HCA staff earn annual Department of State honors
Two staff members from the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs (HCA) were recognized for their service among Department of State colleagues in 2023, including Desiree May’s nomination as the department’s employee of the year.
May, HCA’s social media lead, was initially recognized as the Department of State’s Employee of the Third Quarter 2023 “as a great example of determination and professional excellence, a fantastic team member and a huge asset to the division.” It was recently announced that her hard work — especially the dedication and in-depth effort she contributed as HCA’s State Employees’ Charitable Campaign coordinator — was worthy of the Employee of the Year 2023 designation, as well.
“Desiree has a contagious smile that brightens your day and is a dependable, reliable, honest, warm-hearted person,” said her nominating colleagues. “She always provides a positive solution when difficulties arise and continues to be a driving force within the division.”
May joined HCA in 2014 starting as the site manager of Buena Vista Conference Center. In 2018, she became the division’s social media lead.
Division colleague George Pardee, a conservation technician, also earned a quarterly recognition as Employee of the Fourth Quarter 2023 “for his commitment, dedication and leadership.” Pardee works out of Bellmont Hall in Smyrna, and while he contributes to the care of the grounds for all of HCA’s properties, his work focuses primarily on Woodburn. He has been with HCA since 2016.
While landscaping, groundskeeping and gardening are a big part of his work responsibilities, he also shines while preparing sites for events and holidays, which this year included a safe, fun and well-decorated Trick-or-Treating event at the Governor’s Mansion and Christmas at Woodburn, including the logistics of lighting and installing an 18-foot tree.
To learn more about working for HCA, visit the division’s employment page (and check out any current openings!) at history.delaware.gov/about-agency/employment.