Missouri is one of the few states that provides public transit service in every county – enabling individuals to get where they need to go. Beyond working to offer this unmatched level of accessibility, many transit operators are electively going the extra mile to serve their respective communities and care for riders.
This includes five transit operators from Southeast Missouri Transportation Service (SMTS) who were presented with a Missouri Transit Operator Champion Award from the Missouri Public Transit Association (MPTA) during the 2025 Midwest Transit Conference, held in Kansas City in early September.
“Transit operators are the backbone of public transit systems, working diligently to deliver essential services across every county,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of the MPTA. “Their efforts often go unnoticed, and these awards are a way to recognize their dedication and willingness to go the distance.”
The honored transit operators were all nominated for this award by their employer SMTS and include:
Noe’ Flores who began driving for SMTS in August of 2024 and transports riders for non-emergency medical trips in Dent County. In the past year, he has quickly proven to be reliable, kind and always willing to go the extra mile. He was recognized for consistently stepping up without hesitation and volunteering for difficult or early trips – including long-distance dialysis runs, which means starting his day before dawn. Riders frequently express how much they enjoy riding with him because he has such a caring soul. He is always smiling and joking, which lifts the spirits of everyone around him. Flores’s commitment to helping others and his unwavering dedication to the team truly set him apart.
Vernon Neel who started driving for SMTS in February 2023 as a driver for the “SMTS Connect” fixed route in Phelps County. He was recognized for quickly becoming known for his dependability, self-sufficient work ethic and strong attention to detail. Neel is also deeply caring and consistently goes above and beyond for his riders. He takes pride in every aspect of his work, from maintaining a spotless vehicle, so it is safe and comfortable for the riders, to ensuring his paperwork is accurate and complete every day. Each morning and afternoon, he checks in with his supervisor and team to see if anything is needed, demonstrating a proactive and thoughtful attitude. Neel’s dedication to his work is matched by his warm personality and the care he brings to both his team and passengers.
JR Parker who has been driving for SMTS since 2018, with a focus on providing local paratransit service in Crawford County. He was recognized for being a dedicated, dependable and genuinely caring team member who goes above and beyond for both his fellow drivers, and the riders he serves. Always ready to lend a hand without complaint, he steps in whenever needed and is known for his positive attitude and team spirit. Riders often request him specifically because of the respectful and kind way he treats them. Whether he’s solving problems on the fly, assisting others with challenges or working on projects in his spare time, Parker brings reliability, initiative and heart to everything he does.
Whitney Phillips, a driver who has been with SMTS since 2023 in Texas County, was recognized for being a truly compassionate and dedicated professional who consistently goes the extra mile for those she serves. Throughout her years with SMTS in long-distance transportation, she has shown consistent kindness, patience and respect to her riders. Her friendly demeanor makes every interaction feel respectful and valued, never rushed or burdensome. Whether it’s recognizing a rider’s medical need and taking quick action to help or simply showing up each day with a warm attitude and genuine care, Phillips brings comfort, safety and positivity to every ride. Her reliability, attentiveness and hardworking nature make her not only a pleasure to be around but an invaluable part of the team.
Tony Tate who started driving for SMTS in 2019 in St. Francois County was recognized for quickly becoming a favorite by making lasting impressions with his riders and peers. He consistently goes above and beyond and is known for his kindness and uplifting spirit amongst riders and workshop staff. He brings joy to every ride, offers comfort during difficult times and always takes the time to check in, lend a hand or simply share a smile. Whether it’s helping someone through a personal health crisis, ensuring everyone’s safety with quiet respect or cheering up a client having a rough day, Tate shows unmatched dedication and compassion. His reliability, friendliness and genuine care make him truly the best of the best.
The MPTA helps support the state’s 32 transit providers by promoting access to public transit services and the value of personal mobility. To learn more, visit www.mopublictransit.org.
