District Digest News Stories

Nashville District announces employee of the month for June 2011

Nashville District Public Affairs
Published Aug. 1, 2011

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Aug. 1, 2011) – Janet Rainey Smith, command secretary in the Executive Office is the Nashville District Employee of the Month for June 2011.

Smith has been with the Corps more than eight years, returning to the Corps in 2009 after having a 20-year break in service working in private industry sales and marketing. She is married to Ed Smith, has two children and five-and one-half grandchildren… with another on the way!

She came to the Executive Office in April 2011 from the Engineering Construction Office.  With very little training, she quickly assumed the role of her position in the middle of the transition from Lt. Col. Anthony Mitchell to Lt. Col. James A. DeLapp - providing outstanding support to both. 

Smith assisted Mitchell by investigating processes and procedures necessary for his deployment to Iraq, all the while assisting DeLapp and his family with their incoming transition from Washington, D.C.

"Nominating Janet for employee of the month was a no-brainer,” said Joanne Mann, executive officer.  “Her drive and desire to serve are inspiring."

In addition to her regular duties, Smith showed that she is an exceptional planner and organizer - two skills critical in assisting with the change of command.  She ensured that a venue was reserved, locations for the farewell dinner and welcome lunch were garnered, and invitations were created, all the while building relationships crucial to the continued success of the district.

Smith also has a passion outside of work for her family, spending as much time as possible with her grandchildren.  She is currently pursuing a lifelong dream of completing her degree at Trevecca, sings on a praise team, enjoys gardening and spending time with friends, and takes a vacation cruise whenever possible.

According to Mann, Smith’s team-building skills were necessary when forming groups to assist with various functions of the change of command - she has mastered the art of delegating, while ensuring that tasks were assigned and accomplished. 

“Smith's desire and passion to serve is evident in all she touches,” Mann added.  “The entire District benefits from the knowledge, hard work, and enthusiasm that Janet brings with her every day.”

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