Service to America Medals The Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals® is the preeminent awards program for career federal employees. Visit servicetoamericamedals.org The awards seek to increase public awareness of government’s important work, inspire young people to consider careers in public service, and improve recognition and morale within federal agencies by lifting up examples of extraordinary leadership. The Service to America Medals, or Sammies, are a highly respected honor whose recipients are chosen through a rigorous selection process led by a panel of leaders in academia, business, philanthropy, government, media and entertainment. Named for the Partnership for Public Service’s late founder, Samuel J. Heyman, who was inspired by President Kennedy’s call to serve, these awards recognize federal employees who defend the homeland, protect the environment, explore the universe, ensure public safety, make scientific and medical discoveries, respond to natural disasters and more. Samuel J. Heyman believed that “the future of our nation quite simply depends on the quality of our government.” Recognizing honorees in several medal categories—from Emerging Leaders to the Federal Employee of the Year—the Sammies are the Partnership’s way of spotlighting the many ways our federal government is helping to keep the nation healthy, safe and prosperous. Impact More than 750 federal employees honored since 2001. Recognized employees working in more than 220 agencies, subcomponents and offices since 2001. Featured remarks from Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, along with dozens of notable celebrities and senior government leaders. Television specials aired on Bloomberg TV in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Twitter trending topic in Washington, D.C., during 2020 and 2021 announcements. Media coverage about the Sammies appeared in publications that reach nearly 200 million people More than 200,000 viewers of our virtual Sammies program in 2020, 2021 and 2022 combined. “These awards aren’t just the ‘Oscars’ of public service, they’re a reminder that public service is noble and an impactful profession.” President Joe Biden on the 2021 Sammies “We honor and give thanks to those who devote their unique talents and abilities to making our country safer, stronger and more effective. …I congratulate this year’s medal recipients and send … best wishes for continued success.” President Donald Trump on the 2018 Sammies honorees “This year’s Sammies recipients and finalists reflect the very best of our country’s commitment to public service. Their accomplishments will help our nation better meet the challenges of our time.” President Barack Obama, on the 2014 Sammies honorees “I commend the Partnership for Public Service, the Service to America Medal® recipients and all those who are committed to excellence in the federal workforce. Your efforts highlight the importance of public service and help build a better future for our country.” President George Bush, on the 2007 Sammies “The Partnership helps to mitigate the negative image that many people have about public servants and awaken folks to the breadth and depth of the work of federal employees.” Carolyn Hightower, deputy director, Administration for Children and Families, 2023 Service to America Medals® finalist. Read more about the impact of Sammies Resources Read About Our Past Honorees Learn more Sammies Selection Process Learn more Nomination Frequently Asked Questions Learn more How to Write a Winning Sammies Nomination Learn more
