Setting the Bar High

n the complex world of federal travel and travel management, a few programs stand out. The Travel Manager of the Year awards program, now in its sixth year, recognizes those who exemplify the best in federal travel. In these pages we highlight diverse and groundbreaking projects at the Postal Service, the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs departments.

This month we also shine a spotlight on a man who has shaped federal travel in varied and surprising ways for more than 20 years-the Office of Management and Budget's Jack Kelly.

Finally, I'd like to thank those who have made my six years as travel editor so rewarding and fun. I've been impressed with the passion and dedication federal employees and travel managers bring to their work. A special thanks to those who have shared their travel stories, explained the esoterica of federal travel rules, or just given me an encouraging word.

Soon, Government Executive reporter Tanya Ballard will step into these shoes. After covering federal travel for our online partner, GovExec.com, she is savvy about the issues. She will want to know what's up in your federal travel world, so feel free to contact her at tballard@govexec.com or Travel Editor, Government Executive, 1501 M St., N.W., Suite 300, Washington, D.C. 20005.

Happy trails!
Travel Editor