At JEVS Human Services, some of our staff have been helping people succeed for decades. This year, we honored 31 employees who have reached 20 to 40 years of service at the Milestone Recognition Event. It was especially meaningful to see the honorees joined by their families and loved ones, celebrating their dedication together.
Liza Rodriguez, JEVS Chief Administrative Officer, speaking on behalf of CEO & President Cynthia Figueroa, highlighted the impact of their work:
Those of you here today have not only answered the call to serve, but you have remained steadfast and loyal in that calling to improve lives through the JEVS mission. Your impact can be seen across this city and beyond, through the countless lives and communities you have served. Thank you for staying on this journey.
Managers introduced each honoree and presented their awards.
Warren Akers, recognized for 35 years of service as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), reflected: “It’s been a very rewarding experience to support the individuals we serve. I treat them the way I would treat my own family members.”
Warren, who enjoys cooking, holiday decorating, and making cookies and brownies, is known for his calm and caring approach. The people he works with often ask to call him, even when he’s not working, knowing he can bring comfort and reassurance.
The importance of creating a workplace where employees can grow and thrive was also recognized. Joy Smith-Groomes, Senior VP of HR, noted: “Thank you for making JEVS a place where people want to grow, work, and stay.”
A special part of the ceremony honored the legacy of LaTanya Byrd, who worked for 25 years at Orleans Technical College. Her family joined the event to celebrate her dedication to students, colleagues, and the community. Her son spoke of her as both a mother and a leader, while her daughter recalled waiting in the car at the end of the day because LaTanya was so dedicated to her work, a story that drew chuckles from the crowd.
Following the ceremony, attendees joined a reception to celebrate the honorees and their many years of service.
Congratulations to all of this year’s milestone employees for their passion, dedication, and lasting impact on the JEVS community!
20 years of service
Kristen DePalma
Kira Dunn
Souleymane Fall
George Hall
Sharon Hollingsworth
Tahia Mills
Rosauro Nery
Vanessa Roque
Richy Thach
25 years of service
Kelvin Beckwith
Nolbert Brown
LaTanya Byrd, In Memoriam
Devona Denmark
Kshari Dublin
Barray Graham
Katherine Shinholster
Ranee Shipley
30 years of service
Helena Barnhill
Antour Hansford
Laurie Sanders
Michelle Simon
35 years of service
Warren Akers
Hollis Creighton
Maria Ellison
Jacobra Glenn
Richard Hewlett
Albert Hundley
40 years of service
Michael Bernot
Rita Starling Taylor
