At Sunstates Security, we understand that great results are driven by exceptional standards, and those standards are upheld by our leadership team. Our supervisors serve as the vital link between our company values and our daily operations, turning our mission of Honesty, Integrity, and Trust into tangible results.
The 2026 Supervisor of the Year awards recognize individuals who excelled in 2025 by mastering complex operations, protecting lives, and empowering their fellow officers. After a rigorous nationwide selection process, our executive leadership is proud to recognize three individuals whose performance defines the highest level of professional supervision.
Please join us in celebrating our 2026 Supervisor of the Year honorees.
Supervisor of the Year: LAURYN SAUNDERS, San Antonio
Lauryn earned this top honor through her transformative leadership and a data-driven approach that produced extraordinary results. Throughout 2025, she achieved a remarkable 68% reduction in employee turnover and a 35% decrease in unbilled overtime. By maintaining an elite 99.83% staffing coverage and mastering complex operational metrics during Quarterly Review Boards, Lauryn has proven herself to be a powerhouse of both financial discipline and personnel development.
Her ability to remain composed under pressure while fostering a culture of accountability and transparency has not only empowered her team but has also significantly strengthened our client partnerships. Lauryn’s executive-level professionalism and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a truly deserving recipient of this year’s prestigious award.
Second Place: GARY JOHNSON, Portland
Account Manager Gary Johnson is recognized for his outstanding leadership, decisiveness, and commitment to human life at the site in Portland, OR. While refueling a company vehicle, Gary observed an individual collapse at a busy intersection. Without hesitation, he activated his vehicle’s overhead lights to block traffic, demonstrating immediate situational awareness and concern for public safety.
Upon recognizing signs of a life-threatening overdose, Gary took charge of the scene, coordinating with 911 and bystanders. He directed the acquisition of Narcan from a nearby location and, while waiting, moved the individual to safety and continued life-saving efforts. Once the medication was obtained, Gary administered it and performed chest compressions until emergency medical personnel arrived. Paramedics later confirmed that Gary’s persistent and calm actions likely saved the man’s life. His selflessness and ability to take charge under extreme pressure exemplify the highest standards of the Sunstates leadership team.
Third Place: KHADIJAH RILEY-CHAPMAN, Charlotte
Since assuming leadership of the contracts in July 2025, Khadijah has managed 784 weekly hours and a team of 27 officers with distinction. A graduate of the Sunstates Leadership Candidate Program, she has consistently performed well above average, assisting with regional hiring fairs and cross-site scheduling. Her dedication earned her the regional Supervisor of the Quarter for the 4th quarter of 2025 and a Letter of Appreciation from the Police Department for her assistance in solving a hit-and-run case.
Khadijah’s vigilance reached a heroic peak in December 2025, when she intercepted an armed individual attempting to enter a building occupied by approximately 150 people. Despite the weapon being a homemade pistol that was difficult to identify via scanning, Khadijah’s sharp intuition allowed her to detect and seize the loaded firearm before the subject fled. Her quick thinking and bravery undoubtedly saved lives, earning her a letter of accommodation from our client and the deep respect of her peers.
2026 Supervisor of the Year Awards
Congratulations to Lauryn, Gary, and Khadijah for their incredible contributions to the safety and success of our partners and our people.
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