[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 146 (Monday, October 3, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S6046]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO W. TODD GRAMS

 Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment 
today to recognize W. Todd Grams for his service to our Nation's 
veterans. Mr. Grams serves as the chief financial officer and executive 
in charge for the Office of Management at the Department of Veterans 
Affairs, VA, where he has led the effort to improve the provision of 
benefits for our veterans through efficient financial management.
  Mr. Grams was recently awarded the prestigious 2011 Samuel J. Heyman 
Service to America Management Excellence Medal from the Partnership for 
Public Service. The award, also known as a ``Sammy,'' is one of the 
most important annual awards provided to Federal civil servants who 
have made a significant contribution to our country. Mr. Grams was 
recognized for his leadership in integrating and streamlining VA's 
operations, reducing costs, and improving delivery of services to 
veterans.
  Mr. Grams is a worthy recipient of the Management Excellence Medal. 
In his role as VA chief financial officer, he has demonstrated not only 
the courage, but also the creativity and tenacity necessary to help VA 
maximize value for our veterans. Along with the help of his qualified 
team, Mr. Grams' initial push for an in-depth analysis of VA's 
financial management priorities allowed VA to serve veterans with 
higher quality service and care. He redirected resources to lower the 
cost and risk for investment for VA. Furthermore, Mr. Grams integrated 
the management governance structure and established systems that 
allowed VA to spend money more wisely and improve services to veterans.
  I appreciate Mr. Grams' hard work and dedication at VA, and I am so 
pleased that his extraordinary talents and effort have been 
recognized.

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