The award categories and recipients were:
Teamwork & Collaboration Award -- presented to the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection IT staff, a team that works across boundaries effectively and produces timely, quality work -- despite any barriers.
The Great Communicator Award -- Ron Ralph, CIO, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, for the ability to communicate with IT and non-IT alike and effectively building alliances.
Customer & Constituent Service Award -- Ann Barsotti, CIO, California Department of Motor Vehicles, for an approach that is flexible, nimble and understanding of business objectives while responding to budget pressures and public needs.
Leadership Award -- Jim Watkins, CIO, Governor's Office of Emergency Services, for forward thinking, garnering support from stakeholders and fostering pride in public service.
Rising Star Award -- Tim Garza, Chief, Enterprise Modeling and Management Division, California Public Employees' Retirement System, as a prospective CIO who demonstrates many of the qualities of the previous award categories and shows promise as a leader.
In addition, two special recognition awards were presented:
The Founders Award -- presented to Andrew Armani, Agency Information Officer of the California State and Consumer Services Agency, for his commitment and ingenuity in bringing the CIO Academy from dream to reality.
Distinguished Achievement Award -- presented to J. Clark Kelso, California State CIO, for creating a legacy of technology leadership in California.
The California Public Sector CIO Academy was produced by Government Technology Conference, the nation's leading and most respected technology event for state and local government.
