Nakema Craig

Oct 31, 2016

October 31, 2016

Dear Nakema,

Synergy is something that does not happen on its own. It takes intentional focus, caring commitment and a whole lot of hard work and dedication. But the result is a masterpiece of evidence based collaboration and often quality services and supports. This is how I would describe the teamwork and transition plan of Denise Deguzman and Richard Brown. When they transitioned the management support provided to Joan and the Wesleyan team it was not without a really great plan. Denise did not finish her management responsibilities without one very important bit of information.  Nakema Craig ROCKS and we need to nominate her for Employee of the Month! Well that made Richard smile and he made a quick note to get that done! Immediately, Richard recognized Nakema’s excellence as well and together Denise and Richard did not miss their opportunity to share how much they value Nakema’s special skills, gifts and talents in their nomination.

Nakema, Richard boasted in the nomination that “Nakema embodies SPIN’s mission and Pillars of People First, Professionalism. Performance Excellence and Productivity in her every action. The entire Wesleyan team looks up to and respects her. She exudes positive and creative energy. Nakema has natural leading ability and a strong professional ethic. I can rely on Nakema to manage all tasks associated with the home and share that information with her manager and support team. Nakema takes pride in her work and it shows in the level of support she offers to Joan.”

Denise shared in her glowing tribute that “Nakema should be recognized for her outstanding leadership and for her tireless efforts in supporting people to create and keep friendships. Nakema is hard-working and filled with integrity who takes her work very seriously. She is a source of inspiration for her colleagues who rely on her seasoned experience in the Behavioral Health Unit.”

Nakema, supporting people with behavioral health challenges requires a personal and professional commitment.  It is physically and emotionally draining and it requires constant refueling.  You ensure that Joan and your colleagues know that you are “All In” and they can depend upon you during eve the most difficult times.

Your positive, warm and welcoming personality creates trusting relationships with all. Your people first approaches are seen in so many ways.   One special way is how you focus on supporting Joan to look and feel her best, not missing an opportunity for Joan to walk out the door with her favorite blue eye shadow with a matching headband and her bright red lipstick, and of course all of her jewelry accessories to match.

Supporting people with disability to develop friendships is a priority for all Direct Support Professionals but it happens to be one of the most difficult outcomes to achieve. You need to identify the person’s strengths, you need to teach and train in social skills, you need to believe in the person and help them to believe in themselves. You have a special relationship with Joan capitalizing on her interests, strengths, goals and dreams Nakema, you have excelled and your caring commitment to Joan in developing friendships is an outstanding example to us all.  With you and the Wesleyan team’s support, Joan has made friendships with many women, especially with her “sorority sisters” Carole, Anna, Lauren, and Maya. You help the women plan and host house parties, spa days, holiday parties, day trips to the beach, lunch dates, movie dates, Phillies Games, a trip to Clementon Park and so many more. You help them to make every social opportunity be a success filled with meaningful activities and a whole lot of fun!

Nakema, there is no doubt that Denise and Richard are right that you ROCK as you are truly supporting Joan to live a life of possibilities!  On behalf of the SPIN Corporate Board, SPIN Management team, your colleagues and most importantly, Joan, congratulations on this most deserving Employee of the Month Award for September, 2016.  Your synergy, along with your team, is clearly a masterpiece of quality recognized and appreciated by all.

With Deepest Congratulations and Appreciation,

Judith Dotzman
Executive Director