FLINT, Mich. – Joan Sneller, Director of Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) at Hurley Medical Center for Child Welfare was presented with the ESGR Patriot Award Feb. 26.

Joan was nominated by Master Sgt. Matthew A. Florida of the Army National Guard who is currently on deployment. Presenting the award in his absence is Kim LeFear, Genesee County Director for Child Welfare.

Florida stated, "Throughout the years she has been nothing but steadfast in her support of me. She has always been there and has reached out to ensure I was doing well and to see if there was anything she could do to support. I have had a 21-year career in the Army and Joan has been probably one of my greatest supports next to my parents. She has been a great mentor and friend. I wanted to have her recognized for that."

During this event Joan also signed the ESGR Statement of Support (SoS); showing the commitment that herself and MDHHS at Hurley Medical Center for Child Welfare have for our Service Members, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:

• We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
• We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring tto the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
• We will continually recognize and support our country's service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

Thank you, Joan, for being an outstanding supporter of our Service Members.

Representing ESGR at this event was MI ESGR East Area Chair Paul DeSander.