Odee Ann Leal, director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, has received high accolades from the U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs and Enforcement.

Leal has been selected as a recipient of the 2022 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director’s Award.

Leal was recognized at a Brownsville City Commission meeting where she was presented with a certificate of recognition signed by Mayor John Cowen Jr. and Helen Ramirez, AICP, City Manager.

The certificate in recognition read in part “Your dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the mission of the U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement are a source of great pride for our city. You have truly embodied the spirit of public service, displaying exceptional dedication in carrying out the duties and responsibilities that are vital to the protection of our nation.”

Leal said she was both humbled and honored to receive the Director’s Award from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and for being recognized by the mayor and city manager.

“Receiving this award and recognition is very humbling and serving and helping the Brownville community is at the forefront of what I do. You do your job not thinking about possible awards or recognitions you may get in the future you do your job because you love what you do and care about the community you live in. The Brownsville Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is responsible for preparing the city and its citizens for all emergencies whether they are natural disasters or man-made. My staff and I continuously work hard in overall planning and preparedness efforts to ensure that we do our utmost to keep everyone safe.”