2001
Department of Health and Community Services (St. John’s)

Joan Dawe has served the public for more than 30 years, consistently demonstrating exceptional work performance in every department and project she has been involved in. A tireless and diligent worker, she was instrumental in a host of initiatives, including the Child Welfare Act review, the new Nurse Practitioner Act and reorganization of the province’s health-related and community services structures. She was a key player in the development of the Strategic Social Plan and chaired the Freedom of Information Review Committee.

Joan is an exemplary leader, bringing creativity, vision and the highest possible standards to her projects. She draws out the very best in those she works with and those she serves, by valuing them first as individuals, interacting respectfully, calmly and consistently with people from every walk of life. Through times of change and challenge, Joan provides a model for all members of the public service.

She is a true reminder of the power of one person to make a difference. While she would be the first to say that credit for the Strategic Social Plan, or reorganization of the Department of Health and Community Services, or any other project she has been involved with, does not lie with her, it is clear that with highly dedicated individuals like Joan Dawe in our public service, the chances of success in any endeavor are much greater.