The winners of the US Outstanding Security Performance Awards (OSPAs) have been revealed today in the “Gallery of Stars” – a 360-degree virtual interactive awards gallery.
Congratulations go to all those that were shortlisted as finalists and especially the winners!
Thanks go to TEAM Software for sponsoring the awards, to all the associations who supported them and nominated judges, and to ASIS International for partnering with us for the sixth year.
The 2021 winners are:
Outstanding In-House Security Manager/Director
William S. Marcisz JD CPP CHPA – AdventHealth
William “Bill” Marcisz has worked in healthcare since 1983 in both Security Administration and as a practicing Attorney. Bill is the Executive Director of Security, Safety and Emergency Management for Advent Health – Central Florida Division and oversees the CFD’s Corporate Security Division. Under Bill’s leadership, the AdventHealth-CFD Security Department has sustained IAHSS “Program of Distinction” status since 2014. Bill is a lifelong Security Professional with many notable accolades. Judges commented on his strong leadership and drive which was well evidenced by authorising white papers, directing change, and by the many awards bestowed to him.
Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
Dustin Wilhoit – Synergy Security Services
Dustin is a regional security manager for Synergy Security Services. In his role, he identified areas that needed significant attention to include the development of functional policies/procedures, strategic planning and recruiting, and a robust business plan to sustain success and promote growth. He uses ASIS standards and guidelines to direct his team, increasing the ROI to his clients and strengthening the trust of stakeholders. Dustin developed a training program, helping to increase morale, productivity, and employee relations. Judges felt that he had added value to the entire business and improved security operations utilizing industry best practices.
“First and foremost, I want to congratulate all of the winners, finalists, and nominees. I’m honored and proud to even be considered for this recognition, yet alone, actually win! Moving from a very large security company, to a very small, unheard of company definitely had many challenges, but I feel like my efforts made this company better financially, operationally, and administratively. I think my efforts built a framework and structure that will set them up for growth and success, all while providing a better service to the customers and community as a whole. Without a doubt, the category is occupied with unbelievable talent and great security companies, and I am humbled to be mentioned in the same conversation with these professionals”.
Outstanding Security Team
The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security – Michigan Medicine
The Michigan Medicine Security Team believes that a comprehensive, multi-faceted security program is most effective when it reduces risk and alleviates the anxiety in hospital neighbourhoods. MMS’s success is based on three key factors: trust, training, and technology. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, they drew on these factors as staff took on new and varied roles to safeguard critical supplies, promote and enforce compliance with new infection control standards, collaborate with clinical leadership to prepare for an influx of COVID-19 cases, and protect Michigan Medicine’s ability to provide care for over a million patients. Judges felt that the team had demonstrated a comprehensive approach in handling all safety and security matters.
This award means so much to the Michigan Medicine family and our DPSS team. Now more than ever, violence in healthcare is a very real problem, with 75% of all violence in any workplace occurring in a healthcare setting. DPSS Michigan Medicine uses the three pillars of Trust, Training, and Technology to ensure people are kept safe and, just as important, feel safe.
Brian Uridge, Director
Outstanding Security Officer
SSA Kevin O. Gonzalez – U.S. Department of State
Supervisory Special Agent Kevin O. Gonzalez is the U.S. Embassy Dublin, Ireland, Regional Security Officer with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). As a special agent assigned abroad, he used new and innovative approaches to advance the DSS mission, which is to provide a safe and secure environment for the conduct of U.S. foreign policy. He established clear expectations, as well as an open and positive environment to empower staff while cultivating relationships with the Irish police, local diplomatic corps, and the U.S. private sector.
Winning these awards is fantastic on so many levels. For me personally, my family gains a greater sense of understanding and pride in what I do and why it matters. Professionally, it gives me a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction to be recognized by such a prestigious organization. I have already received emails and kudos from a tremendously wide array of security professionals and organizations around the world, giving me stronger credibility, networking, and recognition capabilities to advance my career even further. It is an honor to be recognized and I greatly appreciate the judges for their faith in me and the work we are doing.
Outstanding Security Training Initiative
The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security – Michigan Medicine
At the University of Michigan, the Michigan Medicine Security team’s foundation is based on three key factors: trust, training, and technology. These three factors come together perfectly with the Multiple Integrated Learning Objectives (MILO) training. By using MILO to train security and clinical staff in verbal de-escalation and safe body proxemics, it helps strengthen relationships with the community, empower individuals with personal safety techniques, and utilize new technology and trends to create a safer experience for staff and patients alike.
This award means so much to the Michigan Medicine family and our DPSS team. Now more than ever, violence in healthcare is a very real problem, with 75% of all violence in any workplace occurring in a healthcare setting. DPSS Michigan Medicine uses the three pillars of Trust, Training, and Technology to ensure people are kept safe and, just as important, feel safe.
Brian Uridge, Director
Outstanding New Security Product
MailSecur – RaySecur
The MailSecur system provides real-time, 3D imaging to detect even the smallest threats. MailSecur detects more, smaller threats than X-ray. The system has 10 times greater sensitivity than the mmWave technology used elsewhere. Its 3D real-time imaging is safe for operators and requires no special shielding or environmental certifications. Designated the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology, MailSecur is revolutionizing mail inspection by eliminating cost and technical skill as barriers to reliable mail security. Judges felt the product was a great solution for an ongoing challenge across the industry.
Outstanding Security Consultant
Michael Gips, JD, CPP, CSyP, CAE – Global Insights in Professional Security (GIPS)
Michael Gips is a highly respected and accomplished security leader, content creator, and public speaker. Mike offers expertise in areas including insider threat, reputation management, physical security systems, and liability prevention. He writes a monthly leadership column for Security magazine, hosts a podcast for Inside Access Control, and presents at industry conferences. He previously served as Chief Global Knowledge & Learning Officer at ASIS International, where he developed the CSO Center for Leadership and Development and edited and published Security Management magazine. Judges noted his dedication to security on many levels over a period of more than 20 years.
When I saw the extraordinarily talented and accomplished professionals in my category, I felt grateful to even be in their company. To actually be named Outstanding Security Consultant is both surprising and humbling. Many of the fellow nominees are good friends and mentors, and they have skills and talents I can’t hope to match. I’m pleased to be recognized for my efforts to deliver value to the industry, buoy the profession, and support aspiring practitioners. Thank you so much for the recognition of all of the winners and nominees and for the role The OSPAs play in exalting an overlooked and under appreciated industry and profession.
Outstanding Security Partnership
U.S. Diplomatic Security Service in partnership with the U.S. private sector in Ireland – SSA Kevin O. Gonzalez
Supervisory Special Agent Kevin O. Gonzalez is the U.S. Embassy Dublin, Ireland, Regional Security Officer with the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). He is the Public Sector Chair of the OSAC Ireland – Dublin Country Chapter, a partnership between the State Department and private-sector security community, to enable the safe operation of U.S. organizations abroad. He coordinated virtual events for OSAC on crime, political violence, and the pandemic. He also introduced security contacts from other countries to U.S. organizations to boost networking and information-sharing opportunities.
Winning these awards is fantastic on so many levels. For me personally, my family gains a greater sense of understanding and pride in what I do and why it matters. Professionally, it gives me a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction to be recognized by such a prestigious organization. I have already received emails and kudos from a tremendously wide array of security professionals and organizations around the world, giving me stronger credibility, networking, and recognition capabilities to advance my career even further. It is an honor to be recognized and I greatly appreciate the judges for their faith in me and the work we are doing.
Outstanding Young Security Professional
Benjamin Brown, CPP – Microsoft
Ben Brown has created holistic programs enhancing the security of public – private shared infrastructure essential to national security. As an avid volunteer, he has also contributed to the development of security doctrine, including the ASIS International Physical Asset Protection Standard, ESRM Guideline, Associate Protection Professional and Certified Protection Professional board certifications. Ben also serves on the ASIS International Young Professionals, and Physical Security Communities as well as the Defense and Intelligence Council Steering Committee. Judges felt that Ben had demonstrated a clear passion for security, providing contributions to his organization and industry as a whole.
Outstanding Contract Security Guarding Company
Securitas Security Services
Securitas is regarded by many as the knowledge leader in the security industry, providing intelligent protective services for clients, thought leadership for the industry, development opportunities for employees, and value and leadership for stakeholders. The company’s ability to deliver on its commitments to stakeholders was particularly evident during the pandemic and domestic unrest that challenged individuals and businesses. They implemented unique processes and solutions which collectively demonstrated Securitas’ commitment to investing in clients, employees and communities amidst uncertainty.
Lifetime Achievement
Jeff Spivey CRISC CPP PSP
With a 40+ year career in law enforcement and private security Jeff is regarded by many as one of the most recognizable security practitioners, leaders and innovators. There are hundreds of security professionals who would credit him as a mentor and role model. He was one of the early voices for the need to develop the young security professional community globally. Over the years Jeff has held many prominent Board member roles, he has consistently advocated the need for professional development in the industry, including the need to enhance practitioner’s business acumen, increased understanding of IT threats and terminology, and the understanding of governance and standards-based risk management approaches. Judges felt Jeff had made an outstanding contribution to the security industry whilst giving back to others.
The ‘Gallery of Stars’ will remain open for 12-months and you can take a virtual tour here.
