PEP Recognizes 2026 Excellence in Risk Management Award Winners

Public Entity Partners honored six recipients with the 2026 Excellence in Risk Management Award during its annual Risk & Insurance Symposium. The award recognizes individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to protecting employees, residents and public resources.

This year’s recipients included:

East:

• Cindi Gordon, HR/risk program administrator, City of Oak Ridge:

Gordon was honored for rebuilding the city’s risk management program and establishing safety initiatives, employee training, inspection programs and monthly safety meetings.

• David Graves, workplace safety and risk manager, City of Maryville:

Graves was recognized for his thoughtful approach to identifying hazards and protecting employees and the public throughout his decades of service to Maryville.

Middle:

• City of Algood:

The city was recognized for creating an organization-wide culture of safety through strong leadership, employee training, safety equipment and proactive policies.

• Dana “Scooter” Sandefur, safety/security coordinator, Lebanon Housing Authority:

           Sandefur was honored for leading safety and security efforts that helped create the housing authority, which serves more than 1,000 residents, and is one of the safest areas in Lebanon.

West:

• Cody Bumpus, human resources director, City of Covington:

Bumpus was recognized for establishing the city’s Safety Council, expanding employee education and using data to improve accountability and reduce claims.

• Steve McDaniel, city manager/recorder, City of Parkers’ Crossroads:

McDaniel was honored for his hands-on leadership and commitment to maintaining safe operations across the city’s public facilities, events and attractions.

Through proactive safety programs, employee training, strong partnerships and thoughtful leadership, these recipients have helped create safer workplaces and stronger communities. Their efforts reflect the values at the heart of PEP’s mission and set an example for public entities across Tennessee.

PEP congratulates each of this year’s recipients and thanks them for their dedication to excellence in risk management.