OCEAN CITY, Md. (October 19, 2026) — The Maryland 9-1-1 Board hosted its annual Day of Celebration, bringing together public safety leaders, telecommunicators, and emergency management officials to honor the critical, life-saving work performed across the State’s public safety answering points (PSAPs). This event recognized outstanding 9-1-1 Specialists from 15 counties representing the backbone of Maryland’s emergency communications network.
“Our 9-1-1 specialists are the calm, steady voices guiding Marylanders through their darkest hours,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “From pioneering youth training pathways to steering decades of statewide emergency infrastructure evolution, these honorees represent the highest standard of public service.”
9-1-1 Specialists Honored
- Carder Miller, Allegany County
- Angela Daniels, Anne Arundel County
- Nicole Alluisi, Baltimore County
- Lacey Jones, Calvert County
- Matthew Molineu, Carroll County
- Diane Strong, Cecil County
- Emalee McLaren, Frederick County
- Sheena Brenneman, Garrett County
- Brooke Beard, Harford County
- Richard Dowling, Kent Count
- Bert Piasecki, Kent County
- Roshauna Kelly, Prince George’s County
- LaTanya Irby, Prince George’s County
- Serina Childs, Prince George’s County
- Olivia Darling, Queen Anne’s County
- Jessica Norvell, St. Mary’s County
- Charles “Ricky” Smith, Talbot County
- William Adkins, Wicomico County
Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training Award
The Marilyn Farndon Excellence in Training Award was presented to Antonella Volpe of Charles County for her excellence, innovation, and dedication to the emergency communications profession. Anthony Calabrese of Baltimore County and Monica Dietz of Wicomico County were also nominated for this prestigious honor, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the field.
The ultimate award recipient, Volpe, established a landmark partnership with Southern Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute to teach the IAED Emergency Telecommunicator Certification (ETC) to high school cadets, helping secure Maryland State Department of Education recognition of the ETC as an Industry Recognized Credential. Additionally, she independently implemented and developed her division’s Essential Personnel Training Management System to meticulously track certifications, awards, training, and employee development. Exceptionally organized, detail-oriented, and mission-driven, Volpe consistently exceeds expectations and advances the profession through her visionary leadership.
Steve Souder Lifetime Achievement Award
William “Butch” Frazier received the Steve Souder Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor reserved for individuals displaying significant dedication and leadership in advancing Maryland’s 9-1-1 system. Frazier concluded more than 18 years of service representing the Maryland Emergency Numbers Association (MENA) on the statewide board on June 30, 2026, having helped guide the critical transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) technology.
His lifetime of achievement spans over twenty years at the intersection of PSAP operations with the Charles County Department of Emergency Services, policy development, and the volunteer fire service. A Past President and Life Active member of the La Plata Volunteer Fire Department, Frazier’s profound legacy continues to shape the safety and infrastructure of communities across the State.
Maryland 9-1-1 centers are actively hiring telecommunicators and training coordinators across the State. To learn more about career paths and training opportunities, visit 911.maryland.gov/pages/careers.
