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Maxine Smith Customer Service Award 2016

May 10, 2016
    
Maxine Smith, a veteran New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) employee who serves as lead supervisor in the agency's Communications Unit, was selected as a recipient of the 2015 Excellence in Customer Service Award. Ms. Smith (pictured, center) received her award at a special ceremony hosted by the New York City Mayor's Office of Operations on May 10, 2016.

Recipients of the prestigious award are chosen on the basis of their outstanding customer service traits, with an emphasis on the criteria of courtesy, professionalism, knowledge, promptness, and timeliness. Ms. Smith has been with OCME since September 7, 1993, and throughout her tenure has exhibited superior professionalism and focus on the goal of OCME: to provide answers in support of families who have suffered a terrible loss.

“The skill Ms. Smith exhibits in her interactions with both the public and her colleagues and staff are a shining example of our Agency’s core values of dedication, integrity and putting the Agency’s needs first,” said New York City Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Barbara Sampson.

Ms. Smith is widely recognized at OCME for her exceptional patience and understanding with both her coworkers and families. As a supervisor in the Communications Unit, she leads employees who play an essential frontline role in answering and routing calls 24/7 from the general public, hospitals, and first responders reporting from scenes.

Deputy Director of Forensic Operations Elissia Conlon, who oversees the Communications Unit, wrote in Ms. Smith's award nomination letter that, “At every turn, Maxine takes the time to really listen to what is being asked and explain the policy and share guidance to assist the caller. She also exhibits great integrity in her follow through. If Maxine says she is going to do something, it’s going to get done.”

More than 150 guests attended the 2015 Excellence in Customer Service Awards Ceremony held at the Surrogate's Court building on May 10, 2016. Some 34 individual honorees and 18 special honorees were recognized. The event was hosted by Mindy Tarlow, Director of the Mayor's Office of Operations, and honorees were addressed by First Deputy Mayor Anthony Shorris, Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Richard Buery, and Department of Citywide Administrative Services Commissioner Lisette Camilo. Ms. Smith was accompanied to the ceremony by Dr. Sampson (pictured, left) and Ms. Conlon (pictured, right).

“It was an honor to receive this award, and I accept it on behalf of all OCME employees,” said Ms. Smith. “Customer service is part of what we do here every day to serve the public. We are here to assist.”