For Immediate Release
STAR Transit announces Employee and Driver of the Year
(Terrell, TX) – Nine individuals were recently honored during STAR Transit’s Quarterly Driver Safety Meetings. Vickie Dabney was announced as the 2021 Employee of the Year, and Gabriela Rodriguez received the 2021 Driver of Year award.
Nominees for Driver of the Year included Rodriguez along with James Janicek, Alice Manning and Saundra Bates.
Ms. Rodriguez has been with the agency almost three years and drives all of STAR Transit’s service area. Antonio Harris, Transportation Director, said, “Gabi is team player and not afraid to take on new challenges. She cares for each of our riders as if they are family. We are very proud of her and the work she does”.
As the recipient of Driver of the Year, Gabi received $1,000.
Nominees for Employee of the Year included Dabney, Shelby Ward and Nicole Blanton.
Vickie has been with the agency nine years and serves as the Dispatch Supervisor, managing the dispatch team and trip scheduling. Tommy Henricks, Executive Director, said, “Being a dispatcher and scheduler is no easy task. It’s challenging, fast-paced and can be stressful. Vickie handles each day with skill and tact. We are so lucky to have her and appreciate her hard work. Congratulations Vickie!”
As the recipient of Employee of the Year, Vickie received $500 and two paid days off.
STAR Transit launched the Employee of the Year and Driver of the Year initiative in September of 2015.
In addition to Driver of the Year and Employee of the Year, the following employees also received recognition. Outstanding Customer Service – Keith Ford and Nicole Blanton; Humanitarian Award – James Janicek; Outstanding Service – Alice Manning; Extra Mile Award – Mark Frazier; Admin Rookie of the Year – Ella Talavera, and Driver Rookie of the Year – Valero DeLaCruz.
“These programs recognize many of the outstanding employees we have on our team. Congratulations to all of our recipients!” said Henricks.
About STAR Transit. Founded in 1988, STAR Transit is the fourth largest transit agency in the North Central Texas region—and the largest not funded by sales tax. Revenues are derived from federal and state grants as well as local partnerships with cities, counties and businesses. STAR Transit provides safe, affordable and convenient transportation to the general public, seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities for access to jobs, healthcare, personal services, retail, and entertainment, etc. More than 100 employees are responsible for providing over 135,000 rides annually. The agency is headquartered in Terrell, TX. For more information, visit STARtransit.org.