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Jim Markert (left), Stephen Robarge Employee of the Year Award and Lynn Pietroski, Chief Operating Officer at the annual meeting of The Arc Jefferson - St. Lawrence.. Submitted Photo.

The Arc Jefferson - St. Lawrence (www.thearcjslc.org), recently held their Annual Meeting to elect the officers for the Board of Directors, as well as honor employees, volunteers, and individuals supported by the agency. The 2022-2023 elected officers for The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence Board of Directors are as follows: Jackie Sauter, President; Jennifer VanReenen, Vice President; and Joanne Rhode, Secretary/Treasurer.

Staff members, people supported, and volunteers were recognized for their achievements during the past year. Michelle Woodard received the David Brassbridge Staff Member of the Year Award. Woodard is a Production Coordinator with Vocational Services who has over 33 years of experience with the agency. Woodard is a dedicated supervisor who guides people with disabilities to work on contracts for area businesses. She is constantly learning new technology and enhancing her skills to keep up with the ever-changing aspects of the manufacturing and shipping business.

John Leo received one of the two Stephen Robarge Employee of the Year Awards. As an employee with more than 20 years of experience, Leo was honored for his work as an Incident Management Coordinator, investigator, and for his support of the Jefferson County self-advocates. Leo is a team player who shows absolute dignity and respect for each person he supports. He encourages people to advocate for themselves and teaches them the skills to do so successfully.

James Markert was also awarded the Stephen Robarge Employee of the Year Award. He is a 37-year veteran of the agency who is known to always put the needs of people supported by the agency first. Markert is a reliable, considerate and engaged supervisor, and team member; as well as active volunteer for events that further the agency’s Foundation.

David Ripple was awarded The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence’s Kathy Hill Individual of the Year Award. Ripple lives in an agency residence in Jefferson County. He is a considerate friend who checks in with people daily to ensure that they are happy and healthy. Ripple is a joyful person who loves to joke around and advocates to participate in activities that are meaningful while helping others.

The Self-Advocate of the Year Award was given to Bonnie Thurber for her volunteerism through the Norwood Day Habilitation program. She regularly collects donations for the Human Society and knits blankets to keep the cats warm. Thurber is committed to helping others and enjoys making cards for the Office for the Aging, so that older people get notes to brighten their days. She has a good understanding of her rights and is eager to continuing learning.

The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence Community Spirit Award was presented to Potsdam Elks Lodge #2074 in recognition of their long-standing sponsorship and support of activities at the Lodge at Dodge Pond, Autism Acceptance Walks, and the Bridges program.

The Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence provides lifelong opportunities that enhance the lives of people, so that they may achieve their goals and aspirations. To learn more, visit www.thearcjslc.org or find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.