Department Recognizes Outstanding Employees of the Quarter

ANNAPOLIS, MD (May 17, 2018) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture honored four employees on Thursday for their exceptional service and dedication to the department’s mission and goals. Susie Kozlovsky Husk (State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners), Matthew Malinowski (State Chemist), Shawn Burgess (Program Planning – Resource Conservation), and Barbara Kunie (Animal Health) were all nominated by their supervisors for going above and beyond the expectations of their positions.

Secretary Joe Bartenfelder and Deputy Secretary Julie Oberg presented the awards during the department’s general staff meeting. More on each awardee below:

Susie Kozlovsky Husk – Employee of the Quarter Leadership Awardee

Leadership Award: Susie Kozlovsky Husk – State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, Investigator

Susie Kozlovsky Husk serves as the lead investigator for the department’s State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners and is responsible for investigating all consumer complaints against veterinarians and veterinary hospitals. She is receiving the Employee of the Quarter Leadership Award for her work ethic, fierce dedication, and willingness to train new employees. During a time of transition for the Board, Susie has gone out of her way to ensure employees are up to speed on the Board’s processes, how regulations are enforced, how veterinary practices and procedures are handled, and how past experiences can inform future decision making. Often pulling long hours, Susie is being recognized for her great efforts over the years.

Matthew Malinowski – Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Awardee

Customer Service Award: Matthew Malinowski – State Chemist Section, Chemist

Matthew Malinowski serves as a chemist for the department’s State Chemist office. He is receiving the Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Award for his notable contributions to the department’s internal and external relations. His expertise in lab skills and instruments along with his commitment to quality and efficiency make him a highly valued member of the State Chemist staff. Going beyond his job role, Matthew also volunteers and takes initiative to help with internship recruitment, state fair activities, and other housekeeping items.

Shawn Burgess – Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Awardee

Customer Service Award: Shawn Burgess – Program Planning – Resource Conservation, Administrative Specialist

Shawn Burgess serves as an administrative specialist for Program Planning – Resource Conservation. She is receiving the Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Award for her incredible willingness to assist any coworker and for her extremely positive attitude when interacting with the public. From troubleshooting problems to assisting staff with the new phone system, no problem is too big or small for Shawn. Working tirelessly to improve the efficiency of program activities and procedures, Shawn has made a huge impact on the program and the department.

Barbara Kunie – Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Awardee

Customer Service Award: Barbara Kunie – Animal Health Program, Ag Inspector Advanced

Barbara Kunie serves as an ag inspector for the department’s Animal Health program. She is receiving the Employee of the Quarter Customer Service Award for going above and beyond in her role to help the program quickly control and prevent further spread of avian influenza. Her relentless efforts helped to contain a reported case of avian influenza A virus this past February. Barbara’s high level of productivity and excellent work ethic has greatly advanced the important mission of the Animal Health program.

Photos of the award presentations are available via Flickr.

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