COLORADO SPRINGS — During the annual Colorado Emergency Management Conference held at the Hotel Elegante in Colorado Springs February 27th through March 1st the Colorado Emergency Management Association (CEMA) and the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) recognized outstanding professionals in the Emergency Management field. Costilla County Emergency Manager Christopher Rodriguez was awarded the San Luis Valley Emergency Manager of the Year Award for 2017.  Rodriguez’ was surrounded by his bride Tammy Rodriguez, son James Rodriguez and mother Yvonne Sanchez who arrived to surprise and support Chris as he accepted this distinguished award. 

Rodriguez is a shining example of an employee who rides for the brand immersing himself in projects and commitments that not only complements local government who employs him, but the communities he serves and his emergency management team.  Rodriguez is a steadfast, dedicated, forward leaning emergency manager who prioritizes the safety of his citizens and First Responders through professional planning, training, exercising and response. Rodriguez is that genuine and caring leader others rely on for guidance and direction when the bell rings.  He is credited with the successful response and management to the January 2017 Costilla County Snow Emergency the community experienced last year. Rodriguez answered the call ensuring services were still provided while the citizens were safely protected. 

Not only is Rodriguez an outstanding Emergency Manager, EMS Director and Land Use Department Head, he is a team player who co-chairs the SLV Healthcare Coalition and is an active member in the newly organized SLV Regional VOAD (Volunteers Active in Disaster) and SLV Regional EOC Committee. He is a CEMA member in good standing attending and successfully graduating from the Colorado Emergency Management Academy in 2016. Rodriguez believes in doing the next right thing and supports a great team of SLV Emergency Managers.  Thank you for a job well done!

Special Thanks to Costilla County Deputy Emergency Manager Jason Medina and Costilla County Administrator Ben Doon for making this event the wonderful event it was. 

Caption: Costilla County Emergency Manager Christopher Rodriguez was awarded the San Luis Valley Emergency Manager of the Year Award for 2017. Rodriguez, center, was surprised at the awards ceremony by from left, his wife Tammy, son James and mother Yvonne./Courtesy photo