UNION — When Sheriff David Taylor took office in 2009, he introduced end-of-the-year awards to recognize employees who have exemplified service beyond the call of duty and excelled in their respective roles.
“We’re fortunate that we’ve got good people and they need to be recognized for their accomplishments,” Taylor said.
Taylor said the awards are based on attendance, attitude and service, and individuals are decided upon by administrative staff and their immediate supervisors.
Dispatcher of the Year: Nikia Brannon
The Dispatcher of the Year award was presented to Nikia Brannon, who began working with the department in October 2002. Brannon is a team leader, and Taylor said she is very proficient in her job.
“She takes it very seriously, and as a dispatcher, you have to take it seriously,” Taylor said. “One mistake can cost someone their life.”
Brannon said she was not sure if this would be a long-term position when she started 10 years ago, but after a short while, she was hooked.
“I knew immediately this was something I wanted to do,” Brannon said. “I enjoy my job tremendously. It’s different from day to day — never monotonous.”
Taylor also commented that Brannon’s disposition is always pleasant.
“You never know if she’s having a good day or a bad day because she doesn’t wear it on her sleeve,” Taylor said.
Brannon says there is a key to that.
“I try not to sweat the small stuff,” she said. “At the end of the day, I remember that it’s a job and it has to be done. No matter how many calls we get or how many times people call, they are still calling because they need help.”
Staff Writer Derik Vanderford can be reached at 864-427-1234, ext. 29, or by email at dvanderford@heartlandpublications.com.
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