Articles from prior issues of The Advocate

March/April, 1999

Kudos To The SSA/DDS Partnership

COMMISSIONER’S BROADCAST February 2, 1999

Subject: SSA Receives Government Performance Award

A Message To All SSA And DDS Employees

I am pleased to report that SSA has received the highest marks among federal agencies surveyed in one of the most comprehensive studies of government management ever conducted. The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University graded all 50 state governments and 15 federal agencies on the management systems critical to effective public service. The results were announced yesterday at a National Press Club event in Washington, D.C.

The five critical areas graded were financial management, human resources management, information technology management, capital management and managing for results. SSA received four “A’s,” and a “B” in managing for results, for an overall “A” rating. Our agency was the only federal agency to receive an “A” grade.

This recognition for outstanding public service is a high honor and could not have been achieved without the dedicated work that you bring to your jobs every day. I believe there is a strong correlation between performance and public confidence in government. When we make government work, public confidence and trust in government rise.

By administering our programs so well, you not only promote the economic security of Americans, but you also strengthen the public trust in Social Security—one of government’s most important institutions.

I am proud that SSA is considered such a leader, and I am confident that we can meet any challenge ahead as changes are made to strengthen Social Security for the 21st century.

I would like to express my congratulations and gratitude to each of you for this accomplishment.

Kenneth S. Apfel Commissioner of Social Security