IPPI Massachusetts held its annual Employee Appreciation Awards Ceremony on June 20th at the Colonial Hotel in Gardner, MA. The staff was treated to a barbeque dinner and a free raffle. The highlight of the night, however, was the awards ceremony.
Each year IPPI employees and providers have the opportunity to nominate anyone they believe is deserving of an Employee Appreciation award. The award recognizes those who represent the core values of the agency.
We’re proud to announce this year’s winners! Congratulations to all of you!
Direct Support Professional Award – Residential: Benjamin Danquah
Presented to residential services staff members who have consistently performed above expectations over the last year.“Ben is the consummate professional, always identifying the next steps and working toward solutions that support Lunenburg.”
Direct Support Professional Award – Day Program: Amayra Davila
Presented to day program staff members who have consistently performed above expectations over the last year.
“Amayra meets the individuals where they are at, gently coaches and pushes them to challenge themselves and is a supportive instructor, job coach and caregiver for the individuals she supports.”
Continue reading for the full list of award recipients.
Professional Development Award: Victoria Gaudet
Presented to staff members who have achieved significant growth through the effective use of supervision and training. This person has used both the positive and critical feedback of others to continue to self-assess and change behavior in order to better achieve the expectations of their role.“Strength of character, diligent and professional, a person to be counted on in the role of Shift Supervisor.”
Leadership Award: Aoma Muma
Presented to staff members who have shown superior leadership qualities while embracing teamwork, dedication and commitment, and a respect for all other team members. Someone who is truly a role model for all other staff as well as the individuals we serve and can represent the agency to all external partners.“Because of Aoma’s leadership, the staff at Lunenburg 1 can be proud of the successes they have had in helping the individuals create more choices in their lives.”
Professional Excellence Award: Malachi Abuga
Presented to a team member who has demonstrated commitment and dedication to his/her role while aspiring to effectively fulfill the expectations of that role with the utmost professionalism.“Malachi is a go-to person at the residential and day program and works hard every day to further his knowledge of each individual he comes in contact with to ensure the greatest success every day.”
Gail LeBlanc Memorial Award: Eric McNeil
Presented in memory of Gail LeBlanc, who was an exemplary Shared Living Provider with IPPI for eighteen years. The award is presented to a Shared Living Provider who aspires to match the service and dedication reached by Gail.”Eric and Paul are reminders that shared living can lead to happy, full, long-term partnerships.”
Administrative Support Staff of the Year Award: Heather M.
Presented to an administrative team member who has most effectively assisted in supporting the service delivery process. A team member who has personified the art of customer service and is aware of the impact his/her role plays in assisting team members support the individuals we serve.“Heather always thinks of the individual first and this is evident in her work on the various committees she sits on.”
Team Award: Presented annually by the Senior Management Team to a team that best personifies the agency’s mission. The award recognizes dedication and commitment to the individuals we serve, peers, and other team members. The recipients demonstrate a sincere desire to aid in agency growth and development to become the provider of choice.
Recipient: Quality Enhancement & Training Dept.
Kim Lawrence, Lisa Esposito, Rene Farrah, Rachelle Assante, Linda Kaiser
“Through their dedication and leadership, they provide endless support to all, helping to bring teams together to achieve a common goal.”
Directors Award: Delores Phatthammachack
Presented annually by the Senior Management Team to the staff member who best personifies the agency’s mission. The award recognizes dedication and commitment to the individuals we serve, peers, and other team members. The recipient demonstrates a sincere desire to aid in agency growth and development to become the provider of choice.
“Delores strives to push the envelope, always testing what can be achieved through strong teamwork, each and every day. A true leader!”
25 Years of Services
20 Years of Service
15 Years of Service
10 Years of Service
5 years of Service
View the 2019 IPPI Massachusetts Employee Appreciation Awards Ceremony Album here
Learn more about programs and services in Massachusetts here
About The Institute of Professional Practice, Inc. (IPPI)
The Institute of Professional Practice, Inc. provides services and supports to individuals of all ages living with developmental disabilities. Founded nearly 40 years ago, IPPI’s mission to build strong communities by empowering individuals permeates the work of the agency, which provides highly individuated care to everyone who turns to IPPI for support. IPPI’s service footprint spans throughout New England and in Maryland. Learn more about the transformational work happening in a community near you at www.ippi.org.