2025 Director's Management and Administration Awards

Honoring Excellence in Management and Administration

The dedicated work of National Park Service employees in management, administration, Information Technology (IT), and Information Management continues to be a cornerstone of the agency’s success.

The 2025 Director’s Management and Administration Awards celebrate outstanding contributions that advance these essential functions. These awards recognize individuals and teams whose efforts exemplify innovation, service, and impact across the NPS.

The Excellence Awards specifically honor those who go beyond their day-to-day responsibilities—solving problems, seizing opportunities, and driving progress through creative thinking and action.

This year’s awards highlight achievements from 2024, showcasing the continued commitment and ingenuity of our workforce.

Exceptional IT Service Award

The Exceptional IT Service Award recognizes individuals or teams who demonstrate exemplary performance, innovative thinking, and unwavering dedication in the delivery of information technology (IT) services. This award highlights a specific, standout achievement that meaningfully advances the IT environment and enhances the way the National Park Service operates. This award is given annually to one individual or team for their exceptional accomplishments.

Ben Splittstoser led innovative IT solutions at the National Information Technology Center, streamlining operations and enhancing security during major cloud migration efforts.

Ben Splittstoser

Ben Splittstoser's significant contributions to the National Information Technology Center (NITC)—particularly during cloud adoption and migration projects—demonstrate his exceptional expertise and commitment to the IT field. His deep understanding of these systems ensured a smooth transition, minimized disruptions, and maintained operational continuity. Ben also enhanced security procedures by improving identity and access management protocols. His innovative use of PowerShell to automate tasks streamlined IT processes, saving countless hours of manual work. As an exemplary team player, Ben shares his knowledge freely, fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Advancement of IT and Information Management Award

The Advancement of IT and Information Management Award honors outstanding service that significantly advances IT or information management within the National Park Service over an extended period. This award is presented annually to one individual or team in recognition of sustained excellence and impact.

Tim Gilk atop a 300-foot tower at Big Thicket National Preserve. Tim's work advancing regional connectivity and communications infrastructure has significantly improved operational efficiency across IMR parks.

Tim Gilk

Tim Gilk has significantly enhanced connectivity for parks, earning numerous commendations from leadership and management. He has been instrumental in increasing internet bandwidth and improving radio communications across the region by successfully completing several microwave and cellular design projects, using state-of-the-art radio coverage analysis software to plan integrated communication improvements, and deploying new systems to strengthen communication networks. His dedication, innovative solutions, and exceptional customer service have greatly improved operational efficiency in the Intermountain Region (IMR) parks.

Excellence in Customer Service Award

The Excellence in Customer Service Award honors individuals and teams who demonstrate exceptional commitment to serving internal National Park Service customers.

This award recognizes those who consistently go above and beyond—resolving issues with care, anticipating needs, and building strong, positive relationships across the organization. Their dedication to service excellence strengthens collaboration and supports the success of the NPS mission.

Individual — Excellence in Customer Service Award

The Excellence in Customer Service Award honors individuals who consistently deliver exceptional service and exceed customer expectations. It celebrates outstanding communication, problem-solving, and responsiveness, all of which contribute to a positive customer experience.

Natalie Craig

Natalie Craig provides invaluable support to her colleagues at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts by facilitating HR processes for a park that more than triples in size during the summer months. She offers clear, concise guidance and support through consistent follow-up, approaching every situation with kindness and empathy. Colleagues praise her responsiveness, professionalism, and thoroughness—making Natalie a standout recipient of the Excellence in Customer Service Award.

Team — Excellence in Customer Service Award

The Excellence in Customer Service Award honors teams who consistently deliver exceptional service, exceeding customer expectations. It celebrates outstanding communication, problem-solving, and responsiveness, ensuring a positive customer experience.

Human Resources Information System (HRIS) team

The Human Resources Information System (HRIS) team has transformed HR processes across the National Park Service by enhancing transparency, efficiency, and customer engagement. Through innovative programs such as the NPS HR Action Hub, NPS Hiring Pro, and NPS HR Connect, they have leveraged technology to streamline core HR functions and support colleagues throughout the bureau.

Their ability to understand organizational needs, develop creative solutions, and drive continuous improvement has earned them recognition across the agency. By ensuring a smooth and transparent experience for all stakeholders, the HRIS team exemplifies the spirit of the Excellence in Customer Service Award.

The team—Drew Swedberg, Angela Tallant, Kasey Glenn, Jenny Miller, and Notley Lewis—played a central role in these accomplishments and are recognized for their outstanding service.

Excellence in Business Management

The Excellence in Business Management Award honors outstanding achievement and exemplary leadership in business administration and management. It recognizes individuals or teams who demonstrate innovation, strategic vision, and exceptional operational execution—leading to measurable success and meaningful contributions.

Stephen Kasierski

Steve Kasierski has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing key relationships with lessees, commercial partners, and various agencies—ensuring long-term sustainability for Golden Gate National Recreation Area. His achievements include overseeing leases that accounted for over 10% of NPS leasing revenue in 2024, developing agreements with agencies such as National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Air Force, and leading major capital projects.

Notably, Steve played a pivotal role in executing a $24 million contract modification with Pacific Gas & Electric to implement a new electrical distribution system. This project benefits Park Headquarters, lessees, employees, and nonprofit partners alike. His foresight, leadership, and problem-solving abilities have significantly contributed to the park’s success and exemplify his commitment to excellence.

Advancement of Business Management Award

The Advancement of Business Management Award recognizes outstanding contributions to enhancing and streamlining organizational strategies, processes, and performance. It honors innovative leadership, effective decision-making, and adaptability in evolving business environments.

Allison Horner-Peters’ utility billing reforms at C&O Canal NHP save $80,000 annually—streamlining operations and inspiring process improvements across parks.

Allison Horner-Peters

Allison Horner-Peters systematically addressed complex utility billing issues at Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park by meticulously reviewing bills and visiting facilities to verify charges—resulting in ongoing annual cost savings of nearly $80,000. These efforts have enabled the park to support additional visitor services.

She also implemented a centralized process for utility reporting, easing the burden on field staff and improving the accuracy of utility tracking and documentation. Her work has been recognized by other parks seeking her expertise, making Allison an exemplary model of administrative process improvement within the National Park Service.

Excellence in Financial Management Award

The Excellence in Financial Management Award honors outstanding achievement and leadership in financial management. It recognizes individuals or teams who demonstrate impact, innovation, efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration—leading to measurable success and significant contributions.

Ashley Baggett receives the Excellence in Financial Management Award for her leadership in implementing G-Invoicing across NPS and DOI.

Ashley Baggett

Ashley Baggett played a critical leadership role within the National Park Service (NPS) and the Department of the Interior (DOI) in the implementation of G-Invoicing. Her strategic vision and leadership began several years ago when DOI initiated the G-Invoicing implementation project. She helped develop and execute the General Terms and Conditions strategy for both DOI and NPS, which included negotiating high-level terms with other federal agencies—saving significant time and effort for field staff.

Upon implementation, Ashley led the development and execution of a communication strategy for NPS staff. She leveraged DOI and NPS workgroups to build a community of experts and set clear expectations for how G-Invoicing would be used across the department. She also led a DOI Statutory Authority workgroup to define a process for reviewing existing authorities, establishing a standard set of authorities for the new system, and creating a framework for adding new authorities post-implementation.

Her leadership resulted in the development of key tools, job aids, and SharePoint resources to support and empower NPS staff. Ashley continues to provide critical support for the entry of G-Invoicing orders and the resolution of related errors.

Best Practices in Financial Transparency and Accountability Award

The Best Practices in Financial Transparency and Accountability Award honors exceptional leadership, integrity, and diligence in managing financial resources. It recognizes individuals who uphold the highest standards of accountability, compliance, and transparency—ensuring that financial operations are executed with accuracy, efficiency, and resilience.

Suzy Traut improves financial transparency at Wolf Trap NHP, streamlining fee collection and enhancing accountability through Pay.gov reforms.

Suzanne Traut

Suzy Traut has demonstrated exemplary performance in financial transparency and accountability at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts. She improved processes for collecting reimbursable and living history fees by implementing a more robust Pay.gov system, which facilitates faster billing, easier reconciliation, and enhanced reporting.

Suzy also identified misallocated permit fees, using her auditing skills to correct errors that had gone unnoticed by others. She ensures Wolf Trap remains compliant with new policies and regulations and is diligent about updating internal procedures. Her efforts have significantly strengthened financial practices and accountability.

Administration Leader of the Year

The Administration Leader of the Year Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing administrative services or processes.

Kelly Fox, recognized as Administration Leader of the Year, supports six NPS units with exceptional leadership, innovation, and mentorship.

Kelly Fox

Kelly Fox provides administrative services to five parks and IT services to a sixth, coordinating work across three superintendents and four states. She leverages technology and leadership skills to ensure clear communication, streamline processes, and provide easy access to essential resources across the full portfolio of administrative functions.

Kelly has been recognized as a supervisor who effectively supports and develops staff through mentoring and professional growth opportunities. She has helped team members take on new roles and responsibilities, exemplifying her commitment to the growth and excellence of the administrative profession. Her leadership is recognized regionally, and she is often sought out for problem-solving and committee roles.

For her role as an exceptional supervisor, mentor, manager, and administrative leader across six different NPS units, Kelly is a worthy recipient of this year’s Administration Leader of the Year Award.

Administration Team of the Year

The Administration Team of the Year Award recognizes National Park Service teams that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing administrative services and processes.

In 2024, the joint National Capital Region (NCR) and Northeast Region (NER) Administrative Planning Committee successfully organized the first comprehensive administrative training event for Northeast and National Capital Region staff in a decade. This field-driven workshop—designed by park administrative staff—addressed emerging topics and needs, engaging over 50 parks and various disciplines. The committee resolved logistical, technological, and site-related challenges to deliver an effective and impactful experience for participants across both regions.

The event featured technical sessions, future-focused panels with representatives from parks, regions, and WASO, and leadership development opportunities that fostered a broader perspective on administrative careers within the NPS. Its success led to a reinvigorated community of practice, the formation of an NER Administrative Advisory Council, and a valuable feedback loop with regional support staff and leadership.

For their contributions to administrative learning, collaboration, and leadership development across geographic and regional boundaries, the NCR/NER Administrative Planning Committee is awarded the Administration Team of the Year Award.

The NCR/NER Administrative Planning Committee includes George McHugh, Thomas Rogers, Kelly Fox, Shelly Stubblefield, Ben Helwig, Cecily Wood, Deanna Harrison, Kevin Langley, and Dominic Cardea.