Houston Airports held its fifth annual Houston Friendly Rewards & Recognition Awards on Friday, Oct. 7. The event was attended by more than 400 employees of Houston Airports, the Transportation Security Agency, Customs and Border Protection, Houston Police, concessions companies and parking agencies who help to enhance the passenger experience at Houston Airports. Photos from the event are available here.

“Customer Service is our top priority at Houston Airports, and that does not happen without committed and dedicated employees who embrace that vision,” said Saba Abashawl Chief External Affairs Officer. “It is important to recognize those extraordinary employees who go above and beyond to enhance the travel experience for our passengers. Their willingness to not just meet, but exceed customers’ needs and expectations help us provide a positive and memorable experience every time they come to our airports. The winners as well as the nominees should be proud of their achievements and serve as an example to everyone at Houston Airports.”

The event’s theme focused around Superhero. Director of Airport Initiatives and Volunteer Services Caroline Schneider said with all the recent popularity of the Marvel Superhero Movies and the everyday deeds employees make to go above and beyond to “save the day” for customers, it made perfect sense.

Houston entrepreneur and philanthropist Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale served as the keynote speaker and talked about the importance of delivering excellent customer service.

Photos from the event are available here. The list of winners for the Fifth Annual Houston Friendly awards are as follows:

Commitment to Excellence Award

Employees receiving the most complementary letters and comment cards during a determined timeframe. The recipient routinely has a positive impact on the customer and is passionate about giving a high-level of service.

Winner: Keylonda Brown with New South Parking

Unsung Hero/Heroine Award

This award recognizes the employee who assisted a customer in a positive manner during their travel.  This individual's job function does not assist the customer in this fashion.  The service act performed positively enhances the Airport’s overall image by exceeding customer expectations.

Winner: German Canizales with Houston Airports

Heroic Service Award

This award recognizes an employee who helped to save a life or assisted with a medical emergency which made a positive impact at the Airport. This employee positively enhances the Airports overall image by exceeding customer expectations.Winner: TSA Security Officers Katina Givens and Lisa O’Mealey-Ober.

Winner: Fernanda Reyna with TSA

Reunited Award

This award recognizes an employee who went out of their way to reunite a customer with a lost item or person. This act is not part of the employee’s normal job description.

Winner: Stephanie Cannon with TSA