After a brief and unintentional hiatus, I’m back with a round of Associate Shout-outs, all of which are great testimonials to the relentless spirit and sense of mission that courses through the veins of our Y.  So, without any further ado, here we go:

Meagan Davis (Lead Teacher, Y Preschool at UMBC)

Meagan took time to help me get started with all my onboarding tasks for the Y preschool at UMBC, as I am a new associate there. She took time out of her busy schedule to help guide me with how to use the Y preschool online system and all the forms I had to find on the site to print off for all the onboarding items I had to complete. Thanks again for helping me. (Submitted by Carrie Lee)

 

(Ryan Gadow, Tamara Gardner, Marvin Higgs, Kelly Kurpinski, Julie Lincoln, Ryan Novo, Angie Obaza, Marc Perry and Barb Schuller, from the Orokawa Y in Towson and Y Camp Spencer)

These associates volunteered on their holiday to represent the Y at the Towson Fourth of July parade. This parade has a rich 75 year history. These associates either assisted the Towson Chamber of Commerce in the actual operation of the parade or walked with the Orokawa Y group in the parade. Their efforts demonstrated the Orokawa Y in Towson’s long-time commitment to the community. (Submitted by Frank Holden)

 

Karen Hydress (Group Exercise Coordinator, The Walter and Betty Ward Y in Abingdon)

Karen was relentless in raising funds for “Send A Kid To Camp.” She encouraged every member that she came in contact with to help us achieve our goal. She raised $1,655 by merely asking – no special events, just asking. She is our SKC SUPERSTAR! (Submitted by Suzanne Green)

 

Tony Milton (Fitness Coach, The Y in Parkville)

I received a phone call from a member who went into great detail about the way Tony builds relationships with everyone. She explained that he always comes to check on her and others utilizing the equipment and it’s clear that he genuinely cares about the members. (Submitted by Lauren Reyes)

 

Shateria Murray (Youth Worker, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Y in Waverly)

Shateria consistently demonstrates her commitment and loyalty to the Y. Not only is she loyal to her primary position with youth development (working with Y Achievers) but she also works family events, schools out camp, preschool, and wherever else she is needed! She is dependable and definitely a team player and an asset to the Y! (Submitted by Ashley Funk)

 

ShaDonna Newman and Brenda Wynn (Resource Aides, Y Head Start in Freetown)

During the first day of our summer program at Head Start these ladies came in and supported the teachers with maximum effort! They also thoroughly cleaned the program kitchen without being asked, and made sure everything was organized, stocked, and ready when needed. Associates such as Ms. Brenda and ShaDonna truly embody teamwork and hospitality. (Submitted by Catherine Hinton)

 

Noah Plummer and Candace Roberson (Lifeguard and Membership Associate at the Y Randallstown Swim Center)

I was picking up donations that were at Randallstown for our “Be a Hero Drive” to benefit in-patient veterans. Noah and Candace jumped right in to help me get everything out to my car! The box was heavy (because there were so many items donated) and awkward. Multiple trips were needed. They didn’t hesitate to jump in and help and I hope they know how much their assistance was appreciated! (Submitted by Diana Beeson)

 

Megan Spencer (Human Resources Manager, Y Association Office)

Megan studied nights and weekends to prepare for the SPHR exam, a very challenging HR certification test. While many HR practitioners take two to three attempts to pass, Megan passed with flying colors on her very first try! Congratulations Megan! (Submitted by Kim Keating)

 

Catrina Springer and Shektia Wilkins (Community School Directors, Y School Partnerships)

I just wanted to take a moment to publicly thank Shekita and Catrina for stepping up and covering the New Horizons II program in Dundalk and Lansdowne this past week. Each of these ladies have a full plate and jumped in when coverage was needed last minute. More importantly, they took the time to get to know each of the students and establish relationships even though they would only be there a short amount of time. From the students (who are already asking about them) and the associates of the program, thank you so much for your time and help! (Submitted by Heather Naviasky)

 

Vikki Swain (Group Exercise Instructor, The Dancel Y in Ellicott City)

Vikki has been a steadfast volunteer for our Pedaling for Parkinson’s program. She’s in the class even on days she does not teach, connecting and uplifting the participants and being essential to the running of the program and her fellow instructors. Thank you Vikki for all your hard work. (Submitted by Katie Gandy)

 

All of you make me so proud and humbled to work alongside you.  You make the Y a special place for everyone in our community.

 

All the best,

John

P.S. Because there were so many great nominations sitting in the queue, I will be sending out a second round of Associate Shout-Outs this week, at which time I’ll include a link to submit even more!

John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland