05/08/2026
We are incredibly excited to announce that the Sweetwater Combined Communications Center recipient for the 2026 Dispatch Hall of Fame is Dispatcher Val Gelinas!
Below is an excerpt from the nomination submitted by her peers, which really says it all...
"For Hall of Fame 2026, we nominate Val Gelinas. Val's contribution to this field is defined by her unwavering commitment to both the mission and the people behind it. She has been a dispatcher for various agencies for over 30 years and has dedicated her life to this profession.
During her 37 years as a dispatcher, Val has been active in APCO, holding several offices, has served on both the CISM and Peer Support Teams, and is currently our Peer Support Coordinator. She has always been an advocate for mental health and is always there to offer support and guidance whenever someone needs a person to talk to. In addition, Val is our contact for NCMEC and is a CTO.
Val is very dependable, reliable and always willing to cover shifts or provide overtime coverage when needed. She is a huge asset to this agency and is deserving of a place in the Hall of Fame."
Val was honored with a surprise ceremony last night that included a special visit by her family!
Congratulations, Val!
We're so proud to have you on our team!