• About Us
• Advanced Philosophy of Care
• Mission, Values and Service
• Our Commitment to Safety
• Our History
• Senior Leadership Team
• Devereux Board of Trustees
• Annual Reports
• Devereux in the News
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
• Recognizing Our Employees
• Celebrating Our Devereux Families
• Sharing Messages of Hope

Recognizing Our Employees

At Devereux, our employees are the heart of our organization and our most important asset. Every day, these skilled and selfless individuals strive to provide the best possible care and support for the children, adolescents and adults we serve. We honor our talented team members in various ways, including the following article series. Look below to view our latest “Healthcare Heroes”, “Servant Leadership Snapshot” and “Honoring Devereux’s Direct Care Team Members” features that shine a light on our passionate and compassionate staff.

Access a full list of features that recognize our extraordinary employees.

• Healthcare Heroes
• Servant Leadership Snapshot
• Honoring Devereux’s Direct Care Team Members

Healthcare Heroes

Kimberly Barfield, Devereux Florida Program Director

Center/office location: Devereux Florida – Titusville, Florida

Length of service: September 2007

In your role, what are your main responsibilities?

As program director, I oversee all aspects of my program while providing a safe and caring environment for the youth we serve. I support my staff and clinical team by helping our individuals complete daily activities and achieve long-term goals. I strive to hire effective and efficient staff, understanding that being a motivating mentor is crucial to their success. I aim to create and nurture effective communication within the organization and build a team that utilizes such communication. I lead by example by pulling up my sleeves and getting my hands dirty when needed. One of my greatest strengths is the level of hands-on leadership I demonstrate within my program.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the successes of the individuals we serve and connecting with their families. I try to make a positive change in the lives of the youth in our care by building trust with them, as well as with their internal and external support systems. Another rewarding part of my job is witnessing the successes of my staff. I have seen so many team members advance within the organization. This growth reflects the time and development I have put in with them.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Treat others the way you want to be treated. This reminds me to be kind, sympathetic and treat others with respect.

How do you demonstrate Servant Leadership principles on a daily basis?

I believe leaders should be involved with their teams and the individuals and families they serve daily. Servant Leadership is when you lead by example, but remain humble when your achievements are noticed.

What is one thing your colleagues don’t know about you?

Two years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I pride myself in being a strong woman who has overcome a great deal in life, but to be transparent, I was terrified. I knew my team needed to know about my diagnosis, but telling them, while assuring them that I would remain their trusted leader, was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I informed them of my potential upcoming health challenges, but not for one day did I allow that to impact my work. I dedicated myself to my family, job, and the individuals we serve without batting an eye. I never gave up. Every day, I tried to get better and become a better me, not just for myself, but for everyone.

Why are you a Healthcare Hero?

I have the opportunity to make a difference every day. It’s an honor to be able to help the individuals we serve achieve their goals and see them smile, and knowing that you played a part in that smile.

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Servant Leadership Snapshot

Joseph Appiah, Day/Overnight Campus Coordinator

Center/office location: Devereux Massachusetts and Rhode Island/Rutland, Massachusetts

Length of service: February 2020

How do you embed an inclusive, Servant Leadership mindset into your daily processes?

As a servant leader, focusing on the needs of others is my top priority. I use all the resources at my disposal to provide best practices that unearth and inspire potential in the individuals I serve.

Because many of our individuals have experienced trauma, I know the important role our team members play in using the trauma-informed model of care. I always make myself available to staff, offering assistance when needed.

There's an ancient African word, “Ubuntu,” which means, “I am what I am because of who we all are,” and “humanity to others.”

How do you inspire others to embrace Servant Leadership practices?

To inspire others, I try to be a person of good character, one worthy of emulating. I exhibit strong relationship skills. I am there for my team, and I am committed to their personal and professional growth. I want my team to understand that leadership is a personal responsibility aimed at helping to develop everyone.

I try to make a significant impact in the lives of my team members by being empathetic, humble and focusing on their growth. Supporting my team in achieving our goals is a great source of inspiration, and it is naturally satisfying for me.

Share an example or story of how you demonstrated compassion or delivered quality customer service at your center.

As a result of a heating system malfunction, one of our off-campus group homes had to seek shelter on campus. After it was brought to my attention, I carried mattress for three of our individuals, prepared a place on campus for them to stay for the night, and made sure it felt like their home away from home. The next morning, I gave them breakfast and helped them complete their morning routines. Knowing they felt comfortable, and that I was able to help, was important to me.

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Honoring Devereux’s Direct Care Team Members

Jermaine Stewart, DCP
Devereux Arizona

“Jermaine understands the partnership and collaboration that are involved in making sure students participate in their education. He reads the room, and activity, and adjusts his interactions to make sure all students are engaged. He interacts with students in a way that makes them eager to participate. His infectious smile and laughter are refreshing not only to our students, but also to his colleagues. Knowing that Jermaine is in the house is an indication that it is going to be a great day!”
– Theresa Leal-Holmes, Devereux Arizona bilingual special
education teacher

View More Team Member Testimonials