifies the Department of Homeland Security’s leadership philosophy, principles, and core values of integrity, vigilance, and respect. This individual puts employees first and inspires and motivates others. This award is named for the first Secretary of the Department, Tom Ridge, who embodied these qualities. Only one individual award in this category.
- Individual Award: This award recognizes one employee who exemplifies the Department of Homeland Security’s leadership philosophy, principles, and core values of integrity, vigilance and respect; has led an effective team to achieve results; inspires and motivates others by example to work collaboratively and creatively; and mentors personnel toward their highest potential.