Diplomatic Security Senior Coordinator Wins Prestigious President’s Rank Award

Diplomatic Security Senior Coordinator Donald R. Reid received the 2007 Meritorious Senior Professionals & Executives Presidential Rank Award for his work reforming the Department’s security clearance process.

Reid is the Senior Coordinator for the Diplomatic Security Service’s Office of Security Infrastructure. He is responsible for the Department’s Information and Personnel Security/Suitability programs and key aspects of its network cyber security program. Reid’s Information Security responsibilities include the management of classified information programs, oversight of the Department’s Special Security Office, the operation of the Industrial Security program, and the investigation/resolution of security violations. Reid was one of 10 U.S. Department of State employees to receive the award.

Each year, the President recognizes and celebrates a small group of career Senior Executives with the President's Rank Award for exceptional long-term accomplishments. Winners of this award are strong leaders, professionals, and scientists who achieve outstanding results and consistently demonstrate strength, integrity, industry, and a relentless commitment to excellence in public service.

Reid’s impact on Department operations is significant. He is leading the transformation of the Department’s Personnel Security (security clearance) program into a transparent, customer-centered, and web-based system that employs technological solutions to ensure full integration with the Office of Personnel Management’s electronic clearance initiatives.

Award winners are chosen through a rigorous selection process. Reid was nominated by his agency heads, had his nomination evaluated by a board of private citizens, and approved by the President. The evaluation criteria focus on leadership and results. Meritorious rank recipients receive 20 percent of basic pay. All recipients receive a framed certificate signed by the President.

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is the U.S. Department of State’s law enforcement and security arm. The special agents, engineers, and security professionals of the Bureau are responsible for the security of 285 U.S. diplomatic missions around the world. In the United States, Diplomatic Security personnel protect the U.S. Secretary of State and high-ranking foreign dignitaries and officials visiting the United States, investigate passport and visa fraud, and conduct personnel security investigations. More information about the U.S. Department of State and the Bureau of Diplomatic Security may be obtained at www.state.gov/m/ds.

Contact: 
Darby G. Holladay
571-345-2507 
Holladaydg@state.gov