Staff member recognized for superb work
Jane Brown presents Career Developer Ann Heilbrunn with the 2009 Rev. Harold E. Brown Award for
Outstanding Staff Performance at the staff recognition event in June.
At the staff recognition event in June, COVA staff enjoyed a celebration of their hard work, dedication and efforts over the difficult past year. But one person, known for her unconditional devotion to her clients and her ability to empower them, was given top honors.
Ann Heilbrunn, career developer, was given the 2009 Rev. Harold E. Brown Award for Outstanding Staff Performance. Ann not only met all the criteria required for consideration of the award – but exceeded them.
In her nomination of Ann, Employment Team Director Stephanie Andrian wrote that Ann is a solid, dependable influence in her clients’ lives, and while she maintains her professionalism, they know that she is there if they need a friend.
“Ann’s participants really like her, and most of them enjoy coming to their appointments because she believes they can achieve their goals,” Stephanie said. “She gives them hope and helps them believe in themselves.”
The award, presented annually, was established in honor of the Rev. Harold Brown, a mental health advocate and COVA supporter. He served on the COVA Board of Directors, and following his death, his wife, Jane, has continued his mission.
Ann was selected from a pool of three other nominees, all of whom were deserving of the award, said COVA President Judy Braun. The other staff members nominated included Belinda Spinosi, employment peer specialist; Beth Kishiro, career developer; and Carrie Printz, benefits specialist.