The team member banquet has finally returned to Kensington Park! This banquet is an evening where the team can get dressed up and enjoy a night out with their fellow coworkers. Even though every year worked at KP is a year to celebrate, this year we decided to celebrate all those with monumental years of service (5, 10, 15, and 20+ years). We also recognized team members who have made some form of an influential impact on KP over the past year. The categories included: Most Valuable Player (MVP), Most Determined, Always Growing, Rookie of the Year, and a surprise Distinguished Leadership Award.
In the world of sports, the MVP award goes to the individual who makes the most significant impact on their team’s success. There are two employees we acknowledged as the MVPs in our workplace, who consistently raise the bar and make our team stronger and better. We recognize and appreciate their ability to enrich each day with an unwavering spirit to serve, passion for excellence, dedication and loyalty to seniors, families, and team members. It was with great honor and pride to present the MPV awards to Mulu Gebretsadik and Lovetta Kpue!
Victoria Bakunoff was given the Most Determined award in recognition of her continued commitment and never-ending hard work towards the success of the community. Victoria started at KP in August 2021 as a concierge, although she wears many hats and is willing to jump in wherever needed. Her determination is present when she is willing to go above and beyond to help someone. If Victoria does not have the answer, she will make sure that she finds the person who does. Whether sorting through resident mail, ensuring packages are delivered to the right people, putting in requests for maintenance orders, engaging with the many residents around her, reviewing daily reservations and being the all-around ‘goto’ person at the Groves, Victoria wins the Most Determined award for her tireless work to ensure that things get done! We are so lucky to have her on our team!
The Always Growing award was presented to Sherial Ellis in recognition of her determination, drive, and passion to support others while exhibiting growth professionally and personally. From day one, it was obvious that Sherial had a passion to serve others. Morissa Harris, Director of Dining Services, said, “I am very fortunate to work alongside her so closely over last few years in her lead role. Sherial has always accepted feedback, which allows her to excel in her role all while never giving up.” Sherial is loving to the residents, patient with the staff, and truly helps in every way possible. Congratulations, Sherial!
The Rookie of the Year was Lisa Holbrook, Lead Housekeeper, for her dedication, commitment, and overall performance during her first year at KP. Lisa is hardworking, reliable, dependable, and flexible. Her leadership style is different than many others. Lisa holds her staff accountable all while learning their strengths and weaknesses. She utilizes them in ways where they can be the best asset for the Environmental Service Department. Thank you, Lisa!
Lastly, Executive Director Mary Mell was presented with the Distinguished Leadership Award in honor of her exceptional dedication, guidance, and leadership that has left an indelible mark on the KP community. In the world of senior care, leadership of the highest caliber is not just desirable; it is essential. Her journey at KP is nothing short of extraordinary. Mary’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and happiness of our residents has allowed KP to be one of, if not the, most desirable senior living communities. She has transformed and maintains our community to a place of warmth, compassion, and quality care. Under her leadership, KP is a place where residents are not just cared for but also cherished. Her ability to bring together a team of dedicated professionals who share her passion for senior care is a testament to her leadership skills.
The team members listed above have made a positive impact on the lives of our residents, their families, and their fellow team members. Congratulations everyone!