Yearly Awards

2024 Employee of the Year Nominees

2024 – 1st Quarter Individual Award Winners

Award Recipient: Roger McDuffa

I would like to take this opportunity to nominate a team member who I feel would fit in all 7 categories for the gold star performance. He had an enormous task of replacing a legend in golf maintenance. He is always the first one at the facility and plans each day trying to make his golf course better than the day before. His knowledge of his field and resume are beyond reproach. He is truly respectful to his superiors, his peers, and to his subordinates. He has established a solid working relationship throughout the park district. The golfing community knows and admires his work ethic. He is not a man that seeks out the "limelight", but I believe is truly deserving of this award. I respectfully nominate Roger McDuffa for the Gold Star performance award.

Award Recipient: Shae Morelock

Shae has gone above and beyond the expectations of her role at Atwood and Alpine Hills. Although busy adjusting to her new role as Operations Coordinator, she has continued to help staff with a positive, kind attitude. Shae works extremely hard at improving Atwood and Alpine Hills by organizing and updating materials to improve both buildings' efficiency including new manuals covering everything new staff would need to know. Each day Shae comes to work with a smile and positive energy that is contagious to those around her. Shae demonstrates the importance of the One Team, One Goal mentality through being inclusive to all employees, participants, and parents alike during programs like Nature Quest Fall Edition and Yeti Camp to make them as successful as possible.

During her first winter season as a full-time employee, Shae took on a great deal of responsibility with her new involvement in the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition and the opening of the Snow Park at Alpine Hills while the ORE team was down multiple supervisors. This was all while making sure program forms were being put together and submitted in a timely manner. She was focused on making sure staff had support, and that operations were on track despite such tough conditions. Shae is a wonderful nominee for this award due to her hard work, dedication, and motivation to see the most in programs and fellow RPD staff.

Award Recipient: Bailey Beard

Despite his normal duties as a supervisor for aquatics, Bailey dove headfirst into new responsibilities in the ORE department to help with The Snow Park at Alpine Hills. With a calm and cool mindset, the whole department quickly warmed up to him and we were able to have a successful snow park season. During his time here, he not only assisted with the day to day operations of the program, but also helped to navigate waves of applicants for the Lead

Instructor position, and was a huge help in training new staff to operate the surface lift and run the hill. Bailey also made a splash by coming in to help paint the office and lobby of the Alpine Hills clubhouse! He is never one to fish for compliments, but during a season where we may have been left treading water, Bailey had everything we needed to go for gold!

Award Recipient: Kellie Olivencia

This employee works year-round to make the Park District the best it can be, but she especially shines during the annual Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition. Her composure, demeanor and professionalism (as well as her whimsy!) are the perfect combination for an event so important to our community.

This year, like most, Mother Nature was in control and that made it difficult to know whether to keep with the scheduled date or postpone for 2 weeks. It was touch and go, but the decision to keep it where it was worked out for the best, as 2 weeks later, the weather was sunny and in the 50’s – Lovely for January, but not for snow sculpting!

She communicates so well with the sculptors, sponsors, volunteers and especially her staff that the process appears seamless. There may be rocky moments, but she knows how to smooth them out. It is because of her innate ability to shine during uncertain circumstances, I nominate Kellie Olivencia for the Employee 1st Quarter award, 2024.

2024 – 2nd Quarter Individual Award Winners

Award Recipient: Easton Demus

This recipient joined the parks team back in December as the new athletic field’s maintenance technician 3. Since then, he has hit the ground running and has been a great asset to the parks team. He is always willing to lend a hand to his coworkers, whatever the job may be. He has not only learned and dived right into his new job, but he successfully had all park ball diamonds in playable condition before the spring of the year. He obtained his pesticide applicators license, class c cdl, and the wild land fire training s130/s190 certification all within 5 months. He is reliable, honest, hardworking, and lives the one team one goal motto. We look forward to seeing what else you accomplish in the years to come. Congratulations Easton on a job well done!

Award Recipient: Elizabeth Richardson-Davis

She is the party hostess that everyone loves! I held my son’s birthday party at Sapora Playworld and have attended many of his friends’ parties there and if you need anything, she is there for you. She is calm and makes things happen, which is exactly what you need as a frantic mom trying to make the party of the year happen. She tells you not to worry about a thing and that she has it all covered. She tells you it's her job to make sure that all your needs are met. She tells you that it's her pleasure to provide a cart to help you in and out of the building. She tells you to make a mess and don't worry about it, it is her mess to clean up and she loves it. She tells you to leave the balloons and she will pop them all as she has perfected a way to make it quieter so nobody else is scared. The recipient provided great customer service to me and all the other families she works with and what I am impressed the most with is she is consistent. Every interaction is the same and everyone is treated with respect. Outstanding job Elizabeth!

Award Recipient: Mila Reed

She is always on top of her job, going above and beyond, super creative, timely, and does way more around Lockwood than people know she does. She is a great team player, always helping when needed. She puts in the work to do the smallest details to make sure an activity or event is going to run smoothly prior to it happening. She stepped into her new role at Lockwood and has been a rock star. She's efficient, organized, and great at communicating with all the staff involved in the programs. She always has great ideas and is great at implementing them! She's a joy to work with, and I'm so grateful to be her partner during camp this year. This recipient is very kind and always gets things done. She makes new employees feel welcome and at home. Well done, Mila!

Award Recipient: Christian Traff

Have you ever wondered how we could possibly do that task, that seems impossible or very challenging? Or maybe something more down to earth like, I would really like to get some new snow sculpture boxes made, but that would be quite the undertaking. How about hanging some nets at the Aldeen Practice Center at the top of a very high manlift. There is also that weird task of coming back late at night (for a maintenance person) to aim some lights for the music in the park. What about the monumental task of taking down some condemned bleachers, saving the district $40,000? He regularly gets asked to help with oddball tasks that he willingly says yes to. He is skilled in so many ways but does not ever want the limelight or the recognition for his skill. He is always willing to help in any way needed, and usually knows the best way to do it! Moreover, he puts up with Chet Parker on the regular, which should be enough to get an award. For his great attitude and wealth of knowledge, he deserves this award! Congratulations Christiam Traff!

2024 – 3rd Quarter Individual Award Winners

Award Recipient: Casey Knaack

Casey has built such incredible relationships with the kids at camp. She consistently went above and beyond to ensure their camp days were fun and exciting. Not only did she keep her group's area clean, but she also took it upon herself to tidy up other group leaders' areas as well. In a challenging situation where her actions could have been misinterpreted, Casey chose to protect the kids, even when it meant risking her reputation. Despite facing these challenges, she remained positive, kept a smile on her face, and continued engaging the campers in fun activities. Anyone observing her at work would quickly see how amazing she is with the kids. I was fortunate to be her group leader partner, and I can confidently say that Casey is detail-oriented, organized, compassionate, and possesses more integrity than anyone I’ve ever met. She truly deserves the Gold Star Performance recognition—not just for this summer, but for last summer and for every future summer she spends with the Rockford Park District.

Award Recipient: Neil Lind

Plants, like kids, grow to their full potential when they have deep, rich ground to nourish them and help their roots grow strong. At Lewis Lemon Community Center, dry shade from large trees and hard, heavy clay soil made growing anything, let alone the berries and veggies kids love, extremely difficult. We knew amending the soil would be a huge job. When I asked Neil Lind, it was the same answer as always, "sure!" Neil carted in compost and tilled it in to make soil the kids can not only enjoy digging in but can grow veggies in! Whether it's spraying pathways between garden beds, providing amendments, or adding soil to beds, Neil is always there for us when we need a helping hand, and he knows the value of having a garden for kids to dig and grow!

Award Recipient: Jordan McDonald

I am nominating this individual for Quarterly Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions as the Culture and Engagement Manager. His dedication to fostering a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and belonging workplace is truly commendable and has made an impact on the Rockford Park District. As the leader of the DEIB committee, Jordan has taken steps to ensure that every voice is heard. He has organized and facilitated safe spaces for open dialogue and encouraging team members to share their experiences and perspectives on equity. This approach not only builds trust but also fosters a sense of community within our organization. Also, Jordan has been instrumental in guiding members of the DEIB committee toward self-awareness regarding their perspectives on equity. Along with Jessica Oladapo, he has empowered his colleagues to reflect on their own biases and develop a deeper understanding of inclusive practices. Jordan's contributions have inspired us to strive for continuous improvement and inclusivity.

2024 – 4th Quarter Individual Award Winners

Award Recipient: Tasha Newsome

Tasha has consistently exceeded her goals and expectations, making remarkable contributions to the overall experience of new clients in the WPCC summer program, Live at Levings, and El Domingo en El Parque. She approaches challenges with a calm and level-headed demeanor, demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills, professionalism, competence, and accountability. Tasha's dedication and positive attitude are truly inspiring, motivating those around her to strive for excellence.

Award Recipient: MC Barton

MC Barton has been instrumental in the success of the Rockford Wolves, the first Jr. Tackle football program at the Rockford Park District. Over the past three years, MC has grown the program significantly, increasing team sizes from 15-16 participants to over 30 per team, a remarkable achievement. His mentorship extends far beyond the field, emphasizing the importance of academics and reminding players that they are student-athletes first.

MC’s dedication was especially evident on October 7, 2024, when a Rockford Wolves participant broke his leg at practice. MC personally carried the injured player to his parents’ vehicle and met the family at the hospital that evening and the next morning. The following night, he brought a card signed by the team and balloons to the hospital, showing the player that the Wolves are more than a team—they are a family that stands by one another.

Beyond football, MC has made a meaningful impact through the Levings Lakers program, where he teaches participants—some of whom are his players—skills like fishing, building birdhouses, painting, and more. By encouraging these young athletes to explore interests beyond sports, he fosters well-rounded growth. Under his guidance, participation in this program has grown from 8-10 to 25-30 participants per session. MC’s dedication, compassion, and leadership continue to leave a legacy in the lives of those mentors.

Award Recipient: Chet Parker

Chet Parker has been instrumental in coordinating volunteer groups to support facility upkeep, playground builds, and community-building initiatives. He handles everything from prep calls to identifying tasks and managing events, knowing the value of engaging community volunteers even when it adds complexity to his role. By doing so, he creates "Park Champions," one volunteer at a time.

Chet’s leadership was key in helping the Young Professionals Network of the Northwest Illinois Alliance of Realtors identify impactful projects. Their efforts included spreading mulch at Washington Park Community Center, building the playground at Haight Park, and contributing a $10,000 donation to the park. Chet ensures volunteer experiences are both fun and fulfilling, fostering a network of ambassadors who advocate for the Park District throughout the community.

Award Recipient: Rebecca Jecklin

I am honored to nominate Mrs. Rebecca “Becky” Jecklin, a woman who has dedicated herself to creating environments of inclusion and belonging. Becky knows the name of every child she meets, greeting both participants and staff daily with a warm hug. She listens to every story and remembers to follow up, making the community center feel like a home for everyone who walks through its doors.

Becky’s impact on the Inclusion and Washington Park teams is monumental. Always willing to lend a hand, she has built strong relationships with every participant, showing what it truly means to embody not just inclusion but the spirit of the Park District as a whole. Her heart and passion are evident in everything she does, creating a sense of connection and inspiration wherever she goes. Because of Becky, engagement and day-to-day inclusion have increased—not only for participants receiving services but for everyone involved.

When I asked others about Becky, here’s what they shared:

· “Ms. Becky is so nice and funny and gives the best hugs.” – Aamere (participant)

· “Ms. Becky makes everyone feel welcome every time she walks in, and she always gives everyone a hug who needs it.” – Chris (staff)

· “She’s just so kind and respectful to everyone. She’ll always tell us good job and that we’re awesome.” – Natalie (participant)

· “She is outstanding. She always offers a helping hand, and she’s like a stand-in mom or grandma for a lot of us.” – Cece (staff)

· “Ms. Becky is an amazing team player and makes sure that every staff and participant feels a sense of welcome and belonging. Everyone needs a Ms. Becky in their lives, and I’m so glad we all do.” – Stephan (coordinator)

The compliments could go on for hours. Becky’s impact is felt in every facility, program, and park she touches, leaving a legacy of kindness, inclusion, and belonging. Simply put, everyone needs a “Ms. Becky,” and we are so lucky to have her.

2024 Team of the Year Nominees

2024 – 1st Quarter Team Winners

Award Recipients: Paula Rieter and Mariah Anast

In the past few years, I have gained much experience and knowledge working on the front lines and "behind the scenes." Being on the frontline involves various things, including the registration process. However, to fully appreciate the programming process requires an understanding of how much time, effort, and creativity goes into the preparation of each program.

The planning process for over 20 Be-Social Programs, the Edible Creations, the Be Artsy Programs, and the All-Hands-on Deck programs is greatly underestimated. Working "behind the scenes," I have a greater understanding and appreciation of the work that goes into the planning and preparation of each activity.

It is one thing to keep our customers engaged within our programs; however, building relationships with them is another, which keeps the programs thriving and keeps our customers coming back. Each season, our customers look forward to the guidebook coming out so that they can see what's coming up next, and every season, there's something new, something different, something more delightful they can enjoy. There are some programs that I want to do after reading the descriptions.

These two individuals have mastered their talents. They have been able to share them throughout our community as they demonstrate their patience, compassion, and flexibility. Their programming and interactions with staff and customers show commitment, organization, understanding, support, and dedication. In this environment, everyone is supported and empowered to enjoy life. For this reason, I nominate Paula Rieter and Mariah Anast for the 1st Quarter Gold Star Award.

2024 – 2nd Quarter Team Winners

Award Recipients: Selena William, Dianne Manning, Mark Lambert, Kelsey Roger, Atysiash Thomas, Shakeya Horton

This team started off with only three staff and two teachers. Then we eventually got two more awesome workers and they stepped up and started to find work for the students. Atyshiah Thomas came with stronger skills and stepped up her game. Ms. Dianne, being the quiet, but strong group leader, started to do more than ever. Kelsey was a strong leader. The students thought she was their size but did understand, she would stand her ground and be a wonderful group leader that knew how to find work for them and games and allowed them to have fun. Shakeya would come up with craft ideas without anyone asking her. Mr. Mark would tutor students and teach them to act, dance, math, reading, and how to draw and put on some awesome shows with all the students. If you want to say the Park district was a team this group of staff, they made the word team come alive. I'm so proud of our staff and myself. One team, one goal is what we all did. No one complained, just made everything better. This team started off not knowing each other, they got thrown in and made it work. I say hats off to this team. Students learned a lot this season and they enjoyed coming to after school, because of the staff. I have worked with the park district for years and I will say this team did above and beyond and never gave up. My boss gave me a book to read and learned a lot from it, I learned how to step back. I allowed the staff to be themselves so they could enjoy their job, students, and parents. We were not just a team, but a family. Congratulations to Selena and the Haskell Team!

Award Recipients: Mike Costello, Haley Varble, Sara Saunders, Camille Blake, Amy McIntyre, and Catie Vernon

This talented team was inspired to find an exceptional, user-friendly app for the Park District. Their dedication to identifying and implementing a solution that meets our customers' needs is worthy of the 2nd quarter performance award.

2024 – 3rd Quarter Team Winners

Award Recipients: Inclusion Coordinator Team- Destini Blakemore, Vincent Cruz, Aidan Finn, Megan Gilfillan, Aulaysha McGhee, Savannah Turen

Each member of this team has excelled in so many ways through their commitment to inclusion and their dedication to supporting their participants and teams. Vinny and Savannah are returning members, and they have continued to model strong leadership and dedication to their teams. Lay, Megan, and Aidan are all new, and they have taken on their roles with confidence and skill and have demonstrated so much development this summer! And they have been led so well by Destini, who puts who gives so much of her time and energy for the sake of the team and the families they provide services to. This team exemplifies the values of the Park District, and I learn so much from working alongside them! They support each other so well and contribute to a culture of teamwork, accountability, and excellence.

Award Recipients: Sinnissippi Team- Joe Cacciatore, Derek Moore, Brandon Moore, Michael Phelps, Logan Traum, and Stu Tyler.

This team delivers time and time again every week of the year from Snow sculpting, Festival of Frights, 16 large Music in The Park concerts, Festival of Lights, 2 playgrounds, multiple shelters rented consistently, facilitating golf playday picnics, Juneteenth celebrations, Domingos and Live@Levings at Sinnissippi programs, weddings and parties and the list of major community events and impact goes on! This team led by Michael Phelps is a nonstop working machine that is always friendly, supportive and productive, making hosting these programs and events much easier and impactful. Thank you for the nonstop hard work and positive attitude, we are grateful and recognize all that you do every day!

2024 – 4th Quarter Team Winners

Award Recipients: Buddy Soccer Team with TR: Shannon Schumacher, Tim Bragg Jr. Natalya Starks, Rebecca Rankins, Sarah Knodle, Jordyn Eggert, Xavier Abou Arraj

The Buddy Soccer team has gone above and beyond to support kids and adults participating in the program. Despite schedule adjustments and field location changes, the team worked tirelessly to help participants adapt with ease. This year, with roughly 50% of participants being new, the staff prioritized creating a welcoming and inclusive environment by building positive relationships and ensuring everyone felt comfortable and valued. Through their efforts, participants have not only improved their soccer skills but also enhanced their teamwork and social skills. The program continues to be a space where growth, connection, and fun thrive, thanks to the dedication of the Buddy Soccer team.

Award Recipients: Sportscore 1- Julie Tudor, Taylor Coffman, Samantha Aguilar, Raul Alonso, Tahany Castelan, Stephen Cubberly, Elizabeth Gonzalez, Mariah Massey, Lauren Parada, Jack Reifstack, Daneysha Sanatana-Hernandez, Brandon Sibounheauang, and Isabell Perez:

The Food and Beverage Team at Mercyhealth Sportscore 1 has once again delivered an exceptional performance in 2024, achieving their third consecutive year of increased revenue and profit—even in the face of challenges like spring flooding that resulted in the loss of multiple tournaments and league nights. Their rollout of a new soccer center menu has added an average of $1,000 in weekend revenue compared to 2023, setting the stage for continued growth in 2025.

This dedicated group grossed over $250,000 in concessions, significantly closing the cost recovery gap essential for Sportscore 1’s role in the sports tourism industry. They ensure seamless service, often starting as early as 7 a.m. and working well past 10 p.m., despite operating in close quarters that frequently exceed 100 degrees. Their consistent professionalism, punctuality, and positivity creates a welcoming experience for thousands of soccer and softball players annually.

The team goes above and beyond, managing staff training, safe food handling and Bassett certifications, and developing checklists and protocols to enhance efficiency, quality, and customer service. They have fostered a culture of camaraderie, unity, and excellence, where everyone feels valued. Whether managing non-stop lines during tournaments or serving local league players during the week, they never miss a beat.

Their commitment extends beyond Sportscore 1, frequently stepping up to support other facilities such as Music in the Park, Sportscore 2, Riverview IceHouse, and UW Health Sports Factory. Truly embodying “One Team, One Goal,” the Food and Beverage Team at Sportscore 1 is indispensable to its success and a model of dedication and teamwork.