Kristina Burks is Berrien County’s 911 Dispatcher of the Year following a presentation at the Berrien County Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday.
Addressing the board, Undersheriff Greg Sanders said Burks is a supervisor at dispatch who’s instrumental to organization and staff recognition. Among other things last year, she supervised storm response around southern Berrien County, helped organize the response to critical crashes, and took the call about a double shooting.
“November 2, 2024, Kristine was recognized for outstanding coordination during the double shooting in Eau Claire,” Sanders said. “Her ability to manage large-scale incidents and run UIC channels effectively highlights her remarkable skills.”
Sanders said Burks is an example of what’s needed in a dispatcher.
“And what makes a good dispatcher or telecommunicator is a willingness to help people, active listening skills, good communication skills, the ability to multitask.”
Sanders said dispatchers also have to be able to take criticism because everything they do is recorded, and they need to be prepared for long shifts.
Several dispatchers were nominated for the honor as 911 Dispatch Director Caitlin Sampsell said it takes strength and resilience for the dispatchers to do what they do every day.
