LANSING. Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Colonel Peter C. Munoz is pleased to announce that Darlene Smith of the Project Office is the 2006 recipient of the Floyd R. Bell Jr. Civilian of the Year Award. She was presented the award at a special ceremony today in Lansing.

Smith, a 20-year MSP employee, was chosen for the award as a result of her accomplishments both on and off the job and for her efforts to continue the department's proud tradition of SERVICE through EXCELLENCE, INTEGRITY and COURTESY.

Smith serves as a manager in the Project Office. She is responsible for assisting MSP personnel with technology related projects to ensure they are on schedule, within budget and within the defined scope. Smith also oversees new technology efforts, maintains existing projects and develops new, cost effective ways to conduct business.

Through Smith's leadership, she helps project teams achieve their goals in the most effective and timely manner. She has been particularly successful at saving the MSP money by identifying ways divisions can share resources and training initiatives.

On her own time, Smith regularly volunteers in her church's annual rummage sale by organizing donations, picking up items from other organizations and serving as the cashier. She also helps raise money for church activities by working concession stands at sporting events. In addition, Smith volunteers weekly at her local VWF (Veterans of Foreign Wars), assisting them with cleaning, renovation projects and food preparation for veterans and their families.

A native of Haslett, Smith currently resides in Perry and has two children, Christopher and Joel. She received a bachelor's degree in business from Davenport University. Smith, a 22-year state employee, worked at the Attorney General's Office and Michigan Legislature prior to joining the MSP.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
William Badgero, Budget and Financial Services Division, (517) 336-6223
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