WHERE COMPASSION MEETS ACTION

Honoring Our Sertoma Star Team

An agency like Sertoma Star Services is only as strong as the people within it. Our consumers and families are the reason we do this important work, but it is our staff who keep the wheels turning every day. Each year, staff gather for an agency-sponsored appreciation event to celebrate these efforts and acknowledge colleagues whose contributions have made a difference.

The following awards are peer-nominated recognitions of employees whose commitment
builds stronger programs, deeper connections, and a more inclusive community.

The Dan Strick Memorial Innovation Award
Created in memory of Sertoma Star Services’ former President/CEO, the Dan Strick Memorial Innovation Award honors employees who demonstrate creativity, forward thinking, and a commitment to improving the lives of those we serve. This year’s honoree is Simone Hawkins, Administrator of Positive Behavior Supports (shown above, right, with Sertoma Star Services President and CEO Kelly Berardelli).

“Simone has a rare combination of deep clinical skill, genuine relationship building, and steady, values-driven influence,” wrote her nominator. She empowers staff through innovative, real-world training techniques and has built strong cross-departmental relationships to expand supports and resources for teams across the agency. Her collaborative approach and focus on positive outcomes for consumers set her apart. Simone also goes above and beyond to know the people we support as individuals, using that insight to anticipate needs and prevent challenges before they escalate.

Randy is known for creative, out-of-the-box solutions. His nomination highlighted how he collaborates with other managers to match individuals across programs who share similar interests, creating opportunities for meaningful connections and increased community outings.

Gene leads with patience, compassion, and integrity. His staff admires his communication skills and steady presence often seeking him out for advice.”

The following awards are peer-nominated recognitions of employees whose commitment builds stronger programs, deeper connections, and a more inclusive community.

The Consumer Champion Award
The Consumer Champion Award is shared by Danielle Ciesielski, Indiana Administrator (below, left), and Christina Manzanales, Indiana DSP (below, right).

Danielle’s nomination included a family’s reflection on how their loved one has flourished since joining Sertoma Star Services after a previous negative experience elsewhere. They commended Danielle and her team for placing the consumer at the center of every decision, stating, “We are extremely fortunate to have our team, Danielle, and Sertoma Star Services.”

Christina’s nomination is from Lexi Westerfield (below, center), who shared, “Christina goes the extra mile for me and all of the consumers she serves. She tries to get to know everyone as an individual and picks up hours to help so many people, including myself.” Lexi described Christina supporting her socially, emotionally, and physically, adding, “Seeing Christina almost every day makes me smile. She is like family. She is amazing.”

Below are additional awards presented at the staff appreciation event. These peer-nominated honors reflect the contributions and high standards of excellence each employee brings to their role.

The STAR Award
Amber Macon, Direct Support Professional

Consumer Empowerment Award
Melanie Davis, Mental Health Counselor
Angel Ruffin, Community Living Facilitator

The Above and Beyond Award
Marland Heath, Janitorial Crew Leader

The Bridge Builder Award
Janean Clifton, Direct Support Professional

The Customer Service Award
Gina Foote, Community Partnerships and Event Manager
Anthony Sanders, Electronic Recycling Coordinator

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