REED Autism Services Bookkeeper Margaret Pinelli has been named this month’s REED Champion Among Us! This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Margaret received accolades for always being available to provide support to her colleagues. She is deeply concerned about the welfare of the organization and all its staff and loves interacting with our students and adult clients. She is an advocate for all individuals in the REED community.

Michele Yavarian, Chief Financial Officer, explained, “Margaret is an outstanding member of our team. As our accounts payable leader and bookkeeper, her exceptional dedication shines through in every task she undertakes. Her witty and warm personality helps create a relaxed and positive work environment. We are truly fortunate to have Margaret as a part of our team.”

Congratulations, Margaret! If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

Ryan Hauk, an instructor at REED Academy Oakland, has been named this month’s REED Champion Among Us! This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Ryan received accolades for being the “unsung hero of Class A.” He was also praised for his rapport with students, genuine interest in their success, and unique ability to de-escalate significant behavioral episodes.

“Ryan is a true champion among us! He is very supportive and resourceful both in and out of the classroom. He develops a great relationship with his students and coworkers and is committed to the success of everyone. Ryan will always jump in to lend a helping hand and create a positive environment,” said Dr. Leah Farinola, Principal, Chief School Administrator.

Congratulations, Ryan! If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

Mia McGowan, MA, BCBA, Senior Behavior Analyst at REED Intensive Behavior Services (RIBS), has been recognized as a REED Champion Among Us! This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Mia’s dedication to improving the quality of life for individuals and families has garnered well-deserved praise. Her passion for her work is evident in her efforts to ensure ethical and effective services for individuals with autism. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Mia has also provided supervision to BCBA candidates as they complete their certification requirements. Before joining RIBS in August 2022, Mia served as a Classroom Consultant/BCBA for REED Academy

David Wilson, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Director of RIBS, explained, “With her new role, Mia has showcased her leadership qualities. She played a vital role in piloting the RIBS program, working alongside me to conduct intensive behavior sessions, while leading her classroom staff. Since officially joining RIBS, her contributions have been instrumental in helping establish this critical REED program.”

Congratulations Mia! If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Ivan received praise for being an exceptional program manager, described as “the most helpful, supportive, and caring manager” and “one of the most compassionate, loyal, and earnest souls” they have ever met.

Others shared, “His genuine concern for each of the REED residents comes from deep within his heart. Ivan is always willing to lend a helping hand and values his DSP’s opinions and recommendations. He works very hard to ensure his group home is active, engaged, and the happiest it can be every day.”

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Ivan as a valued member of our team,” said Ja’Quan Dunn, REED Next Residential Coordinator. “His passion, dedication, and genuine care for others make him an exemplary program manager and a true REED Champion Among Us.”

Congratulations Ivan! If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Julianna was praised for her enthusiasm and dedication to engaging students in creative and fun activities that incorporate learning opportunities. Others added that she exudes positivity and always has a smile on her face while interacting with students and staff.

Dr. Leah Farinola, Principal/Chief School Administrator, said, “Julianna’s efforts to provide and promote group interactions is invaluable for our students and staff. Julianna always finds new and fun ways to ensure a great time is had by all! Student programming and staff morale continues to improve based on Julianna’s commitment to REED.”

Congratulations Julianna! If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

Congratulations to Heather Beatty, REED Next Day Program Manager, on being named a REED Champion Among Us! This title is given to team members who excel in their interactions with students, clients, families, and fellow colleagues, building community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Heather has been a part of REED’s family since 2012, working as an Instructor and Lead Instructor at REED Academy before taking over as Manager of the REED Next Day program in September 2021.

Heather was praised for her tremendous impact on the program, and for always being accessible, responsive, and willing to go the extra mile.” Added others, “Heather gives her best every single day. She works so hard to advocate not only for our clients but her staff. With her kind and patient manner, Heather brings light and positivity to everyone she interacts with.”

Kristina Iacovino, MA, BCBA, Director of Community Services, REED Next, said, “Heather is great at collaborating with others to meet program goals. She’s always willing to learn in order to develop new skills and lead her team effectively. She is so deserving of this honor.”

If you know of someone who deserves to be recognized for their outstanding work, please nominate them here. Winners are selected monthly.

In our work, there are those team members that excel in their interactions with students, clients, and fellow colleagues, who build community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards, all while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

About our honoree: “Sean is a great guy and a super hard worker. Since joining REED just a few months ago, he’s had an enormous and positive impact at our schools, our homes, and at Greens Do Good. He goes above and beyond to ensure all facilities are in excellent condition.”

“Sean was instrumental in the opening of our new Franklin Lakes campus,” explained Chantelle Walker, CEO, REED Autism Services. “From the moment he joined REED Autism Services, he’s made good things happen. I’m not sure how we managed before him!”

Want to nominate a staff member? Click here. Winners will be selected monthly.

In our work, there are those team members that excel in their interactions with students, clients, and colleagues, who build community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards, all while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

Here’s what we heard about Nicole: “Nicole is selfless. If you ever need anything, she is right there to help or will find a way to help you. Nicole adapts to every situation flawlessly, she is always kind and supportive of her classroom staff. She goes above and beyond for her students and loves them so much!

Dr. Leah Farinola, Chief School Administrator, and Sarah Gilbert, M.Ed., BCBA, Principal, REED Academy Franklin Lakes, add, “Nicole Hjelm is a dedicated and compassionate leader who is always present to meet the needs of her staff, students, and their families. Her collaborative spirit, and ability to work well with everyone, is what make her such a standout member of our team.”

Want to nominate a staff member? Click here. Winners will be selected monthly.

In our work, there are those team members that excel in their interactions with students, clients, and fellow colleagues, who build community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards, all while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

About our honoree: “Tyler has become an integral and vital member of our team. He advocates for and is a friend to people with autism. His dedication to providing a positive, meaningful experience to all learners has been amazing! He exemplifies everything that REED stands for on and off the farm.”

Tyler joined Greens Do Good in 2021 as a Farm Technician. Since then, he has served as Interim Workforce Development Coordinator and was promoted to Assistant Farm Manager in September 2022.

“Tyler brings a special energy to the farm,” explains REED Autism Services CEO Chantelle Walker. “He exudes kindness and patience and always goes above and beyond what is expected to ensure those around him feel included, valued and successful.”

Want to nominate a staff member? Click here. Winners will be selected monthly.

Aimee Ellerbrook, Direct Support Professional (DSP) with the REED Next Day Program, has been named a REED Champion Among Us! In our work, there are those team members that excel in their interactions with students, clients, and fellow colleagues, who build community with energy, enthusiasm, and the highest of standards, all while demonstrating new ways to enhance the lives of those around them.

According to the nominees, “Aimee has shown excellent leadership skills keeping her team motivated.” Others explained, “Aimee is a dedicated, consistent DSP who gives her best to clients every single day. With her kind and patient manner, Aimee brings light and positivity to everyone she interacts with.”

 “We’re thrilled to name Aimee our first Champion Among Us,” added Chantelle Walker, CEO, REED Autism Services. “Aimee is fully engaged with our REED Next clients. She’s formed a special bond, understands their needs and preferences, and brings commitment and creativity to her work. She demonstrates many of REED’s core values, particularly, our focus on the individual.”

Want to nominate a staff member? Click here. Winners will be selected monthly.