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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

Melvin Washington

Melanie Gawlak, 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.


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Servant Leadership Snapshot

Jackline Osoro

Jackline Osoro, Direct Care Professional

Center/office location: Devereux California/Goleta, California

Length of service: February 2023

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

As a servant leader, I’m determined to bring positive change to society. I focus on the needs of others, especially the individuals I serve, who rely on my support in their daily lives. I try to listen intently to them and understand what they're saying. I put my worries aside and always offer a smile, giving them hope that all is well.

How do you inspire others to embrace Servant Leadership practices?

I try to serve as a role model for my team and a catalyst for change by demonstrating passion, purpose and principles through my actions. I encourage others to listen to the individuals we serve, actively and attentively, seeking to understand their perspectives, feelings and needs. I want to empower our individuals to learn social skills and make decisions in their daily lives.

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

When facing a challenge, knowing what to say or how to respond, and going the extra mile when needed, requires selflessness and compassion. I dedicate myself to the individuals I serve. I interact with them in a friendly manner, always respond with a smile and offer support in whatever way I can, with the goal of positively impacting their lives.


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Honoring Devereux’s Direct Care Team Members

 

Devereux Arizona DCP Jermaine Stewart

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

  


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