Putting the Spotlight on Our Healthcare Heroes
At Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, our employees are heroes in every sense of the word, helping children, adolescents and adults with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences lead more fulfilling and rewarding lives. These committed and compassionate individuals humbly dedicate themselves to serving - and inspiring - others. Look below to read stories that recognize and celebrate Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes, and learn how they make meaningful and positive differences in the lives of those in our care - every day.
Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes:
Spotlight on Lynette Adhiambo – Devereux New Jersey Program Director
 Title: Program director
Center/office location: Devereux New Jersey – Upper Southern 1 Region (Gloucester and Camden counties)
Length of service: December 2019
In your role, what are your main responsibilities?
I oversee eight group homes in Gloucester and Camden counties. My responsibilities include:
- Recruiting, training and supervising eight program managers
- Ensuring program managers comply with all Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and Devereux standards
- Overseeing weekly, monthly and yearly budgets for the region
- Acting as a liaison between Devereux and group home residents’ stakeholders
- Facilitating monthly, quarterly and yearly meetings with program managers in my region and across the state
- Conducting quarterly program reviews in other regions to ensure compliance with DDD and Devereux standards
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing the individuals we serve live their lives to the fullest by meeting and exceeding their goals. Sometimes our individuals do not know their own potential. Helping them realize what they can do and then watching them succeed keeps me motivated.
Another rewarding part is seeing the staff entrusted to me prosper in their lives and careers. When staff tell me that something I shared with them changed the trajectory of their life or made them have bigger dreams for themselves, I feel valued.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
My mom was, and still is, my greatest inspiration. She always told me to, “Count your blessings.”
I also enjoy quotes. A friend shared his motto with me that I have since adopted: “Live life simply so that others may simply live.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Another quote I love is: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” – C. S. Lewis
How do you demonstrate Servant Leadership principles on a daily basis?
As a leader, I strive to provide my team with opportunities to succeed in their positions and in their lives. I make a point of celebrating all their achievements. My focus is on uniting them and helping them think of themselves and their positions as more than a job, but a calling. I recognize that when they understand what is expected of them, they thrive. I meet them where they are and help them “surprise” themselves by doing what they think is impossible.
For the individuals under my scope, I keep in mind their life goals and consider their strengths to help them succeed. Our individuals may not always understand the big picture. I help them see what they are capable of and focus on out-of-the box solutions to their challenges. By listening, observing and considering the whole person, we can always find ways to improve others’ lives.
What is one thing your colleagues don’t know about you?
My colleagues do not know that I hope to run for public office one day. I believe everything I’m learning now is preparing me for a bigger platform. I would like to be in a position to make positive legislative changes.
Why are you a Healthcare Hero?
I am a Healthcare Hero because I put others first. I try to understand the needs of others and am always willing to go above and beyond to meet those needs. I make a difference because I bring a wealth of knowledge to my role. I see the good in people and allow them to fail without giving up on them. I try to see what is in the heart of those I work with every day.
Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes:
Spotlight on Melanie Gawlak – Devereux Connecticut – The Glenholme School Clinical Supervisor
 Title: Clinical supervisor
Center/office location: Devereux Connecticut – The Glenholme School – Washington, Connecticut
Length of service: December 2021
In your role, what are your main responsibilities?
As clinical supervisor at Devereux Connecticut – The Glenholme School, I oversee and adhere to clinical and administrative policies, collaborate with our clinical director to refine treatment approaches and develop departmental goals for quality improvement. I manage training programs, ensure regulatory compliance and work with our leadership team and school psychiatrist to meet fiscal, ethical and legal standards. My duties include improving process structures, participating in the on-call rotation, setting program goals, coordinating clinical training and providing supervision. I also manage a student caseload, engage in clinical and campus initiatives, and oversee compliance with regulations and student and family goals.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is being a part of our students' therapeutic journey and witnessing their growth during their time at school. Seeing them progress and thrive is incredibly fulfilling and reinforces my commitment to their success and well-being.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I have been given is to always look for the successes, even on challenging days. This perspective helps me stay motivated and focused, and reminds me that progress often comes in small, incremental steps. Celebrating these victories keeps me inspired and dedicated to my work.
How do you demonstrate Servant Leadership principles on a daily basis?
I pride myself on demonstrating Servant Leadership principles with my colleagues, individuals and families on a daily basis. I am committed to taking a whole-person approach in all interactions, ensuring I understand and address the needs, strengths and goals of those I work with every day. By fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, I aim to empower others and contribute to their overall well-being, both professionally and personally.
What is one thing your colleagues don’t know about you?
One thing my colleagues might not know about me is that I am a singer in a band. This is a significant part of my self-care routine and serves as a creative outlet for me. It allows me to express myself in a different way and helps me maintain balance and energy in my professional life.
Why are you a Healthcare Hero?
As a healthcare hero, I make a difference by showing up for others, even on difficult days. Despite personal challenges, I am committed to setting aside outside concerns to be fully present for our students and my team. By doing so, I ensure that my support is unwavering, which helps foster a stable and encouraging environment.
Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes:
Spotlight on Jennifer Kammeraad – Devereux Florida Clinical Manager
 Title: Clinical manager
Center/office location: Devereux Florida – Winter Park, Florida
Length of service: August 2000
In your role, what are your main responsibilities?
I oversee Devereux Florida’s Orange outpatient program. Our team is comprised of more than 30 clinicians, advanced practice registered nurses and psychiatrists, and we provide services for more than 1,800 individuals, and their families, each year.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is helping the individuals we serve heal and empowering them to grow.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
I was told how important it is to build an amazing team to run your program.
How do you demonstrate Servant Leadership principles on a daily basis?
Although I am the manager of our large program, my approach is to offer support behind the scenes. My role is to serve our staff and ensure they have the tools and resources they need so they can focus on the important work of taking care of the individuals we serve.
What is one thing your colleagues don’t know about you?
I live with a plethora of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, fish, snakes and lizards. Some I embrace and others I do not.
Why are you a Healthcare Hero?
I don’t see myself as a hero. My job is to support the true Healthcare Heroes, the front-line workers who serve our individuals and families.
Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes:
Spotlight on Melvin Washington – Devereux PA Adult Services DSP
 Title: Direct support professional
Center/office location: Devereux Pennsylvania – Adult Services – West Chester, Pennsylvania
Length of service: June 1989
In your role, what are your main responsibilities?
I handle the medical concerns of our individuals. I schedule appointments, send paperwork to our nurse and other team members, confer with doctors concerning an individual's medical history, and monitor our individuals' medications. My other responsibilities include van runs and weekly grocery shopping, as well as other shopping for our individuals' wants and needs. I also assist my supervisor and colleagues in ensuring our house is running smoothly.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is simple – just knowing my individuals are happy and feel they are in a safe, comfortable and homelike environment.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
The best advice I have ever been given was, "Give it a try." I was trying to sell my neighbor a vacuum cleaner when he told me about a job opening at Devereux. He went on to describe his work in a group home. I was initially hesitant, but he told me to give it a try. I did, and 35 years later, I'm still here!
How do you demonstrate Servant Leadership principles on a daily basis?
I strive to serve as a positive example for my colleagues. When I enter the workplace, my immediate focus is on our individuals and the job at hand. Communication is also very important to me. Great communication between colleagues, the overall treatment team and family members is crucial for our individuals and helps in improving their lives.
What is one thing your colleagues don’t know about you?
My colleagues don't know I like to ski. I've been skiing since high school, and it's a lot of fun.
Why are you a Healthcare Hero?
I try to make a difference by first listening. As a veteran staff, I listen to my colleagues and assist them with any wants and needs. I listen to my individuals. So many times, we hear, but we don't listen effectively. It's important for me to know when my individuals need encouragement or just time to talk. I try to stay focused and be the best version of myself. Being considered a “Healthcare Hero” is an honor. I've worked for Devereux for a long time, and I've come to realize my individuals are heroes too because they helped me become a more compassionate and caring person.
Celebrating Devereux’s Healthcare Heroes:
Spotlight on Kimberly Barfield – Devereux Florida Program Director
 Title: 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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