‘I Never Forget A Smile:’ Ramstein Exchange Associate Named 2024 MILITARY STAR Ambassador of the Year
As a MILITARY STAR card ambassador, Ramstein Exchange Customer Service Clerk Associate Maria Elena Hess has heard more “nos” than “yeses” in her career, but when she was named the Ambassador of the Year, she couldn’t believe it.
“I am honestly overwhelmed. I really didn’t expect this,” Hess said. “I am honored and so happy to make our team proud.”
Hess earned the recognition out of nearly 220 ambassadors. She received a Thanks Award and certificate for her work.
“This year, the Exchange Credit Program wanted to recognize someone for their role as a leader in the program,” ECP Senior Vice President Tommy Ward said. “Hess’ dedication as an ambassador, her commitment to help colleagues, cardmembers and shoppers, made her deserving of the honor.”
In 2024, Hess provided training and coaching for associates to help increase their awareness of MILITARY STAR’s benefits. She also supported her fellow ambassadors, consistently sharing best practices, success stories and ideas, while sharing feedback with store management on new accounts and sales results.
She was also the second top performing ambassador in her region, opening 260 new accounts.
Ambassadors, including the winner of the Ambassador of the Year Award, are selected by ECP based on consistent use of best practices in sharing MILITARY STAR’s information with shoppers, growing new cardmember accounts and more while maintaining their regular duties as an associate.
Hess said the easiest practice is to be friendly and accommodating to shoppers.
“It’s an honor for us to serve the military,” Hess said. “I never forget a smile can make shoppers feel relaxed. I just try to be polite and nice. Since starting my job, I have learned to be more patient and understanding.”
Hess said some shoppers already have the card or aren’t interested in registering, but she always informs shoppers of the card’s benefits, rewards and fair terms, including MILITARY STAR’s collaboration with Discover to expand acceptance across installations.
“If they have one, I remind them, ‘Don’t forget to use your MILITARY STAR card. We are full of promotions, deals and offers,’ ” Hess said. “If they do not have one, then I ask if they are aware of the card’s benefits. If they aren’t ready to apply, I let them know when they are, I’ll be glad to do their application.”
Hess credited her fellow ambassadors for her success.
“Even though everyone is different, we all share our knowledge and expertise. I always learn from them,” Hess said. “Without them, I wouldn’t be the winner.”
The MILITARY STAR card offers benefits for both shoppers and the Exchange. In 2024, The card generated $473 million in value for the military community, including from interest savings and rewards for service members and their families.
Congratulations on a job well done!
Ma’am, Thank you very much.
WOW, Congratulations, Ms. Maria Elena Hess. Great Job Ma’am!!
Thank you so much Sir!.
Congratulations Maria!
Thank you, so much Ma’am. Highly appreciated.
Congratulations to you, Ms. Maria Elena Hess, thank you for sharing your ideas and thoughts I’ve learn so many things as Military Star card Ambassador.
Thank you so much Ma’am, very much appreciated! 🙂 Yes, Our Military Ambassador’s chat is very important, everybody shared their expertise, experiences, learning to know the answers to our question’s. Meaning supporting each other, that’s why we are called as a Team! This big responsibility can be completed only when we all unite together, helping and assisting each other. Like one big family, therefore, let’s go Team! We got this! We can only be proud to serve our Military Troops, Family, and Community! Thank you, Military Star Card! :*