ICMA's Assistant Excellence in Leadership Award in Memory of Buford M. Watson recognizes the contributions of local government professionals who are serving as assistants (regardless of title) to chief local government administrators and department heads and have made significant contributions towards excellence in leadership. In 1990, ICMA presented the award to Marie Shook, assistant county manager, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. This article highlights two initiatives implemented by Ms. Shook--the Employees Quality Improvement Program (EQUIP) and the NETWORK--that tap the energy, expertise, and creativity of county staff. Learn more about ICMA's Annual Awards program.