ESCANABA – Vincent Bevins of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Superior Region Office in Escanaba has received the 2014 MDOT Director’s Award – the department’s highest honor for outstanding service.

MDOT established the annual award more than 20 years ago to recognize employees who exhibit leadership and exemplary public service. Awardees are nominated by their peers for this special recognition.

“These are employees who display our department’s values of quality, teamwork and customer integrity, day-in and day-out, over and over,” said State Transportation Director Kirk T. Steudle. “Vince is well-known for his sincerity, friendliness and true integrity in his actions and decisions.”

Bevins, the region planner for MDOT’s Superior Region, was honored in the Professional Specialist category. He was one of just seven honorees this year.

Bevins was recognized for his dedication to serving internal and external customers and his calming influence. He took on the task of championing the Superior Region’s nonmotorized plan, attending numerous meetings with local groups to help them identify the top priorities in the Upper Peninsula. He then led all involved parties to a workable result, including assisting them through the process and necessary paperwork. Bevins also was instrumental in bringing together local agencies to improve safety and traffic flow in many communities by assisting them with crossover improvement plans.

“This award is truly an honor for me and my family,” Bevins said. “I am thankful I work for an organization that rewards initiative and provides almost limitless opportunities for personal and professional growth. This award represents the achievements of many.”

Bevins is a graduate of Northern Michigan University. He lives in Escanaba with his wife, Stacey, and their three children.

The Director’s Award program represents the various work categories within the department. While MDOT employees nominate their peers, committees comprised of workers from each category make the final recommendations to the department.