2025 Recognition Awards
Every year at our Parks' Leadership Conference, Ranger in Service, and Interpreters' Conference, staff gather to share information and brainstorm new ideas. It is also a time when staff are recognized for their years of service and those who go above and beyond in their field. We are excited to announce this year's awards recipients.
Ranger of the Year
Lakes Region
Lower Coast Region
Upper Coast Region
Mountain Region
Sandhills Region
Interpreter of the Year
Director's Award
Customer Service Awards
Sandhills Region
Lower Coast Region
Upper Coast Region
Mountain Region
Lakes Region
Central Office
Robert J. Papenfus Award
The Robert J. Papenfus Award is awarded to the park, person, or team who has demonstrated excellence in the Management of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Service Recognition
Five Years
Arthur Murray
Matthew Coleman
Alexander Kellner
Thomas Blair
Robert Lambert
Paul Bourne
Robin Fulton
Thomas Watson
Brenden Franklin
Amanda Rogers
James Studdard
Wayne Sanders
Samuel Worley
Andrew Spencer
Russ Zahler
Dylan Alexander
Nathaniel Shull
Stacy Scherman
10 Years
Austin Mitchum
Jay Reese
Mark Owens
Kathryn Gompers
Dawn Weaver
Michael Watkins
Michael Reid
James Revis
15 Years
Lydia Kowalski
Timothy Ritter
20 Years
Zabo McCants
Jayson Sellers
Laura Kirk
Antonia Rivers
Daniel Neary
Jonathan Greider
Amanda Jenkins
25 Years
John Moon
Jeff Hofmann
Brent Stevens
Kevin Blanton
Rob Powell
Al Hester
Jerry Ives
30 Years
Ann Wilson
35 Years
Scott Stegenga