Franklin County Honors Dedicated Employees for Service and Heroism

Franklin County Commissioners have recognized several employees for their exceptional dedication and service throughout 2025. The annual awards celebrate individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to the county’s values and the residents they serve, highlighting achievements in stewardship, engagement, responsiveness, visibility, integrity, continuous improvement, and employee support. Additionally, the county has honored a Community Hero and an Employee of the Year, acknowledging exceptional actions that directly benefit the Franklin County community.

The SERVICE Value Awards are presented to employees whose performance aligns with one of the county’s seven core values, as identified by their colleagues and selected by division leaders. Daphne Blair, accounting information systems manager in the fiscal department, received the Stewardship award for her prudent management of resources and long-term planning. Melodie Hoff, director of grants management/Criminal Justice Advisory Board, was recognized for Engagement, demonstrating a commitment to incorporating diverse community needs and perspectives into programs.

Ashley McCullough, aging care manager supervisor II at the Franklin County Area Agency on Aging, earned the Responsiveness award for her timely fulfillment of commitments. Victoria Ballantine, senior center director, also with the Area Agency on Aging, was honored with the Visibility award for her transparent and respectful exchange of information. Jim Gilbert, mental health program specialist, received the Integrity award for his adherence to moral, legal, and ethical principles. Makenzie Nehf, E911 training and QA coordinator for the Department of Emergency Services, was awarded for Continuous Improvement, for her efforts in refining processes and services. Giana Johnson, a Caseworker I – Ongoing with children and youth services, received the Employees award, celebrating her contributions and potential.

This year’s Community Hero Award was presented to Mason DeShong, a correctional officer at the Franklin County Jail. DeShong’s swift and decisive actions in addressing a significant security risk within the jail are credited with enhancing the safety of both fellow officers and inmates. His vigilance and responsibility were noted as exemplary.

The prestigious Employee of the Year award was bestowed upon Giana Johnson, a caseworker with the county’s children and youth services department. Johnson was selected from the 12 monthly Employee of the Month honorees. She had previously been recognized as the August Employee of the Month for her quick thinking and attention to detail in managing an emergency situation involving a client, ensuring the safety of all potentially affected parties.

In addition to these top honors, the county also recognized its Employees of the Month for 2025. These individuals include Heather Franzoni (January), Michael Deckert (February), Theresa Anthony (March), Amelia Miller (April), Veronica Brestensky (May), Gayle Schreiber (June), Tammy Zook (July), Giana Johnson (August), Bryan Chappell (September), Haleigh Dunkle (October), Janelle Friese (November), and Stacey Parson (December). The Commissioners extended their appreciation to all recipients for their dedication to serving the residents of Franklin County.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Franklin County Commissioners

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