PLACERVILLE, Calif. By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Staff Writer. (Sept 25, 2025)
— The California State Sheriffs’ Association has named Marianne Saindon, Assistant Public Administrator with the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, as the Civil Employee of the Year, recognizing her 15 years of dedicated service, innovation, and leadership.
Saindon, who has overseen the Civil Division, was credited with streamlining operations, increasing efficiency, and developing stronger systems that benefit both the Sheriff’s Office and the wider community. The award, given annually by the California State Sheriffs’ Association Foundation, honors non-sworn employees whose contributions exceed expectations and enhance public safety operations statewide.
“El Dorado County is extremely proud of Assistant Public Administrator Marianne Saindon and her commitment to the community,”
the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement this week.
“Her leadership and mentorship have not only benefited the county but also the state.”
The Civil Employee of the Year award is one of several annual honors issued by the association to spotlight excellence within sheriff’s offices across California. Saindon’s recognition places El Dorado County among the state’s leaders in civil administration, underscoring how behind-the-scenes work can directly impact the quality of public service.
What is known (from CSSA / CSSAF sources)
What the award is
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The Civil Employee of the Year award is given by the California State Sheriffs’ Association Foundation (CSSAF) to recognize a civilian (non-sworn) employee in a sheriff’s office whose performance “exceeds normal expectations,” shows innovation, dedication, and significant contributions.
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It is often presented during CSSA’s Medal of Valor / annual awards ceremonies or in companion publications.
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Past recipients have been highlighted in CSSA’s California Sheriff magazine, with statements from their Sheriffs endorsing their contributions.
Selection hints from past award descriptions
From how awardees are described, some implied criteria include:
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Exemplary service / going beyond expectations
e.g. “his contributions have far exceeded normal expectations.” -
Innovation or improvements
e.g. implementing new programs, process improvements, cost savings, or efficiency enhancements. -
Management / leadership within their role
Some recipients are praised for managing or coordinating divisions, or for being a resource to others. -
Impact / benefit to the community or the department
Award citations often emphasize how the person’s work has had a positive effect on the sheriff’s office operations or on public service. -
Recommendation by Sheriff or senior leadership
In past years, the Sheriff or leadership wrote letters explaining why the nominee merits the honor.
