MS SC687

Commends Ann Coleman Thames of Brandon, Mississippi, for selection as one of the Mississippi Business Journal's "Fifty Leading Business Women for 2009" and as a Top 10 finalist for 2009 Business Woman of the Year.

Applauds Thames's 34 years of dedicated service to the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, including roles as Regional Case Manager, Director of Grants and Community Services, and Director of the Bureau of Workforce Development and Training.

Recognizes Thames's educational achievements including bachelor's degree in secondary education (1976) and master's degrees in community counseling (1978) and public policy and administration (2000), plus certification as a Certified Public Manager.

Highlights Thames's leadership accomplishments including development of the Department of Mental Health's "FOCUS" Accelerated Leadership Development Program, which was nominated for the Council of State Governments' 2009 "Innovations in Government Award," and her receipt of the 2008 Bradley A. Sanders Excellence in Service Award.

Acknowledges Thames's retirement effective April 30, 2010, and her mentorship of Department of Mental Health employees throughout her career.