Goodwill hosted our 45th Annual Awards Banquet on Wednesday, April 6th at the Hilton Knoxville, where 11 extraordinary clients and community partners were recognized for their outstanding dedication in 2015. The banquet, hosted by Bob Kesling, Voice of the Vols, serves as an important tool in highlighting the successes of Goodwill's clients, and publicly recognizing their achievements.
This year's event was attended by 155 individuals, including representatives from Mayor Madeline Rogero's office and the office of Senator Lamar Alexander. Videos were presented to introduce each award winner and plaques and certificates were presented on behalf of Goodwill and government officials. See the videos above.
Goodwill's mission is to provide vocational services and employment opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. In 2015, Goodwill served over 4,100 individuals in their 15-county service area. While there are thousands of individuals deserving of recognition for their commitment to their employment, we were honored to have the chance to recognize a few at this event.
Front Row, left to right: Daphanie Scott, Heather Newcomb, Charlie Welch, Anna Grace Burgin, Katelin Smith, Julie Switzer. Back Row, left to right: Kelly Brennan and Paul Jordan representing the Hilton Knoxville, Richard Gaddis, Kasey Kegley and Matt Peeples representing The Point, Theron Strickland representing Tennessee School for the Deaf.
2015 Goodwill Award Winners
Employee of the Year
Anna Grace Burgin
Employer of the Year
Marshalls
Most Improved Client of the Year
Heather Newcomb
Skills Training Client of the Year
Richard Gaddis
GoodGuides Mentee of the Year
Katelin Smith
GoodGuides Mentor of the Year
Julie Switzer
Careers in Retail Initiative
Client of the Year
Daphanie Scott
Careers in Retail Initiative
Employer of the Year
Hilton Knoxville
Careers in Retail Initiative
Community Partner of the Year
The Point
Recognition of Outstanding Performance from the Community Rehabilitation Agencies of Tennessee
Charlie Welch
Recognition of Outstanding Performance and Dedication to Transition Services
Tennessee School for the Deaf
Congratulation to all award winners on their accomplishments and achievements. We are very proud of you!