(Posted 2026 April)
DFS’ Positive and Professional Sarah Dade Is a Recipient of the 2026 Sharon Bulova Award!
Sarah Dade approaches her role as an administrative assistant with Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES) with a smile and a commitment to the golden rule, treating others as she would want to be treated. Her positive attitude and outstanding service to clients led to her nomination and selection as one of this year’s recipients of the Sharon Bulova Award for Exemplary Administrative Professionals.
Joining PAES in October 2022, Sarah applied her skills from her previous role working with children with special needs to her new position supporting residents applying for public benefits. “It was quite the change,” she shared, “but I was up for the challenge.” While the responsibilities of these roles were quite different, Sarah’s dedication to helping people through vulnerable moments never wavered.
PAES program manager Karla Ochoa sees the recognition as well-deserved:
“Sarah consistently contributes a positive attitude to the PAES division. As a front-facing representative of the department, she exemplifies the culture we strive to uphold by providing exceptional customer service, treating everyone with respect, and demonstrating our DFS values in every interaction with customers and colleagues. This nomination by her peer is a testament to her character and the high regard in which she is held.”
The Sharon Bulova Award recognizes proven leadership, initiative, and excellence among administrative assistants across Fairfax County Government agencies. Though the work can be demanding, Sarah stays motivated to deliver excellence each day to PAES clients who may be seeking financial, medical, food, or energy assistance.
“Asking for help is one of the hardest things for some people to do,” she says. “Our clients are relying on us to help them navigate paperwork and processes during a vulnerable stage in their life, so I like to make it as seamless as possible for their peace of mind…people are put at ease when they walk in and see a smiling face willing and ready to help them.”
Initially shocked to find out she won the Sharon Bulova Award, Sarah is grateful to be recognized for serving the people of Fairfax County and, in her words, “for just being me.”
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