DENVER - Ken Hall, Defense Contract Management Agency Lockheed Martin Denver deputy director, was recently awarded the 2012 Blacks in Government Meritorious Service Award for displaying exceptional character and distinguishing himself as an outstanding leader.
Air Force Col. Gordon C. Griffin, DCMA LMD commander, said Hall was nominated for “his extraordinary efforts in promoting the tenets of civil and human rights, equal opportunity and human relations while serving as the office’s deputy.”
The BIG Meritorious Service Award honors military members and Department of Defense civilian employees who have supported the DOD mission, overseas contingency operations, or whose attributes best epitomized the qualities and core values of their military service or other DOD component.
“Receiving this award is affirmation that efforts to support the agency’s (Equal Employment Opportunity) initiatives are recognized and appreciated,” said Hall, who began his federal government service with the Navy in 1973. “While I’m pleased to be the recipient of this award, it gives me more satisfaction to see the principles embodied in the agency’s vision are well-rooted.”
According to his award narrative, Hall displayed exceptional character, distinguished him as an outstanding leader and mentor, and promoted the development of agency personnel. He took a proactive role by engaging fellow field office deputy directors in sharing best practices, challenging barriers and working to foster a fair and inclusive culture.
Griffin said through Hall’s leadership, “DCMA LMD established itself as the leader within the agency for the full integration and promotion of personnel of all races and genders within the civilian workforce.”
Hall also vastly contributed to agency efforts to ensure everyone is treated equally and fairly when they work for DCMA, according to Griffin. “He demonstrated this through his involvement in senior-position hiring boards with the highest levels of the agency, as well as his extensive involvement in developing a world class Keystone program.”
The advice Hall gives to women and minority employees aspiring to leadership positions is simple: “Education and training, coupled with exceptional performance, are key in achieving positions of leadership. Additionally, always do the right thing, even when you think no one is looking."