Livingston County's Board of Commissioners celebrated the exceptional contributions of Kelly Johnson from the Veterans Affairs office during their recent meeting on August 25, 2025. Johnson was honored as the quarterly employee recognition recipient, highlighting her six years of dedicated service and her ascent to the role of Veterans Counselor 3.

Commissioner Gross praised Johnson's impact, noting that she has been instrumental in assisting veterans, their dependents, and survivors with navigating the complex VA system. Her commitment to her role has garnered her six nominations from the public, with veterans describing her as knowledgeable, professional, and irreplaceable.

Two poignant testimonials stood out during the recognition. One veteran shared how Johnson transformed his discouragement into hope, achieving an 80% rating in less than 90 days. Another combat veteran, who had previously given up on receiving benefits due to poor treatment, expressed gratitude for Johnson's compassionate support, stating that she made a world of difference in his life.

Ramon Baca, the director of Veterans Affairs, commended Johnson's work ethic and her role as a mentor to fellow officers, emphasizing her dedication to uplifting the department and the veterans they serve. Although Baca could not attend the meeting, his statement underscored the significance of recognizing employees like Johnson, who embody the spirit of service and commitment to the community.

The Board presented Johnson with a certificate of recognition, celebrating her unwavering dedication to the veterans of Livingston County. This acknowledgment not only honors her individual contributions but also reinforces the county's commitment to recognizing the hard work of its employees.