Nashville Department of Emergency Communications Announces 2024 Personnel of the Year

The Nashville Department of Emergency Communications (DEC) has recognized four exceptional individuals for their contributions in 2024. The following personnel have received the prestigious "Personnel of the Year" awards:

• Emergency Telecommunicator of the Year: Candace Rufus
• Communications Training Officer of the Year: Sonia Strain
• Supervisor of the Year: Kimberly Manier
• Administrative Team Member of the Year: Leah Quarles

These awards honor their dedication to service, leadership, and teamwork within the DEC.

Candace Rufus, Emergency Telecommunicator of the Year, is a 3-year veteran and Communications Training Officer (CTO). She is recognized for her quick decision-making, compassion for callers, field responders, and peers, and professionalism. Rufus has received 12 life-saving commendations as a 911 call taker and dispatcher.

Sonia Strain, Communications Training Officer of the Year, is a 5-year veteran and Interim Supervisor in the Operations Division. Strain is noted for her leadership in training new recruits, maintaining perfect attendance, and serving as an Interim Communications Supervisor. Interim Supervisor Strain’s mentorship and dedication to the team are invaluable to the department.

Kimberly Manier, Supervisor of the Year, was selected for her exceptional leadership in managing high-volume calls while maintaining team morale. With 20 years of experience at the DEC, she also serves as a member of the Nashville Telecommunicator Emergency Response Team (NTERT) and as a Communications Leader.

Leah Quarles, Administrative Team Member of the Year, is recognized for excellent leadership while serving in her role as an Operations Division Manager. Quarles is a 24-year veteran of the DEC and plays a key role in assisting first-line leadership and ensuring the smooth operation of the department.

The DEC celebrates these individuals for their outstanding contributions.

The awards were presented at the annual Nashville Department of Emergency Communications ceremony.