Hartford, CT — The National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) yesterday named Connecticut Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Commissioner Michelle Gilman as the recipient of the 2025 National Ray Walton Leadership Award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to public service, innovation, and leadership excellence.
The Ray Walton Award is NASCA’s highest individual honor, presented annually to a state administrative leader who demonstrates exceptional integrity, vision, and commitment to improving state government operations nationwide.
“Michelle Gilman represents the best of Connecticut state government,” Governor Ned Lamont said. “Her leadership has strengthened how our government serves the public, making it more efficient, responsive, and innovative. I’m proud to see her recognized nationally for the work she’s done to modernize state operations while keeping the residents of the state at the center of every decision.”
“Michelle leads DAS with integrity, intelligence, and accountability,” said Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz. “She has been an innovator and made our state government more effective and efficient. This award is a recognition among her peers from other states and a well-deserved acknowledgment of her tireless efforts.”
NASCA Executive Director Elizabeth Whitehouse highlighted Commissioner Gilman’s influence on the national stage.
“Commissioner Gilman exemplifies the values of innovation, service, and leadership that define the National Ray Walton Leadership Award. Her forward-thinking approach to workforce development, technology, and organizational culture has set a model for states across the country.”
Commissioner Gilman was appointed by Governor Lamont in 2022 to lead the Department of Administrative Services, where she oversees statewide human resources, procurement, information technology, and facilities management.
The award was presented at the 2025 NASCA Institute in New Orleans, where state leaders from across the nation came together to exchange ideas, celebrate innovation, and advance best practices in public administration.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this award,” said Commissioner Gilman. “Public service is about people: the teams we lead, the communities we serve, and the partnerships we build. I share this recognition with my colleagues at DAS and across Connecticut who work every day to make government stronger and more effective.”
