ASCLD Recognizes Matthew Gamette, Director of the Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System, Boise, ID as recipient of the 2024 Briggs J. White Award for Excellence through Leadership in Forensic Science Management
GARNER, NC – The American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) proudly announces Matthew Gamette, Director of the Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System in Meridian, ID, as the recipient of the esteemed 2024 Briggs J. White Award. This accolade celebrates Mr. Gamette’s outstanding leadership in forensic science management, marking a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.
Matthew Gamette has held the position of Director at the Idaho State Police Forensic Services Laboratory System since 2014, following his tenure as Quality Manager from 2008 to 2014. Prior to this, he distinguished himself as a biological screening and DNA expert at the Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory in Spokane, WA.
A dedicated member of ASCLD, Mr. Gamette has actively contributed to the organization’s endeavors, earning recognition for his extensive presentations and volunteerism. He served as ASCLD’s president in 2018 and held the position of treasurer from 2014 to 2015, while also serving on the Board of Directors from 2013 to 2018. He has participated and/or served as chair for numerous ASCLD committees. During his presidency, Mr. Gamette spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives, including the ASCLD Accreditation Initiative.
Beyond his ASCLD involvement, Mr. Gamette has played pivotal roles in various committees, serving as Committee Chair and Chair of the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations (CFSO), https://thecfso.org, since 2015. In his capacity as CFSO Chair, he advocates tirelessly for grant funding, legislative improvements, and the adoption of cutting-edge technology to enhance forensic practices nationwide. Mr. Gamette also chairs the National Technology Validation and Implementation Collaborative (NTVIC), facilitating national collaboration on forensic science validation and method development.
In addition to his national contributions, Mr. Gamette remains actively engaged in quality assurance efforts, volunteering for the NIST OSAC and serving as a past NFSTC DNA Technical auditor and ISO auditor. His commitment extends to serving as an FBI NDIS Review Panel Member since 2006.
Mr. Gamette’s dedication to advancing forensic science was evident during the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, where he led efforts to support Puerto Rico’s forensic laboratory, showcasing his compassion and leadership on a global scale.
In recognition of his tireless advocacy and exceptional contributions to forensic science, Matthew Gamette exemplifies the highest standards of practice and managerial excellence. ASCLD proudly honors him with the 2024 Briggs J. White Award, acknowledging his invaluable service and profound impact on crime laboratory management.
About the Briggs J. White Award: When Dr. Briggs White became the Director of the FBI Laboratory, he recognized the need for closer cooperation with state and local crime laboratories, understanding the symbiotic value that could ensue. In 1973, he persuaded FBI Director Clarence Kelly, to invite thirty laboratory directors to a meeting at the FBI Academy in Quantico VA .
In the fall of 1974 after a great deal of debate, ASCLD was born with Dr. Briggs White as its first Chairman. ASCLD played a leading role in the improvement of forensic laboratories throughout the world, including raising the profile of forensic science in the legislative assemblies of the United States. Dr. White’s pivotal role was recognized with the establishment of the Briggs White Award for Excellence through Leadership in Forensic Science Management. The award was established at the direction of past President Bill Hartner to recognize an ASCLD member, past or present, who demonstrated managerial excellence in forensic science. https://www.ascld.org/our-history/
About ASCLD: ASCLD is a nonprofit professional society of crime laboratory directors and forensic science managers dedicated to providing excellence in forensic science through leadership and innovation. Founded in 1974, the purpose of the organization is to foster professional interests; assist the development of laboratory management principles and techniques; acquire, preserve, and disseminate forensic based information; maintain and improve communications among crime laboratory directors; and to promote, encourage and maintain the highest standards of practice in the field.