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Employee Monthly Newsletter September 2024 |
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Message from Director Robinson
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Greetings #TeamDMV and Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! With just one quarter left until the new year, I can't thank you enough for all of your hard work and dedication to our agency and residents. We are truly Saving Lives Every Day! I hope you will find our September 2024 newsletter fun, engaging and informative.
Remember, this newsletter is for you and your feedback is always welcome.
A few announcements:
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✅ Child Passenger Safety Week, held September 15-21, 2024, brings heightened awareness to how parents and caregivers can keep children safe in vehicles. #DidYouKnow 🤔 in 2022, 39 percent of children killed in car crashes were unrestrained? It is important to make sure your child is in the right seat for their age and size – and that the seat is installed correctly.
✅ Your Mental Health Matters! I want to remind you that there are confidential resources available if you or someone you know needs help. You are not alone. Call 988 if you or someone else is experiencing a mental health, substance use or suicidal crisis. Call the District’s Mental Health Hotline 24/7 at 1-(888)-793-4357 to speak with a behavioral health professional and get help solving a problem or to learn more about resources available to you. Never be afraid to ask for help. 💚💚
✅ Here at #TeamDMV, we manage with an open-door policy. Do not hesitate to reach out to myself and any member of the DMV senior leadership team, for questions, clarifications or to address your work issues and concerns. For HR matters, we have a dedicated, seasoned HR team, who can provide you with necessary information. We welcome your questions, suggestions and feedback. This is how we grow and this is how we better serve you. We have various ways you can communicate with DMV senior leadership:
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In person/by phone: Please coordinate with our staff assistants to confirm availability for a conversation. Please note availability may not be immediate.
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By Teams/Email: We are always virtually connected and work diligently to respond to emails and Teams chats.
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Online Employee Suggestion Box: Address issues and make suggestions by submitting your feedback anonymously through the intranet. We have been able to make operational changes and implement agency initiatives, thanks to those suggestions.
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Employee Survey (coming in FY 2025): This will be a major opportunity for all employees to address areas of improvement in a detailed, anonymous, comprehensive format. Information captured from these surveys will guide DMV in a direction that better serves the agency.
With the variety of opportunities to get in touch with leadership, I expect that the lines of communication will stay open.
Thank you for your hard work and enjoy the rest of your September, #TeamDMV. 💖
-Gabriel
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In This Month's Newsletter |
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“A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go, but ought to be.”–Rosalynn Carter
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We Want to Hear from You! |
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Some of our best ideas have come from you, #TeamDMV! Our employee suggestion box was created to help listen to you as we continue improving our agency. Whenever you want to share your feedback, just submit your suggestion here. You can submit anonymously or include your name and it will go directly to Director Robinson. Your questions, comments, complaints and compliments are welcome!
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Have Some Exciting News to Share? |
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Have some exciting news to share with your colleagues? It can be a family recipe, birth announcement, vacation, sporting event, prom or graduation, etc.
Send your photos and a small write-up to Kellye.Underwood@dc.gov.
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Victoria McRae
Joining #TeamDMV as a Legal Instrument Examiner with #TeamSouthwest, Victoria has over 15 years of customer service experience. She's a dedicated team player, loves to shop, spend time with her family and relax during her leisure time. Victoria is most proud of becoming a LIE as she was hired on the spot during the May 2024 Spring Hiring Fair.
Welcome Victoria! 💖🙌
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Torey Robinson
Torey joins #TeamDMV from the DC Department of Public Works as a Motor Vehicle Inspector with our Inspection Station. A loyal person, Torey takes pride in maintaining order, being respectful and consistent. "I take pride in always being a hard worker that's on time," said Torrey. "I am a person that goes over and beyond to make sure anything I put hands on or my mind to is perfect."
Welcome to #TeamDMV, Torey! 😊💖
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Ashley Washington
Ashley joins #TeamDMV as a Motor Vehicle Inspector from the DC Department of Public Works. A strong woman, Ashley believes that you can overcome any challenge in life if you just stay the course and never give up. "I am a living testimony," said Ashley.
Ashley is extremely proud of herself for accomplishing goals that she's been working on for years, such as obtaining her cosmetology license and her CDL. "I'm also proud for not giving up and going hard and securing a government position."
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Congratulations on your accomplishments, Ashley!✂️🥼🛻 Welcome to #TeamDMV! 😊💖
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It Really Is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year |
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📚 It's Back to School Time!! 📚
Welcome back to a new school year, an opportunity to open doors - make friends, set goals and dream BIG. Whether it's the first day of pre-K or first day of college, this is really the most exciting time of the year. That means homework, before and after school activities, science fair projects, spelling bee competitions, football games, etc. 🏫📚🍎🐝🏈
Wishing everyone a happy and fantastic 2024-25 school year! 😍
Meet Vehicle Services Administrator Rakonda Cobb's grandbabies, Kayden Cobb (left, second grade) Zaria and Zaniya Lewis (right, first grade). ⬇️
Meet Lead Correspondence Management Specialist Michelle Small's granddaughter, Kalani Small, who started kindergarten. "She knows she is cute," said Michelle. ⬇️
Meet Correspondence Management Specialist Nikita Johnson's grandson, Adonya Johnson, who started kindergarten. "With his handsome self," said Nikita. ⬇️
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What's Happening at #TeamDMV |
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2024 Olympic Games Employee Milestone Program
On Thursday, August 29, #TeamDMV celebrated its employees who have been with the District Government anywhere from five to 35 years! This year's theme was The Olympic Games, where participants wore Olympic colors (yellow, red, green, blue and/or white).
Congratulations to everyone who was honored for your dedicated and outstanding years of service with the District Government. 💖🙌🎊
5 Years 10 Years 15 Years 20 Years
Tatiana Batie Monica Anderson Tierra Cates Raja Bandla
Terrence Butler Jacqueline Bempah Paula Coyoy Franklin Norris
Kelia Castro Aliya Berry Remigia Davis Amit Vora
Karmeisha Cooper David Best Chris Dina
Chenia Crews Darrell Bryant Kellye Underwood
Dominic Dickerson Godwin Clarke
Joelle Flythe Rakonda Cobb
Kyonna Hicks Keara Davis
Demetria Jackson Justin Day
Tracey Jackson Brandi Douglass
Brianna Nelson Regina Mathis
Haydee Rodriguez Sean Mills
Jacqueline Rutherford Erica Tann
Kirby Sanders Valerie Oxendine
Sierra Weaver Kia Whitaker
Shantrice Williams
25 Years 30 Years 35 Years
Victoria Allen Wanda Butler Yolanda Deloatch
Tyronica Best Beverly Keenon
Tonia Dansby Shirley Shephard
Mattie Hawkins
Demetric Holley
Linda Johnson
Herbert Jones Jr.
Larry Kitt
Shaniqua Richardson
Reggie Taylor
Verlez Washington
View video of program
Kicking Off Child Safety Passenger Week
In partnership with the District Department of Transportation, Metropolitan Police Department, DC Highway Safety Office, State Farm and Safe Kids DC, DMV hosted a free car seat installation and inspection event on Monday, September 16 to kickoff Child Passenger Safety Week (September 15-21). During this event, representatives from our inspection station were able to provide free car seat safety checks and installation assistance.
Free car seats were also available, with 39 car seats provided to District residents.
See video slideshow from event
#TeamDMV Represents in the Community
Senior Fair: Aging Unbound with Seniors
On Monday, September 9, members of #TeamDMV's Correspondence Team participated in the 2024 Senior Fair: Aging Unbound with Seniors in partnership with the Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated Xi Omega Chapter and the DC Department of Aging & Community Living (DACL). This event included free health screenings, expert advice on senior care and finances, sweet #TeamDMV swag, live music with the MPD Side by Side Band and much more.
Eighth Annual Community Resource Fair with the Residents of Samuel Kelsey
On Wednesday, September 11, members of #TeamDMV's Correspondence Team also participated in the Eighth Annual Community Resource Fair, hosted by DACL. During this event, residents of the Samuel Kelsey apartments, located at 3322 14th Street NW, were provided resources via DACL's partners and received more information on how to obtain an identification card, while receiving some of #TeamDMV's swag.
See photos and videos from both events
📸 📹 Demaria Corley
Ghana Visits DC
Coordinated by the Director of International Affairs and Protocol Officer at the Office of the Secretary of State of the District of Columbia, Chief of Staff Tyrone Sweatt and Ticket Ombudsman Tony Dugger met with the Ghanian Ministry of Transport as part of their citywide operations and governance tour. During this engagement, our #TeamDMV representatives provided the Ministry with an in-depth presentation addressing policies and practices associated with driver licensing and vehicle registration in the District and strategized opportunities for improving existing regulations and practices.
We remain #dcproud of our Sister City relationship with Accra! #wearedc
Marsha Thompson (September 1), Jorma Cavaleri (September 1) | Juan Aliaga (September 2), Julius Thomas (September 2) | Lawanda Kearney (September 7) | Bria Cleveland (September 10), Kirby Sanders (September 10) | Gloria Hardy (September 11), Michelle Small (September 11) | Edward Tate Jr. (September 12) | Johnice Walton (September 13) | Lachelle Johnson-Britton (September 14), Bobby Smith (September 14) | Ursula Holmes (September 15), Jeremy Beegle (September 15) | Gregory Simpson (September 19) | Wanda Butler (September 20), Shawn Watkins (September 20) | Scott Mills (September 22) | Nikita Johnson (September 24), Mercy Moore (September 24) | Tyrae Collins (September 25) | Joana Cruz (September 27) | Tracey Lee (September 28), Shahn Douglas (September 28), Linda Johnson (September 28), Jay Hornbuckle (September 28) | Desiree Matthews (September 29)
Kudos #TeamDMV
(Compliment(s) from our Social Media Fans)
"Wow. Just passed vehicle inspection—in & out in 12 mins. Thanks @dcdmv @DMOIDC @OUC_DC" ~Bill Rice
"@dcdmv The service I received today from Aramis Banks at the vehicle inspection section, was outstanding. His professionalism and courteous service was great!!" ~Bryan Castelow
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#TeamDMV's Job Prep Workshop for District Residents is back! 💼🖊️📝
DC DMV will host two employment workshops for District residents on today, September 19 and Saturday, September 21, from 6-8 pm. The two sessions will take place at 95 M Street SW.
The mini clinics, which will be led by DMV's human resources and training teams will focus on key interview skills, including how to answer interview questions, common interview “do’s and don’ts” and resume preparation tips and best practices.
To ensure optimal learning, the attendees will be split into three cohorts that will be housed throughout the building. One group will be in the basement, another will be in the service center's waiting area and the third will be on the second floor in the space in front of the elevator.
Share this information and encourage family and friends to attend. Space is limited, so interested residents are encouraged to register early. 🚨 The Eventbrite ticket and a valid DC credential will be required for entry.
Note to employees at 95 M Street SW: Set up on the second floor may begin around 5 pm and the sessions will begin just after 6 pm. If your office is located on the second floor, specifically within suite 200, please be advised that this session will be taking place outside of your entry way. Please ensure noise is kept to a minimum and know you may have an audience present if you happen to leave your workstation after the sessions begin at 6 pm.
September Employee Wellness Series
As we celebrate the month of September, it is not only important to highlight the importance of one's physical health, but also the essential role of mental well-being. Enhance every facet of health, including mental health, with DCHR's engaging webinars, which include sessions on Healthy Aging, Obesity Awareness and Mindfulness. 🧘♂️🧘♀️
 Additionally, stress less and stay protected during flu season with the flu shot clinics, held Tuesday, September 24 - Wednesday, October 9, located at seven District government sites. 💉🩺
Click on the above image for more information ⬆️
The Walktober Employee Wellness Challenge kicks off on Tuesday, October 1; registration is open and closes on Tuesday, October 8. Put on your sneakers 👟 and get ready to move for a better mood and improved mental health. 🚶♀️🚶♂️💖
Click on the image for more information ⬆️
For wellness resources and more information about immunization, healthy aging and obesity, visit DCHR's website. ❤️🩹⚕️
Financially Fit DC at Work: Controlling Debt
#DidYouKnow that the first step of saving is controlling your debt? 🧐💰 Join the Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking (DISB) on Friday, September 27, from 11 am - 12 pm to learn how to not allow debt take away your peace of mind. Register
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Communications Suite of Tools |
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Have questions about how to promote your program or initiative? Need support on graphic design, copy editing, event planning, photography, videography, social media or the DMV website and intranet? DMV's Communications team is here to help!
Please submit your details and we will get back to you as soon as possible!
Visit the intranet here for more information.
Key Communications Contacts ⬇️
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Team Member
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Job Title
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Email Address
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Contact this team member for questions about…
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Chiderah Monde
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Public Information Officer
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Chiderah.Monde@dc.gov
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✅ Team Lead
✅ General Communications Inquiries
✅ Media Inquiries
✅ External events and public engagement
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Emma Steinmetz
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Communications Specialist
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Emma.Steinmetz@dc.gov
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✅ Graphics Request
✅ Photography
✅ Videography
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Kellye Underwood
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Management Analyst
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Kellye.Underwood@dc.gov
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✅ DMV Intranet
✅ DMV Website
✅ Employee Newsletter
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Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated from September 15 - October 15 is a time to pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have influenced and enriched our nation and society. ❤️🧡💛
Events will be taking place across the District. View more information here.
♍️ Virgo Season Celebration! ♍️
On Wednesday, August 21, members of the Correspondence Team celebrated Correspondence Management Specialist/DMV's Community Outreach Coordinator Demaria Corley's birthday. “I created the birthday club to show my colleagues that everyone deserves to be celebrated on their special day,” said Demaria. "For my birthday this year, my colleagues really went above and beyond to celebrate me, with a delicious brunch and an extravagant lunch. I truly felt appreciated and the love overflowed. Thank you to everyone who took the time to celebrate with me for my birthday."
Demaria’s birthday was on Monday, August 26! 🎂🎁🎈
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It's the second most exciting time of the year! The NFL is back baby! Whether you cheer for the Washington Commanders, Dallas Cowboys or the Pittsburgh Steelers, it's a great time of the year to be in front of your television on Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays. 🏈📺 |
Let's test your NFL team knowledge: name three to five states that do not have an NFL team? 🤔🇺🇸🏈
The answer to the August 2024 trivia question is California, with 143 participants.
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News You Can Use Around the District |
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It's An Alllllll Night Art Celebration
Come on out and participate in an all-night art party, celebrating amazing talent across the city. 🖌️🎨 There will be live Go-Go music, food trucks, silent disco, Alma Thomas Art Studio hosted by Brian Bailey, Front Porch hosted by Noochi and much! 🥁🎶
🗓️ Saturday, September 28
⏰ 6 pm - 1 am
📍 MLK Memorial Library | 901 G Street NW
💲 Free
DC DPR's Fall Program Registration is Now Open
DC DPR's fall programs are now available for registration. 💻 Available for all ages, enjoy activities such as ballet, basketball, cheer and dance, fitness, swimming and much more. Eligible families can receive up to 75 percent off all fee-based programs.
Learn more
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