TRACEY BUCHER NAMED CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE YEAR BY THE GARDEN STATE CHAPTER OF THE INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE ASSOCIATION

PARSIPPANY, NJ (October 25, 2002) – At an October 3rd ceremony at the Newark Marriott, Tracey Bucher of Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey was one of three individuals named Customer Service Representative of the Year by the Garden State Chapter of the International Customer Service Association. Chosen by a group of her peers, Bucher won the award for her ability to consistently demonstrate skills and professionalism that result in the greatest levels of customer satisfaction.

Bucher was nominated for her award by Bobbi Homeyer, her team leader at Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey. "Tracey is a shining example of what we look for in an employee," said Homeyer. "Her friendly and professional demeanor is well received by customers and exemplifies the level of customer service that our company prides itself on. Tracey's patience, knowledge, and positive attitude contribute to her success, and enable her to turn around some of the most challenging calls."

The Customer Service Representative Awards were presented by Debra Breidt, President of the Garden State Customer Service Association, which is the New Jersey chapter of the 2,000-member national organization. The Garden State chapter has approximately 100 members who network throughout the year to discuss topics such as technology, hiring, and customer retention. Through a nomination process, the organization presents one award annually to the customer service representative, or in this case representatives, who truly go above and beyond their job description. The award is given in the first week of October to coincide with National Customer Service Week.

Bucher has been a Customer Service Agent with Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey for two years. She resides in Franklin, New Jersey.

Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey, Inc., is New Jersey’s and Connecticut's leading dental benefits carrier, providing coverage to more than one million people through contracts with employers in New Jersey and Connecticut. The Delta Dental Plan system is a national network of independently operated, not-for-profit dental service corporations specializing in providing dental benefits programs for employee groups throughout the country. For more information visit us on the Web at www.deltadentalnj.com.