We are excited to announce this year’s Award of Excellence winners. Winners were announced at our 49th Annual Convention & Expo: Envision the Possibilities on Monday, October, 21, 2024.
Award Categories:
Chief Executive Officer Award: Shiela Y. Moore, Hildebrand Family Self-Help Center
The Council annually recognizes excellence in the human service profession by presenting awards to our sector’s leadership. Each year, a chief executive officer or executive director is honored for their outstanding contributions to serving those in need.
Supervisor/Manager of the Year: Sandy Destra, NFI Massachusetts and Alicia Randolph, Venture Community Services
Two outstanding supervisors/managers are recognized each year for demonstrating excellence in leading and managing staff.
Gerry Wright Direct Service Employee: Kate Dyer, House of Possibilities and Ashraf Muguluma, TILL
Direct service employees provide essential supports, services, and above all, care to individuals with varying needs. Two awards are given to direct service employees to fully recognize outstanding dedication.
Volunteer of the Year: Rob Neal, Bridgewell and Jennifer Thomas, TILL
Volunteers freely give their time, talent and energy to human services organizations. This award will be given to a person for exemplary volunteerism within a private provider agency.
Ruth M. Batson Advocate of the Year: Stacey Forrest, Thrive Support & Advocacy
Advocates work tirelessly to secure the funding, services and supports that are necessary for people to reach their greatest potential. This award is given to an individual who demonstrates conviction, devotion and tenacity in support of human services.
Innovator of the Year: ReScripted, Center for Trauma and Embodiment at JRI
Innovative business models and practices can promote greater value and increase the social impact of our members. This award is given to an organization that has launched or grown an exemplary innovative program.
State Employee of the Year: Heidi Holland, MA Department of Mental Health
Provider employees work in partnership with state employees. This award will honor a state employee who has contributed significantly to the advancement of the provider industry.
Legislator of the Year: Senator John Velis and Representative Steve Ultrino
Providers often work closely with legislators throughout the year on matters that impact the sector. This award will honor a state representative and a state senator for outstanding contributions to the industry.
Business Partnership: Tobias Billups, Springfield Pharmacy
Providers work in partnership with vendors and receive significant help from corporate partners. This award will be given to a business that has worked to promote or better the industry.
Media: Hank Stolz, Radio Worcester
The media plays a large role in the public’s perception of the human service industry. This award will be given for reporting on an industry issue that has positively contributed to the public’s understanding of human services.