DSPS deputy secretary recognized as public service champion

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Local Gov 250 and the National Academy of Public Administration announced today that Department of Safety and Professional Services Deputy Secretary Jennifer Garrett has been selected as a 250 Public Service Champion.

“I am incredibly proud to work in state government and to serve the people of Wisconsin. It has been the highlight of my career,” Garrett said. “I’m also proud to be included with such a strong list of national, state, and local leaders who have dedicated their time and energy to public service and who strive to ensure that government works—and works well.”

Local Gov 250 is a national effort to honor and elevate the role of government in the United States. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the National Academy of Public Administration and its partners created the awards process to honor 250 public servants who have had an exceptional impact on their communities.

“There are many leaders working in government across the country who are deserving of recognition, and this year marks an especially important time for our country to honor them. These 250 Champions are truly special and make a difference in our everyday lives,” said James Christian Blockwood, president and CEO of the National Academy of Public Administration, in a news release announcing the winners. “We look forward to celebrating all of them, and hope this inspires future public servants and the American people.”

Deputy Secretary Garrett is one of seven honorees from Wisconsin and the only state government employee to earn the honor. She and the other Local Gov 250 Champions will be recognized at a reception in Philadelphia later this year.

Garrett has more than 10 years of state service and has been at DSPS nearly seven years. In 2024, the Council of State Governments selected Garrett to participate in their Henry Toll Fellowship, the nation’s premier leadership development program for state government officials.