The City of Fort Worth’s Public Events Department (PED) honored eight team members for excellence, dedication and leadership at their annual Employee Recognition Event December 18, 2025 at the Fort Worth Convention Center. PED’s Internal Communications Committee, with representatives from the Fort Worth Convention Center (FWCC), Will Rogers Memorial Center (WRMC) and the Office of Outdoor Events, manages its peer-to-peer recognition program that highlights City and PED values. Fifty nominations were received in eight categories. Awards were presented by PED Deputy Director and FWCC General Manager Cynthia Sanchez Serrano, CEM, CVP and WRMC General Manager Allison McNamara, CVP.
Back: Marcus Moore, Andrew Navejar, Hunter Eagle, Claude Humphrey
Not pictured: Raymond Mendez
These are the honorees and excerpts from their nominations: Rising Star Award – Andrew Navejar, Event Attendant, FWCC Andrew looks for work beyond his daily assignments and volunteers to complete pop-up tasks that go out over the two-way radio. In the short time he’s been here, he has shown much growth and a desire to learn more. He’s very approachable and dependable. When he’s on a task, he will get it done in a timely manner and done correctly. He has a bright future in the City of Fort Worth.
Builder Award – Raymond Mendez, Skilled Trades Tech 1, FWCC Raymond illustrates City of Fort Worth core values through and through. He holds himself accountable and will do everything within his power to complete tasks. He is honest, principled and respectful to everyone he encounters, from temp workers to clients. Raymond keeps everyone included. He is always looking to improve and to learn something new to gain more skills.
Unsung Hero Award – Marcus Moore, Skilled Trades Tech 1, FWCC Marcus came to Maintenance from Event Services and has taken on this new job very well. He has learned to install control parts like actuators on valves and dampers controlling HVAC equipment, begun college classes and obtained an EPA certification. He offers help, participates in employee engagement and contributes to the benefit of all. Dependable, steady and professional, he embraces and supports our culture.
Service Allstar Award – Christine Gillett, Sales & Events Manager, WRMC Christine is a professional who consistently excels in her role. Her initiative shines in every aspect of her work. She anticipates needs, identifies opportunities and takes action to ensure success. She leads by example, demonstrates outstanding dedication and inspires those around her. Christine is doing an incredible job as officer of the PED Safety Committee. Her commitment, reliability, and proactive approach make her an invaluable member of PED.
Spirit Award – Shanda Cartwright, National Sales Manager, FWCC Having completed the City of Fort Worth Lead the Experience Program, Shanda demonstrates a wide range of skills. While she achieves impressive sales results, she also elevates the spirit and performance of not only her sales team, but of the department. Whether through celebrating team successes or providing encouragement during challenging times, Shanda fosters a culture of collaboration, resilience and positivity.
Trailblazer Award – Hunter Eagle, Event Coordinator, FWCC Hunter has elevated the experience and service level for our clients. For crews, Hunter gets into detail with the manifest, helps when a show gets hectic, and is not too shy to throw down chairs. With calm professionalism, he proactively thinks through scenarios and coordinates logistics that are ever changing. His attention to detail instills confidence in clients even if there are challenges. He has created visuals for the best way to use our docks and assisted with the sponsorship program we are rolling out.
G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) Award – Robena Aguirre, Customer Service Rep 2, WRMC Robena has been with the City over 17 years and has played an important role as one of the behind-the-scenes, unsung heroes who ensure that WRMC runs effectively. She works tirelessly in our RV lots and shavings office helping visitors and is known by frequent visitors for the bright smile and upbeat spirit. Her colleagues value her knowledge and wisdom. That’s why Event Coordinators have nicknamed her the “Grandmother of Will Rogers.”
Leadership Award – Claude Humphrey, Operations Manager, WRMC Claude has been a cornerstone of WRMC for more than 20 years, serving as the go-to person for questions, solutions, and sound advice. His exceptional problem-solving skills and natural leadership make him a trusted resource for everyone, including those outside of his direct team.
Congratulations to all nominees and award recipients for embodying PED values of collaboration, creativity, City teamwork, flexibility, innovation and development.
