2025 Spring Recipients

Karen Webster-Stewart

Administrative Services Assistant 2
Agriculture

Karen Stewart-Webster has dedicated twenty-five years to the Food and Dairy Division of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. She began her career in data entry and financial processing before progressively advancing to key administrative roles. Throughout her tenure, she has played a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance and enhancing operational efficiency.

Recognized for her strong work ethic, Karen has trained and mentored every administrative assistant in the division, helping to build a knowledgeable and effective team. Her expertise has significantly contributed to the safety and quality of Tennessee’s food supply, benefiting both producers and consumers.

Karen’s commitment to public service is evident in her proactive approach to solving challenges and supporting her colleagues. Before joining the department, she balanced multiple jobs while earning her associate’s degree, showcasing her resilience and determination. Her integrity, problem-solving abilities, and dedication have earned her the respect of both her colleagues and leadership.

Karen’s ongoing contributions leave a lasting positive impact on the division and the state, making her an invaluable asset to the department and a dedicated public servant.

Una Norwood

Team Coordinator
Children's Services

Una Norwood began her career with the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services in 2012 as a Case Manager. Over the years, her dedication and expertise led to several promotions, first becoming a Case Manager 3 in 2015 and then advancing to a Team Leader position in 2017. As of 2023, Una proudly serves as the Team Coordinator, where she continues to make a significant impact within the department.

Una is a valuable member of the regional leadership team, known for her positive attitude and child-focused, solution-driven approach. Community partners often mention how refreshing it is to work with her, noting her effectiveness as a leader and team player. In recognition of her efforts, she was named the Mid-Cumberland Employee of the Year in 2022, demonstrating her dedication to the well-being of children and families in the community.

Una graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with her undergraduate degree in social work in 2012 and earned her master’s degree in 2018. Her strong educational background, combined with her extensive experience, equips her to excel in her current role in state government. Her knowledge and insights have also led her to be recognized as an expert witness by the juvenile court judge.

Leigh Ferguson

Deputy General Counsel
Commerce and Insurance

Leigh Ferguson has dedicated fourteen years to the State of Tennessee. She currently serves as the Deputy General Counsel for Fire Prevention, Law Enforcement, and Procurement at the Department of Commerce and Insurance. Leigh has consistently shown outstanding commitment by efficiently supporting her team and clients in establishing grant programs. Her proactive approach ensures the seamless development of new grants or extensions, directly benefiting law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and rescue squads.

Throughout her tenure, she has made significant contributions and gained valuable experience with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development and the Administrative Office of the Courts. In addition to her impressive professional background, Leigh is actively pursuing further education to bolster her expertise. This fall, she is set to begin her Ph.D. in public policy and administration at Tennessee State University, demonstrating her ongoing dedication to excellence and leadership in the field of public service.

Originally from Shelby County, Leigh has made Nashville her home. She finds great fulfillment in collaborating with her dedicated team in Commerce and Insurance and feels that her role with the State of Tennessee is a true privilege. Her commitment to public service is evident in her focus on developing innovative solutions that not only advance the department’s mission but also enhance the lives of Tennessee’s citizens. 

Ashraf Gabous

Deputy Director of Fiscal Services
Correction

With over two decades of state service, Ashraf Gabous has established himself as an expert in financial management and compliance. He has served as the Deputy Director of Fiscal Services for the Tennessee Department of Corrections (TDOC) since June 2012, after launching his career with the department as an Internal Audit Supervisor in April 2001. In his current role, Ashraf directs a comprehensive suite of fiscal services,

ensuring robust fiscal accountability and strict adherence to state regulations.

Ashraf’s leadership ensures that the department effectively meets customer needs, while his professionalism and integrity have garnered respect from both colleagues and stakeholders. He consistently aligns his work with the TDOC’s core values and maintains the highest ethical standards in financial operations. Outside of his professional commitments, Ashraf values family time, cherishing moments with his wife and two daughters.

Ashraf holds a Master of Professional Studies from Tennessee State University and a Bachelor of Science in from Assiut University in Egypt. He is a graduate of LEAD TN, the Tennessee Government Management Institute, and the Tennessee Government Executive Institute.  

Sarah Clarke

TEIS - Social Counselor 2
Disability and Aging

Sarah Clarke has dedicated the past five years to supporting families in her state role. Currently, she is in her fourth year with the Tennessee Early Intervention System, within the Department of Disability and Aging.

Sarah is an integral team member, always ready to support her colleagues. In the office, Sarah celebrates the children’s achievements with great enthusiasm, and families genuinely appreciate her warmth and trust her implicitly. They often reach out to share updates and special moments, reflecting their deep appreciation for her support. She is truly passionate about her role, often declaring, “I absolutely love what I do!” Her dedication shines through in every interaction, making a significant difference in the lives of the families she serves. Her kindness, commitment, and enthusiasm make her a highly valued part of the Memphis Delta TEIS office.

Outside of work, Sarah makes the most of her time with family and friends. As a proud mother of two sons, Fischer, who is in his fourth year of medical school, and Tate, who is preparing to graduate from college. Sarah understands the importance of family. She also has a cherished dog, Maddie, who brings joy to her life.

Alaire Brown

Director of Operations for Community and Rural Development
Economic and Community Development

Alaire Brown has served the State of Tennessee for eight years and currently holds the position of Director of Operations for the Community and Rural Development team at the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development. In this role, she oversees the administration of eight statewide grant programs that drive economic growth and support community development in rural areas across Tennessee. Her responsibilities span the full grant lifecycle, from application review and contracting to compliance oversight, closeout, and program evaluation.

With a background in economics, political science, and public administration, Alaire is deeply committed to improving government operations to better serve communities. Her leadership has been critical in helping communities navigate complex project requirements and access essential resources. She has further enhanced her public service capabilities through leadership programs, including Nashville Emerging Leaders, the Tennessee Government Management Institute, and the Tennessee Economic & Community Development Commissioner’s Leadership Academy.

Originally from Chattanooga, Alaire now lives in Nashville with her husband and their dog. She is active in the community and brings energy, compassion, and dedication to everything she does—both professionally and personally.

Phara Williams

Senior Director of IEA, ESA, and EFS
Education

Phara Williams has dedicated over thirteen years of service to the State of Tennessee. She currently serves as the Senior Director of the Individualized Education Account, Education Savings Account, and Education Finance Systems programs within the Tennessee Department of Education. In her roles, she leads critical statewide initiatives that support families, promote accountability, and improve access to high-quality education options throughout Tennessee.

Phara started her education career in 1996 at Alamo Elementary in Alamo, Tennessee. After teaching until 2000, she worked in social work until 2002. She then returned to education as a reading specialist, later becoming pre-K director, assistant principal, and reading interventionist. In 2011, she joined the Tennessee Department of Education as a consultant. By 2021, she was the Early Childhood Transition Director, then became the Director of Individualized Education Account programming, and now serves in a senior leadership role as of 2024.

With a Master of Science in education, Phara is passionate about early childhood development and is dedicated to ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed. Originally from West Tennessee, she values family time and enjoys staying engaged in her community.

Tina Pennington

Procurement Senior Advisor
Environment and Conservation

Since starting her state career in 1985, Tina Pennington has built an impressive forty-year legacy in public service. She currently serves as the Procurement Senior Advisor in the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), where her experience, dedication, and steady leadership support essential operations and agency-wide success.

Tina consistently exceeds expectations by providing exceptional customer service. Recently, she collaborated with Strategic Technology Solutions (STS) on procuring and customizing a new IT infrastructure for TDEC, ensuring the project was completed carefully and intentionally. Tina shows a strong commitment to TDEC’s core values by leading by example, treating colleagues and customers with respect and integrity, and always striving for excellence.

Outside of her professional life, she enjoys the freedom of riding her motorcycle and treasures every moment spent with her four grandchildren.

Josh Reedy

Enterprise IT Business Program Support - Lead
Finance and Administration

Josh Reedy has proudly served the State of Tennessee since January 2020. He currently holds the position of Enterprise IT Business Program Support - Lead at Strategic Technology Solutions (STS), where he plays a key role in managing the procurement and lifecycle of software assets across STS and its consolidated agencies.

Before joining STS, Josh built a solid foundation in IT support while working at an architecture and engineering firm in West Tennessee. His hands-on experience supporting clients and solving technology problems has given him a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field. Josh led the transition to enterprise Grammarly licensing for the state, delivering outstanding results. He smoothly coordinated teams for a seamless implementation, fixed technical issues accurately, and introduced Single Sign-On to improve user experience. His leadership resulted in significant cost savings, increased efficiency, and easier access for hundreds of state employees.

Josh, a native of Jackson, Tennessee, is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee. He is married to Stephanie, a fellow state employee, and they have a son named Tyson. Together, Josh and Stephanie raise Tyson with a strong sense of community and a shared love for the Tennessee Volunteers.

Timothy Runions

Division Manager, Bank Division 
Financial Institutions

Timothy Runions started his career with the Tennessee Department of Financial Institutions in September 1993 as a Bank Examiner. Over the years, he has held several important roles within the department, including Trust Examiner and Regional Supervisor. Timothy was promoted to Division Manager and now leads the West Tennessee Examination Team within the Bank Division.

With over thirty years of regulatory experience, he plays a key role in aligning the Department’s mission with all activities, emphasizing a risk-based examination approach. He manages the West Examination Team, ensuring regulatory fairness while supporting financial institutions in contributing to economic development. His leadership is essential for maintaining the stability of West Tennessee’s financial institutions, helping them stay strong contributors to the state’s economic growth.

Timothy holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and economics from the University of Tennessee at Martin. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he is a committed community leader, having served as the mayor of Hollow Rock, TN, a chief financial officer, and a school board member. He is married and the proud father of two children and grandfather to two grandchildren.

Michelle Hamm

Production Technician 3
General Services

Michelle Hamm began her career with the State of Tennessee in May of 1996. She initially worked in the Postal Section and later joined the Department of Tourist Development, where she played a key role in delivering maps and vacation guides to visitors from the U.S., Canada, and England. After promoting Tennessee’s beauty to many travelers, Michelle returned to the Postal Section in 2016 as a Production Technician.

Michelle exemplifies dedication and excellence in her role, consistently exceeding expectations to support her team and enhance operations. ​ She takes the initiative to conduct training sessions for new team members, sharing her valuable technical expertise to ensure their success. ​ Her quick thinking and problem-solving skills are evident in her ability to navigate complex situations, such as addressing challenges with customer mailing formats. ​ Michelle’s proactive approach and commitment to collaboration continue to drive the team’s focus on delivering exceptional service and achieving operational excellence. ​

Outside of work, Michelle is a devoted wife of forty-two years, a proud mother of two daughters, and a loving grandmother to three granddaughters, one grandson, and another granddaughter expected in September. She enjoys gardening, yard work, painting, and creating beautiful pieces using gallery glass crafts. The most rewarding aspect of her job is the close relationships she shares with her coworkers and peers, whom she proudly refers to as her “work family.”

Becky LaPointe

Hardin County Health Department - Public Health Nutrition Educator
Health

Since October 2022, Becky LaPointe has been making a significant impact in Hardin County and nearby areas. As a Public Health Nutrition Educator, she is recognized as the top nutrition provider in the West Region. Becky’s dedication shines through her relentless efforts to remove barriers to services, enhance access to benefits, and build strong relationships with clients and community partners.

Becky consistently exceeds expectations in her work, whether it’s finding infant formula during her personal time, providing remote WIC services to nearby counties, or establishing hospital WIC programs to assist new mothers. Her compassion, empathy, and proactive attitude have made her the top nutrition provider in the West Region, with over 1,000 benefits issued across three counties in just a few months.

As a former Girl Scout Leader, she embodies positivity and compassion, always ready to lend a smile and understanding ear to her clients. Outside of her professional life, Becky has been married to her husband, Robert, for three years and is a proud mother of five and grandmother of six. She shares her home with one dog, seven cats, and five chickens. Becky enjoys cooking, baking, gardening, and learning about science.

Pershang Tovi

Talent Management Program Consultant
Human Resources

Pershang Tovi joined the State of Tennessee in March of 2024 and currently serves as a Talent Management Program Consultant with the Department of Human Resources. She has played a key role in advancing the mission of Human Resources through thoughtful and strategic contributions. Pershang approaches each interaction with intentional curiosity and an open mind, which has made her a trusted partner across agencies and teams.

Pershang quickly became a valuable asset by understanding agency needs and focusing on employee development. She established a comprehensive ROI reporting mechanism to help agencies track the impact of their leadership program investments. Additionally, her innovative initiative to promote LinkedIn Learning increased usage by 9%, providing Tennessee State Government with a higher return on investment and greater access to learning resources for state employees. Her efforts have significantly enhanced the state’s investment in employee development.

Pershang holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in industrial and organizational psychology from Middle Tennessee State University. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and hiking, finding balance and inspiration in nature. Her passion for professional development, combined with her thoughtful and proactive approach, continues to make a lasting impact on Tennessee’s workforce.

Keisha Thaxton

Director of Operations for SNAP, TANF, and Community Grants
Human Services

Keisha Thaxton has been with the State of Tennessee for over twenty years and currently serves as the Director of Operations with the Tennessee Department of Human Services. In this role, she provides direct oversight of program operations for SNAP, TANF, and Community Grants programs, and she. She is primarily responsible for development, process improvement, and partnership engagement.

Keisha demonstrates exceptional dedication to the Department’s customers through her outstanding leadership and commitment to quality service. She actively engages with her management team, addressing concerns and developing effective solutions. Frequently tasked with leading high-profile projects, her expertise in process improvement and strategic planning significantly enhances customer impact. In her role overseeing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), she has implemented a strategic plan that ensures timely and accurate service delivery, resulting in notable improvements in customer service performance.

Keisha holds a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering science and a master’s degree in engineering technology. Keisha’s commitment to the agency’s core values drives her to deliver exceptional support to both the communities served and her internal teams, advancing the mission to improve the lives of Tennessee families.

Leah Dorton

Unemployment Program Specialist 4
Labor and Workforce Development

Leah Dorton began her career with the State of Tennessee in March of 2016 as an Employment Claims Agent with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Since then, she has received four promotions and currently serves as an Unemployment Program Specialist 4. In this role, Leah manages the federal and combined wage units of the Unemployment Claims Division. She is dedicated to ensuring eligible claimants receive their benefits while they seek new employment, consistently demonstrating a strong commitment to service and operational excellence.

Over the years, Leah has earned the trust and respect of both her colleagues and the individuals she serves. Her career has been marked by a clear focus on customer satisfaction, accuracy, and continuous improvement. Her dedication to helping others navigate challenging times has made her a valuable asset to the department and a reliable resource in the unemployment claims process.

Leah was born and raised in Pinewood, located in Hickman County, Tennessee. She graduated from Hickman County High School and attended Lipscomb University in Nashville. Outside of work, Leah enjoys attending church, cooking, and spending time in nature. She and her spouse are proud parents to two adorable children: Abigail, age six, and Avery, age three.

Melissa Sparks

Deputy Chief of Hospital Operations
Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services

Melissa Sparks, a Nashville native, began her career with the State of Tennessee in 1993 and currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Hospital Operations for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. In her current role, she supports the Chief of Operations with the daily oversight, leadership, and management of the state’s four Regional Mental Health Institutes. Additionally, she oversees the department’s contract with three private hospitals in East Tennessee that provide inpatient psychiatric services to uninsured individuals.

Before her appointment as Deputy Chief of Hospital Operations in August 2022, Melissa served in various key leadership roles, including Unit Nursing Coordinator, Director of Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention, and Deputy Assistant Commissioner. Her extensive experience in both clinical and administrative roles reflects a deep commitment to improving behavioral health services across the state.

Melissa is known for her compassionate approach and unwavering dedication to patient care. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that patients and their families receive high-quality services tailored to their needs. Her guiding principle is to treat individuals living with mental illness with the same dignity and respect she would want for herself and her loved ones.

Melissa holds a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee Tech University and a Master of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University. Outside of work, she values time with family, service to others, and promoting mental health awareness within her community.

Angela Carr

Payroll Supervisor
Military

Angela Carr is a Payroll Supervisor in the Military Department. She began her career as an Administrative Services Assistant 3 in March 2022 and, through hard work and dedication, quickly rose to Administrative Services Assistant 5 by 2024. With over twenty years of customer service and administrative experience, Angela is dedicated to professional growth and thrives in fast-paced environments.

Angela demonstrates exceptional dedication and commitment in her role within the Military Department. She approaches every task proactively, ensuring that priorities are met and deadlines are achieved. Her innovative problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail lead to high-quality work. Deeply goal-oriented, Angela focuses on both short-term and long-term objectives to drive her performance. She is committed to advancing her team’s opportunities for continuing education and career growth while pursuing her bachelor’s degree to strengthen her expertise within the department. Her drive for continuous improvement and adaptability makes her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Outside of work, Angela enjoys traveling with her husband, deer hunting, and participating in the Nashville Accordion Society, where she shares her passion for music.

Pamela LeBlanc

Taxpayer Services Manager
Revenue

Pamela LeBlanc began her career with the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s Taxpayer Services Division in 2019 as a Customer Service Representative. Demonstrating strong leadership and a commitment to excellence, she was promoted to Taxpayer Service Manager in 2021.

Pamela consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication in her role as Taxpayer Service Manager by ensuring that every customer interaction is handled with care and professionalism. She is known for her proactive approach to addressing taxpayer concerns, often identifying solutions that streamline processes and improve customer satisfaction. Pamela’s leadership inspires her team to uphold the highest standards of service, and her ability to navigate complex situations with empathy and expertise makes her a trusted resource for both colleagues and customers. Her commitment to excellence reflects the values of her department and positively represents Tennessee State Government. ​

Before joining the state, Pamela earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University. Her experience laid a strong foundation for the work she does today in public service. Outside of work, Pamela is a proud mother to her 12-year-old daughter, Sophia. She and her family are deeply committed to serving others, both in their community and through their personal values.

Tiffany Morgan

Executive Director, Driver Services Divisions
Safety and Homeland Security

Tiffanie Morgan has been serving the State of Tennessee since 2013 and currently holds the position of Executive Director of the Driver Services Division, a role she was promoted to in April 2025. ​ In this role, Tiffanie oversees all aspects of the Driver Services Division, including field operations, financial responsibility, commercial driver license, and technology services units. ​ Tiffanie is a trusted and invaluable member of the Safety and Homeland Security team, dedicated to ensuring Tennesseans receive efficient and effective service. ​

Tiffanie consistently goes above and beyond in her work, demonstrating a servant’s heart and a commitment to improving processes and customer service. ​ She has played a pivotal role in the Division’s reorganization, development of rules, policies, and processes, and modernization of credential issuance. ​ Her leadership was instrumental during the REAL ID initiative, where her team served thousands of Tennesseans through special events.​ Tiffanie is a subject matter expert in financial responsibility and is always willing to assist customers, teammates, and staff, ensuring the department is represented positively every day. ​​

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Tiffanie is a devoted wife, mother of two daughters, and grandmother to one granddaughter. Her strong family values and passion for service shape her work and personal life. Tiffanie’s dedication, experience, and leadership continue to positively influence the lives of Tennessee residents every day.

Barbara Snow

Member Services Data Steward
TennCare

Barbara Snow has dedicated nearly twenty-eight years of service to the State of Tennessee. She began her career by answering calls on the TennCare hotline, where she advocated for individuals in need of care. She currently serves as a respected leader within TennCare, helping guide the agency’s mission to provide high-quality healthcare services to some of Tennessee’s most vulnerable populations. In her current role, Barbara is instrumental in aligning team goals and work objectives with TennCare’s mission, ensuring that her team’s efforts directly support the people they serve.

Throughout her career, Barbara has established herself as a knowledgeable and compassionate advocate for TennCare members and their families. She has extensive expertise in critical systems that support these efforts, consistently enhancing and contributing to their success by ensuring accuracy, integrity, and improved outcomes for everyone involved. Barbara’s leadership style is rooted in core values, and she leads by example, instilling a culture of accountability, excellence, and compassion within her team.

A proud native of Clarksville, Tennessee, Barbara finds fulfillment in knowing that her work makes a tangible difference in people’s lives, and she takes pride in helping TennCare members receive the care they need and deserve.

Danielle (Dani) Crear

Welcome Center Coordinator
Tourist Development

Danielle (Dani) Crear has been with the State of Tennessee since May 2023, when she enthusiastically joined the Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) as the Welcome Center Coordinator. In this role, she organizes welcome center tours, manages approval services, and supports the department’s service coordinator and team members with various tasks to assist central office operations.

Dani consistently goes above and beyond in her work. In 2025, she led the Tennessee Songwriters Week project, expanding the program through new partnerships and enhancing community engagement. By anticipating challenges and developing effective solutions, she contributed to the initiative’s success and received praise for her outstanding customer service and strategic vision from both her team and stakeholders. Her commitment and enthusiasm are reflected in the positive feedback she receives, solidifying her reputation as a key player in the TDTD team.

Originally from Gloucester, Massachusetts, Dani earned her Bachelor of Arts in hospitality and tourism management with a minor in arts administration from Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida. Currently, she is pursuing her master’s degree in strategic and digital communication. Outside of her career, Dani has a passion for attending concerts, traveling, and spending quality time with friends, showcasing her love for experiences and connection.

Chance Dittfurth

TDOT Supervisor
Transportation

Chance Dittfurth has been with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) since 2004, starting his career as a Transportation Technician 1. Over the years, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his work and was recently promoted to TDOT Supervisor in 2024. In his current role at the Rutherford County Construction Office, Chance plays a critical part in overseeing transportation projects, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget while maintaining high standards of quality.

Chance consistently excels in providing exceptional customer service. He communicates effectively with the public, contractors, and internal team members, making sure that all stakeholders are well-informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle. His proactive approach and thorough follow-up ensure that customer expectations are met, fostering trust and transparency within the community regarding TDOT’s work in Rutherford County.

Chance’s educational background has been instrumental in his career development, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for his role in transportation. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in community activities, which further reflect his dedication to service and collaboration. Whether at work or in his personal life, Chance’s commitment to excellence and his strong connections with others make him a valued member of both TDOT and his community.

Kenny Browm

Veteran Service Officer
Veterans Services

Kenny Brown joined the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services in 2021 and currently serves as a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). In this role, he is dedicated to assisting veterans and their families in accessing the benefits and resources they have earned through their service. Since coming on board, Kenny has shown a strong dedication to advocating for and supporting the veteran community across Tennessee.

Kenny brings a wealth of experience to his position, having served twenty-four years in the Tennessee Army National Guard and fifteen years in law enforcement. His combined military and law enforcement background has proven to be an asset when gathering, reviewing, and submitting documentation to support claims with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. His disciplined approach and attention to detail have consistently helped veterans navigate complex systems with confidence.

Kenny is not only a dedicated Veterans Service Officer but also a person deeply committed to serving his community and uplifting those around him. He is an advocate for teamwork and is passionate about making a difference in the lives of those who have served. His favorite part of being a VSO is the opportunity to work directly with veterans and their families, helping them access the benefits they deserve and connecting them with critical resources.