Lamont Bates

May 22, 2012

Dear Lamont,

Aristotle said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit”. Habits are hard to break and luckily this quote is certainly well evidenced in the hard work and dedication of one of our own, a true man of excellence, Lamont Bates. 

Lamont, Halloween was no scary remembrance at SPIN in 2008, because on October 31, you became an integral member of the Spring Street Team and you began to make your mark not only as a competent and confident Direct Support Professional but most importantly as a kind, generous and courageous advocate and colleague.  Tina, Norman, and Roy  blossomed with your incredible support and it did not take long for SPIN to see the impact of your high performance.  Therefore, when the Medical Care Coordinator opportunity became available in June 2009, it was a “no brainer” that this was where you would continue to develop your career. SPIN could not be more fortunate.

There are so many reasons for your Employee of the Month nomination; however what stands out always is your strong advocacy and follow through in support of the needs of all individuals.  Kathy Smith said in her nomination letter that your support this month for Lisa and Cynthia was critical to their health and safety.  She continued to say “Lamont is an exceptional Medical Care Coordinator everyday but on this particular Friday, he was a shining star!” 

We all know that you make sure that no stone is left unturned.  Your competent skill set and strong advocacy has aided so many as you demonstrate true courage with the medical community ensuring that quality care is provided and that all needs of the individual are understood and respected.  Most recently, you articulated the individualized needs of Susan and challenged the medical professionals to stop, look and listen and ensure Susan’s best possible health.  Not an easy task but one that comes easy to a person of your integrity and determination.

Lamont, you are a clear example of a SPIN employee who not only understands SPIN’s Pillars but demonstrates and lives them in all that you do.  On any given day, it is simple to see your People First priority, passionate dedication and of course who can deny that incredible style of yours.  Your positive energy filled with that 100 watt smile and presentation forces us all to step it up! You are an integral member of the Health Services Department who collaborates with all stakeholders and expects the very best from everyone. That is music to my ears!

Lamont, on behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Managers, your colleagues and the many people that you support to live a life of possibilities, I congratulate you on this most deserving Employee of the Month for May, 2012.  And most importantly, thank you for sharing your habits of excellence in all that you do and all that you are. 

Sincerely,

Judith R. Dotzman
Executive Director