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Honoring the Voice of Emergency Response

The Tri-State Telecommunicators Consortium annual banquet is the premier event dedicated to celebrating the extraordinary professionalism of emergency dispatchers. We recognize the skill, calm, and courage of those who serve the quad-state area of Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania as the critical first link in public safety. Below are the 2025 year award winners that were honored at the banquet hosted on April 11th, 2026. Congratuations to the recipients!

Berkeley County, WV

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Telecommunicator of the Year:

Mary Stockett

       Berkeley County Emergency Communications is proud to recognize Mary Stockett as our Telecommunicator of the Year. Mary consistently demonstrates professionalism, reliability, and dedication to the highest standards of emergency communications. Her impeccable attendance record and strong compliance with quality assurance standards reflect her commitment to excellence and her accountability to both her team and the community we serve.

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        Mary’s contributions extend beyond her daily responsibilities. She has shown a strong interest in public education and actively supports social media outreach efforts, helping to enhance community awareness and engagement. Although not a CTO, Mary is always willing to assist new trainees and provide guidance to colleagues, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. She approaches her role with seriousness and pride, working diligently as part of the team. Please join us in congratulating Mary Stockett on this well-deserved recognition as Berkeley County’s Telecommunicator of the Year.

Frederick County, MD

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Great Beginnings Award:

Christopher Scheel

       Christopher Scheel began his career with Frederick County Emergency Communications on October 21, 2024. Since then, Chris has made quick work to collect multiple of the industry's highest achievements: cardiac arrest saves and baby deliveries. The things that most will only have the honor of contributing to once in a career. On February 10, 2025, ECS Scheel assisted in the delivery of a healthy baby boy while still in call taking training. Then on February 13, 2025, again while in call taking training, Chris contributed to the life-saving actions for a patient in cardiac arrest. The quick recognition and instruction given by ECS Scheel contributed to a positive outcome for the patient. Once more, on March 20, 2026, ECS Scheel assisted in the delivery of a healthy baby girl.

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        In addition, ECS Scheel maintains an average of High Compliance in his call taking and is always a positive encounter for whomever is on the other end of the phone. On December 2, 2025, he received an employee recognition for his processing of a frantic female reporting a house fire, after the fact she reached out to the fire department and communications to express her gratitude for ECS Scheel’s handling of her call.

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      It is obvious that ECS Scheel has had a ‘great beginning’ to his career and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for him at Emergency Communications.

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(Not pictured: Stephanie Lear)
Strength In Numbers Awards:

Michael Mills
Julie Fogle
Stephanie Lear

      On Friday November 21, 2025, ECS-II Michael Mills, ECS-II Julie Fogle and ECS-I Stephanie Lear’s adherence to policies, procedures and protocols combined with their exemplary communication and calm under pressure demeanors ensured cohesive teamwork throughout a very busy and high stress day of police communications.

     

       The day began with a subject reporting a dead body, followed by a supervisor requesting a welfare check for a unit he believed to be in a fight due to an open line pocket dial, to a residential burglary with the 1st 10-3 of the day for a subject at taser point and deployment. The day continued with the 2nd 10-3 of a subject with a gun and eventually led to the 3rd 10-3 of the day when a unit observed a vehicle driving southbound in the northbound lanes of Route15 during rush hour which led to a multijurisdictional chase with multiple stop stick deployments and ended in a PIT maneuver with barricade.

 

          ECS-II Mills, ECS-II Fogle and ECS-I Lear’s cohesive teamwork and communication were especially exemplified during the high-speed pursuit which involved a wrong-way driver with children in the vehicle. It was reported that the vehicle nearly struck several officers, units and other vehicles on the road. Stop stick deployments did not seem to slow the vehicle and when the Corporal announced that a PIT maneuver was to be attempted. ECS-II Mills, ECS-II Fogle and ECS-I Lear continued their duties, ever ready for whatever requests would follow. When the vehicle was disabled and announcements were made of the occupants

not complying, ECS-II Mills continued to ensure that these transmissions were properly documented and relayed.

 

        Throughout the chase ECS-II Mills’ communication remained concise and free of unnecessary radio traffic and emphasized safety messages. ECS-II Fogle did not hesitate to hop in on the alternate channel and assist as needed at the direction of the Emergency Communications Manager and Supervisor. ECS-I Lear, although still training on the radio, ensured that ancillary tasks, phone calls and communication amongst the room were completed.

 

       The consistent cross-checking of information, rapid verification of officer requests, and synchronized updates to involved jurisdictions demonstrated a high level of cohesion and teamwork that is essential to Frederick County Department of Emergency Communications. Despite the elevated stress and potential for catastrophic outcomes, all dispatchers maintained a calm and composed demeanor. Their professionalism minimized the chaos, supported the deputies, and ensured that everyone remained safe. Their actions reflected a deep understanding of their responsibilities and the vital role dispatchers play in the successful resolution of high-risk incidents. For this we would like to recognize and commend ECS-II Mills, ECS-II Fogle and ECS-I Lear for a job well done and having ‘strength in numbers.’

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Customer First Award: 

Roxanne Greenawalt

     Roxanne Greenawalt consistently provides exceptional customer service while processing calls for service. ECS Greenawalt continually goes above and beyond expectations, setting a strong example of customer service, empathy, professionalism and compassion.

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      Quality Assurance reviewers have noted her outstanding performance by saying, “Every call I’ve heard has been processed in a compliant, respectful, and empathetic manner. Her compliance is outstanding; however, her greatest asset is her exceptional customer service skills.” In addition, “Roxanne’s customer service is excellent, and she has a gift for making questions seem natural and conversational.”

 

       It is through call processing like this that ECS Roxanne Greenawalt demonstrates and upholds our core values of respect and service. She exemplifies the highest levels of professionalism and customer service in every interaction.

 

      Roxanne continues to be a positive asset to the department, and her dedication and customer service skillset deserve recognition therefore, she is receiving the “Customer First” Award.

Loudoun County Fire & Rescue, VA

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Outstanding Contributions to the Emergency Communications Center Award:

Jeannie Cooper

     This year’s award recipient for Outstanding Contributions to the Emergency Communications Center is Training Coordinator Jeannie Cooper.

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     Jeannie continually demonstrates exceptional passion and desire to improve the Emergency Communications Center. Her work has strengthened the foundation of operations, and improved consistency and accuracy in service delivery. She approaches areas for improvement with professionalism and determination, never hesitating to address challenges directly.

 

      In her tenure, Jeannie has made a meaningful impact on staff development by encouraging open communication, promoting professional development, and creating an environment where learning is embraced. She leads by example, modeling accountability, professionalism, and a strong work ethic that inspires others to strive for excellence.

 

     Jeannie has successfully completed her APCO RPL and CPE certifications, secured accreditation for the Loudoun County Fire and Rescue ECC Training Program and was instrumental in the accreditation of the Emergency Medical Dispatch and Emergency Fire Dispatch programs. She has made a lasting and meaningful impact on both individuals and the organization, making her highly deserve this recognition. Please join us in recognizing and congratulating Training Coordinator Jeannie Cooper as the recipient for this year’s Outstanding Contributions to the ECC Award!

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Excellence Under the Headset Award:

Stephanie Griffiths

       Throughout 2025 Dispatcher Stephanie Griffiths has demonstrated exceptional dedication to Loudoun County Fire and Rescue by consistently contributing to her professional development and the overall success of the LCFR ECC. She approaches each shift with enthusiasm and a strong desire to learn, while remaining dependable and supportive of her peers. She actively seeks clarity when needed and brings forward innovative, thoughtful ideas that enhance team operations. Her passion for emergency communications is evident, as she continually fosters a positive, engaging work environment.

 

       Over the past year, Stephanie has grown significantly as both a dispatcher and a leader. She serves as a trusted resource and mentor, promoting accountability, teamwork, and engagement. Her commitment to self-improvement is demonstrated through her rigorous workload, which included participation in the Tri-State Banquet Committee, certification as a Communications Training Officer, and Communications Center Supervisor, in addition to her preparation and participation in the Assistant Supervisor process. She is highly receptive to feedback and continuously seeks opportunities to improve both herself and the ECC.

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       As a mentor, Stephanie supports new employees and contributes to team development. She quickly emerged as a trusted leader. Her work ethic, initiative, and positive influence make her an invaluable member of the team and highly deserving of this recognition.

 

        Loudoun County Fire and Rescue would like to recognize Dispatcher Stephanie Griffiths as this year’s Excellence Under the Headset award recipient!

Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, VA

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Excellence In Leadership Award:

Kyle Gift-Moore

       Communications Training Officer Kyle Gift-Moore is a 4-year member of the Communications Center team. We are proud to honor Kyle for his exceptional leadership. On every shift, he guides and supports the team with clarity, confidence, and dedication, ensuring tasks are assigned effectively and everything runs smoothly. During training, Kyle takes the time to explain processes clearly, ensuring everyone understands and feels confident. He leads by example, showing reliability and professionalism that others can depend on every day. For his guidance, patience, and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, we proudly present Kyle with the Excellence in Leadership Award.

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Teamwork Award:

Daniel Pryce

        Public Safety Telecommunicator Daniel Pryce is a 5-year member of the Communications Center Team. We are thrilled to honor Daniel for his outstanding teamwork. Daniel consistently supports his co-workers and the mission of the ECC, always stepping up to help—especially during busy periods—without being asked.

 

        As an EMD mentor, he is a trusted resource, guiding others with expertise and patience. He welcomes feedback and uses it to grow, setting a positive example for the team. In every interaction—with callers, fellow dispatchers, deputies, or outside agencies, Daniel is polite, professional, and respectful. His positive attitude and constant willingness to assist make him an exceptional teammate. For his dedication, guidance, and collaborative spirit, we proudly present Daniel with the Teamwork Award.

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Calm Award:

Molly Rau

        Communications Training Officer Molly Rau is a 6 ½ year member of the Communications Team. We are proud to honor Molly for her exceptional calmness under pressure. During high-priority calls and critical incidents, she remains composed, bringing reassurance and confidence to every caller. Her voice is steady and comforting, never sounding stressed or overwhelmed, and she consistently supports her teammates with knowledge and guidance. Molly’s professionalism and calm presence inspire everyone around her. For her poise, her support, and the confidence she instills in others, we proudly present Molly with the Voice in the Calm Award.

Montgomery County, MD

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Sweet Treats Award:

John Milkintas

     Supervisor John Milkintas demonstrates through his continuous efforts to provide for his shift his steadfastness and unwavering dedication to his peers, employees, and job. He regularly spends his own money to keep a treat basket stocked, much to the delight of all shifts. Whenever someone is having a rough day, they can count on John to provide immediate and immense gratification of a tasty pick-me-up. C Squad frequently uses any situation as a reason to celebrate its staff - whether it's someone passing a test, getting checked off or just as a monthly treat. John is usually the first to offer to either bring in the treat or contribute to it...especially for desserts. He delights in supplying holiday-themed candy and frequently includes novelty treats as gifts for his fellow supervisors and employees. The entire center enjoys the “sweets” of his labors.

 

     He does not limit his generosity. County Security has noted his kind spirit and frequently commends him. "John always offers a kind word to Security, including us in special events at PSCC. He is always willing to engage in conversation and recognizes and appreciates the job we do. He always remains professional but genuinely sincere; he is nothing shy of a true leader/manager. His approachable demeanor and willingness to engage anyone with respect and kindness are very commendable and appreciated."

 

     On a more serious note, Supervisor Milkintas is extremely knowledgeable and skilled. He easily fields questions and complaints from employees and is often the go-to person for perplexing situations. He often thrives in unique situations and provides different perspectives on performance plans and procedures. In addition to his commendable performance at work, he remains humble and is never afraid to admit he doesn't know something - he always finds the answer though! He finds innovative fun ways to spread information and moves the center forward in a positive manner.

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Telecommunicator of the Year Award:

Henry Estrada

Montgomery County proudly nominates PSECSIV Henry Estrada for Telecommunicator of the Year.  Always coming into work with a smile and welcoming all new Specialists in Training/applicants, Henry brings joy to the center.  He enthusiastically participates in center-wide activities and rallies support while encouraging co-workers to participate.  He is an invaluable member of the ECC Peer Support team and has been called upon to offer support to colleagues often.  He is a certified multi-language specialist and shares his skills with colleagues and callers daily.  He gives of himself joyously, generously, and is ready to console co-workers after a tough incident while praising co-workers for a "job well done."  Henry is always one of the first to volunteer when anyone needs help on a call, dispatch, or when a supervisor needs to change assignments.  He stays calm under pressure and has a proactive approach which is evident through incidents he has handled within the past year.  On March 3rd, he took a 1st party caller who was shot in the chest, quickly getting the call sent for dispatch and immediately provided lifesaving instructions to the caller.  Information was quickly and accurately passed along to the responders, and the victim was successfully transferred to the hospital.  On March 29th, he dispatched a suspicious open line disconnect and when units were on scene, they quickly asked for restricted air, more units priority with shields.  He did not miss a transmission nor a beat when units out of nowhere started making request after request.  Shortly after, an ERT was initiated for a subject who went inside a location with a weapon inside his pocket.  These are just a few examples of the outstanding work Henry has done over the past year.  We are honored to nominate PSECSIV Estrada for this award and look forward to his contributions to the center in this upcoming year! 

Washington County, MD

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Legacy Award:

Jason Kline

         We have the honor of recognizing a true cornerstone of our 911 center — Jason Kline — as the recipient of the Washington County Legacy Award.

 

        This award is reserved for those who have dedicated over 20 years of service, and Jason’s journey is one that truly reflects the evolution of our center. He began his career in 2003 at our original location on West Washington Street — working out of the basement, where fire and EMS were dispatched, and 911 calls were still answered with the same level of professionalism and care we expect today.

 

       In 2010, when the county consolidated operations and moved to our facility on Elliott Parkway in Williamsport, Jason was right there — stepping into a leadership role as a Floor Supervisor. From there, he transitioned into a CAD Specialist position, becoming one of the most knowledgeable and trusted resources in our entire operation.

 

        But what really speaks to Jason’s character is what happened next. A few years ago, he realized he missed being on the floor — missed the pace, the people, and the purpose — and he returned to where it all started. Today, Jason serves as an ECS III and as an upgrade for the center, continuing to bring leadership, experience, and stability to every shift he works.

 

         Jason is the definition of loyalty and dedication. He rarely uses sick leave, is always willing to step up and take overtime, and is known

by everyone as the “go-to” person — especially when it comes to CAD. If there’s a question, Jason has the answer… and if he doesn’t, he’ll find it. He is also continuing to serve this center in another critical way — helping guide us through system upgrades and improvements, ensuring we continue to grow and adapt for the future.

 

       Quite simply, Jason Kline represents the heart of this organization. His experience, his work ethic, and his unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on every one of us and on this center as a whole.

Jason — thank you for your 20+ years of service, your leadership, and your legacy. Congratulations!

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Teamwork Award:

Dwayne Flook
Alan Craword
Beth Dattilio
Derek Bish
Aaron Myers
Shirley Lui
Courtney Weaver
Joe Arch
Amanda Wagner

Emily Buffenmyer
Bill Haines
Bethani Mummert
Isabella Nicewarner
Todd Nesbitt
Ethan Grim
James Miller
Maggie Keller
Brandi Campbell
Ysabella Galvan

     On the evening of April 19th, 2025, while 20 of our 9-1-1 center employees were enjoying the 2024-year Tri-State Telecommunicators Banquet at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in Charles Town, West Virginia, a powerful storm system was rapidly developing to the west of Washington County. Little did anyone realize that storm would soon hit back home in Washington County with tremendous force.

 

     These are the worst kind of storms- fast moving, with little warning, and devastating impact. The first calls for service quickly confirmed that Washington County was directly in the path of a severe storm producing dangerous wind shear conditions.

 

      Supervisor Dwayne Flook immediately recognized the seriousness of the situation and issued an urgent call for additional staffing.

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      Many of our personnel who had been attending the banquet were traveling home and encountered the storm firsthand. Once the “all hands on deck” request went out, several staff members quickly responded and went in route to the center.

 

     At 9 PM, the center received 109 calls. By 10 PM, call volume surged to an astounding 995 calls in just one hour. Due to the overwhelming number of residents call 9-1-1 simultaneously, some calls were not answered instantly. Calls continued through the evening and early morning hours with 271 calls at 11 PM. 70 calls at Midnight, 42 calls at 1 AM, and 31 calls at 2 AM. Although not every call could be answered immediately during that peak time of the storm, by 11 PM, all missed calls had received a callback from one of the employees to verify whether assistance was still needed. The grand total for the event was 1,518 calls in just 5.5 hours- an unprecedented volume for our center.

 

     In addition to handling the extraordinary call volume, our telecommunicators were still responsible for ensuring that all responders were arriving safely to their destinations despite the hazardous road conditions. They closely monitored units while on scene, maintaining constant communication and situational awareness to protect the safety of our law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and public works crews that were operating in the dangerous conditions.

 

     Dispatchers and call takers also had to quickly determine which routes responders were taking in order to help navigate the many closed roads, downed trees, live wires, and other traffic hazards that stood in their way. As conditions changed minute by minute, our team worked diligently to redirect units, provide updates, and ensure the safest and most efficient paths possible under extremely challenging circumstances.

 

    Most importantly, the citizens of Washington County were well taken care of on April 19th, 2025. Despite the overwhelming call volume and severe weather conditions, every effort was made to answer, respond follow up, and ensure the safety of both our community and our responders. That night demonstrated the strength, dedication, professionalism, and resilience of the men and women who serve our community. When Washington County needed us most, our team answered. Thank you all for your unwavering dedication and teamwork. Congratulations!

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Dispatcher of the Year Award:

Amanda Wagner

      It is truly an honor to stand before you today to recognize an exceptional individual as the Washington County 911 Dispatcher of the Year — Amanda Wagner.

 

     Amanda exemplifies everything we hope for in a public safety professional. She is extremely approachable, always willing to lend a hand, and highly capable of working in any discipline. Whether it’s law enforcement, fire, or EMS, Amanda brings confidence, skill, and professionalism to every call she handles.

 

      Amanda has served as a Communications Training Officer for several years, and in that role, she has helped shape the next generation of dispatchers with patience, knowledge, and dedication.

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     One story that truly captures Amanda’s impact comes from a trainee who shared their experience working alongside her. The trainee said, “I was new to law enforcement dispatching when a suicide in progress call came in that escalated into a standoff. Amanda managed a channel restriction, handled multiple radio channels, and relayed critical information between our county and Jefferson County — all while guiding me through the situation.” That moment speaks volumes about Amanda’s ability to remain calm under pressure, multitask at an elite level, and mentor others even in the most intense situations.

 

     Amanda’s professionalism also shined during the fatal house fire on National Pike — an incident that received significant media attention. As the primary fire dispatcher, she demonstrated outstanding attention to detail and composure, earning commendations from DES staff for her exceptional work.

 

     And somehow, Amanda does all of this while maintaining an incredible balance outside of work. As one coworker put it, “I’m not sure how she takes on as much overtime as she does — especially being a busy wife and a sports mom to four extremely athletic children.” That level of dedication is nothing short of inspiring.

 

     Now stepping into her role as a Supervisor Upgrade, there is no doubt she will continue to lead, mentor, and set the standard for excellence.

Amanda, your commitment, professionalism, and heart for this job do not go unnoticed. You represent the very best of Washington County. Congratulations on being named 911 Dispatcher of the Year — this recognition is well deserved!

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Supervisor of the Year Award:

Alan Crawford

    It is truly an honor to recognize this year’s Supervisor of the Year, Alan Crawford.

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    Alan is the kind of leader every organization hopes to have — a true “glass half full” manager. No matter how busy the shift or how challenging the situation is, Alan consistently reminds his team how fortunate they are — not just to have the job they have, but to possess the skills they bring to it every single day. That perspective is powerful, and it sets the tone for everything he does.

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      Although Alan was recently promoted to Operations Manager and is no longer on the floor day-to-day, his presence is still deeply felt — and very much missed. That alone speaks volumes about the impact he had and continues to have on this team.

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      What truly sets Alan apart is how he treats people. It doesn’t matter the role, the experience level, or the situation at hand- Alan approaches everyone with the same level of professionalism, respect, and courtesy. He creates an environment where people feel valued and supported. And just as importantly, he never makes anyone feel less than capable in doing their job.

 

        Alan is also the kind of supervisor who never hesitates to step in. He is always aware, always paying attention, and always ready to jump in and help — not because he has to, but because that’s who he is as a leader.

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        One of our newer supervisors shared something that really captures Alan’s impact. They said they were incredibly grateful to have Alan guide them through their transition into a leadership role — and that there is no one else they would have rather had by their side. That speaks volumes about his mentorship and the confidence he builds in others.

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      Alan, your leadership, your positivity, and your unwavering support for your team do not go unnoticed. You make people better, and you make this organization stronger. Congratulations on being named Supervisor of the Year — it is truly well deserved!

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