Employee of the Month Kicks off with First Recipient

President Claudia Schrader’s employee initiative takes off with its first Employee of the Month recipient selected and celebrated.

“The Employee of the Month is a Presidential initiative designed to acknowledge the hard work of employees across the campus, said Carmel Boyle, executive director of the Office of Human Resources. “Each month an employee will be celebrated for the work they are doing in support of our academic mission.”

Kim Melendez, director of the Counseling Center is the inaugural recipient (chosen for the month of September). “The Employee-of the Month recognition signifies the acknowledgment of hard work, dedication, and contributions to the College, said Melendez. “It is the validation of efforts and highlights the importance of recognizing individual contributions in a collaborative environment.  

Introducing an employee-of-the-month initiative in a college setting can be a great way to foster a positive work culture. It can help recognize and appreciate the efforts of staff, promoting engagement and morale. Celebrating achievements can also encourage collaboration and motivate others to contribute positively.”

Reflecting afterwards, Melendez acknowledged that she is humbled by the award and thanked the Employee of the Month Committee, those who nominated her, as she listed an extensive list of colleagues and their respective departments.  “Thank you so much for this honor. I’m truly grateful,” she said.

 Ms. Melendez also thanked those whose support help the Counseling Center to thrive.

“I also want to thank those that have been instrumental in all of the successes attributed to the Counseling Center, she said: Dr. Claudia Schrader, President of York College
Dr. Karen Williams, VP of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management
Dr. James Salnave, AVP/Dean of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management
Thank you, I am so fortunate to have your trust and support.”

 Melendez added that her award is not hers alone, but for her entire team, again listing a protracted list of names. I’d like to thank them for their hard work, support and encouragement, she said. “This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact.”

“I look forward to continuing this journey and working together to achieve great things.” Recipients of Employee-of-the-Month receive a certificate of acknowledgement and an award for the desk.