| PLANO, Texas – Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Frank Coan, Jr., Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci L. Kenner, and Budget Officer Lenita Persohn of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas were among 183 Department of Justice employees recognized by Attorney General Todd Blanche and Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) Director Francey Hakes at the 2026 Director’s Awards Ceremony held Oct. 28 in the Great Hall of the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building in Washington, D.C. The awards recognize outstanding achievements by employees of the U.S. Attorney’s Offices. “These awards reflect the extraordinary talent, professionalism, and commitment to public service found throughout the Eastern District of Texas,” said United States Attorney Jay R. Combs. “Frank Coan, Traci Kenner, and Lenita Persohn each exemplify excellence in their respective roles and have made lasting contributions to our office, the Department of Justice, and the citizens we serve. Through the outstanding leadership of Civil Chief Frank Coan, the exceptional legal advocacy of Assistant United States Attorney Traci Kenner, and the steadfast stewardship of public resources of Budget Officer Lenita Persohn, the cause of justice has been advanced. We are proud to see their remarkable service recognized by Attorney General Blanche and EOUSA Director Hakes.” EXCELLENCE IN A MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY ROLE L. Frank Coan, Jr., an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Tyler Office, leads the Civil Division of the Eastern District of Texas with vision, judgment and an unwavering commitment to justice. His leadership has elevated its mission, strengthened its impact and ensured its vital work is recognized across the district. His leadership reflects true excellence. EXCELLENCE AS AN APPELLATE ASSISTANT UNITED STATES ATTORNEY Traci L. Kenner, an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Tyler Office for more than 30 years, has served the Eastern District of Texas with exceptional skill and dedication. Her steadfast work on complex appellate matters and her unwavering commitment to justice have made an enduring impact. She exemplifies excellence. SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE IN ADMINISTRATION Lenita Persohn, of Beaumont, is the Eastern District of Texas’ Budget Officer. Persohn exemplifies unmatched stewardship of taxpayer funds, guiding the Eastern District of Texas with exceptional skill and professionalism. Her dedication, expertise, and quiet leadership over four decades keep operations strong and moving forward. She is truly indispensable. EOUSA provides oversight, general executive assistance, and direction to the 94 United States Attorneys’ offices around the country. For more information on EOUSA and its mission, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao. |
