San Bernardino County recognized more than 50 employees for their outstanding service during the 2026 Public Service Recognition Award for Excellence ceremony, held April 29 at the San Bernardino County Museum. The annual event brought together county leadership, employees and their families to celebrate the dedication and impact of public servants who demonstrate exceptional commitment in service to the county’s 2.2 million residents.
Observed nationwide each year, Public Service Recognition Week highlights the vital contributions of government employees. In San Bernardino County, the program provides an opportunity to recognize individuals whose often behind-the-scenes efforts strengthen communities and improve quality of life across the region.
This year’s ceremony honored employees across five categories—Commitment to Community, Excellence in Every Engagement, Leaders in Action, Partners in Collaboration and Quality and Innovation—reflecting the wide range of services that keep the county operating and advancing. From public safety and infrastructure to health services and community development, awardees represent the breadth and depth of the county workforce.
Opening the ceremony, Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe emphasized the meaning behind public service, noting that it extends far beyond routine responsibilities.
“Public service is a call to action that not all answer,” Rowe said. “It means showing up on days that are tough… doing what is right because it makes someone else’s life a little bit better.”
That same spirit of dedication is reflected in the day-to-day work of county employees, who often serve on the front lines of complex and emotional situations. Board of Supervisors Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. highlighted the compassion and perseverance required to meet those challenges.
“You’re on the front lines with a lot of our constituents on a day-to-day basis,” Baca said. “Because you’re recognized today, that means someone thought highly of you… you went above and beyond the call of duty.”
The county’s continued success, leaders noted, is driven by the people who carry out this work every day. Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman underscored the role employees play in shaping the County’s reputation and impact.
“What makes our county special are the people,” Hagman said. “It’s the people helping people in our county that does it every time.”
CEO Luther Snoke reinforced the values that define the county workforce, encouraging employees to embrace the purpose behind their work and the impact they make.
“A ship in the harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for,” Snoke said. “You represent action, courage, bravery… answering the call of service.”
Throughout the ceremony, awardees were recognized for work that directly impacts residents’ lives—whether strengthening workforce pathways, improving access to critical services, protecting public health and safety or fostering innovation across departments. Many were selected through peer nominations, underscoring the respect and admiration they have earned from colleagues.
Beyond the awards, the event highlighted the culture that drives county service: collaboration across departments, a commitment to excellence and a shared mission of serving residents with integrity and compassion. Leaders also acknowledged the important role families play in supporting public servants, whose work often extends beyond traditional hours to meet the community’s needs.
San Bernardino County employs more than 24,000 individuals who provide essential services around the clock. The Public Service Award for Excellence ceremony serves as a reminder that behind every program, service and initiative are dedicated professionals working to make a difference.
As the county continues to grow and evolve, its employees remain the foundation of its success, demonstrating every day what it means to be public servants.
The recognition of these outstanding employees helps to further the goal of achieving the Countywide Vision by promoting a skilled dedicated workforce committed to delivering exceptional public service, strengthening communities and improving quality of life for all residents.
To learn more, view the full list of honorees and read their biographies.
Additional County Update News – May 7, 2026
- Board Actions, May 5
- County’s 2026-27 budget workshop balances strategic investments with economic uncertainty
- Real stories, real hope: Explore San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Services
- Rep. Aguilar partners with county to support Bloomington Animal Care Center
- Bloomington celebrates unveiling of new statues at Kessler Park
- Mojave Narrows Regional Park new equestrian facility draws excitement from horse community
- Love was strong with the Force: San Bernardino County’s Star Wars-themed wedding event is a galactic success
- Taking the guesswork out of voting: Voter Education Roadshow travels across the county
- ARMC holds free 5K walk/run to promote better health
- Career Spotlight: Explore county careers with SBC LevelUP
- Did You Know: The origin of McDonald’s in San Bernardino
- SBC Through Your Eyes: North Etiwanda Preserve
- Submit your photos and videos of the county’s destinations, nature and cityscapes
- San Bernardino County history: Big Bear Solar Observatory
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week: Lacy