Eligibility
 
 
Those eligible to compete for awards are:
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Employees of City, County, or State Government and Indian tribes in New Mexico, excluding elected officials;
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Federal employees assigned duty stations in New Mexico;
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Employees of the scientific laboratories in New Mexico;
  › Private citizens who are permanent residents or are employed in New Mexico
Nominations of those employed in public agencies should be made by, or with the knowledge of, the supervisor of each candidate. A recommendation from the supervisor should accompany the nomination where possible.
 
Criteria for Selection
 
Public Officials
Performance on the job, such as:
 
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Quality of performance, at all levels of public service, as reflected in statements by supervisors and agency heads, performance awards, and other recognition of outstanding service.
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Special acts or services which contribute to effective and efficient government; creation of a positive relationship between the public servant as the representative of a branch of government and those outside of government; actions which contribute materially to the effectiveness of a government agency; or reaching out to the community beyond job requirements and providing expertise and efforts to improve the quality of life of New Mexicans at any level.
  › Improvements, innovations, and suggestions that contribute to enhanced quality, reduced cost or better governmental operations.
 
Performance beyond the job:
Active participation and significant contributions to the community or professional or service organizations on a voluntary basis.
 
Private Citizens
Active participation and significant contribution to public agencies, on a voluntary basis that seeks the improvement of the quality of government at all levels.
 
Exclude Political Activities
Political offices held and political activities of nominees shall not be included in the consideration for awards. No incumbent of elective office shall be considered for an award.
 
Length of Service
Service on the job or service as a private citizen to Government activities should be for a substantial period of time - approximately five years.