Celebrating Our Outstanding Award Winners

December 19, 2025

At Jay Nolan Community Services, we believe in recognizing those who go above and beyond to make a difference. This month, we are proud to celebrate the incredible Jay Nolan staff whose dedication, compassion, and leadership inspire us all.

Key Results Awards:

For one year only as a special celebration in honor of our 50th Anniversary, we gathered nominations from across the organization to honor exceptional Jay Nolan employees in each of our service regions who embody our three key results:

  • Key Result Award #1: Meaningful – 100% of individuals we support will have meaningful lives in the community.
  • Key Result Award #2: Valued – 100% of JNCS employees will feel valued and supported in their role.
  • Key Result Award #3: Leading – JNCS will be a demonstrated leader in providing individualized support for people with developmental and other disabilities.

Along with these categories, we also introduced a special yearly recognition award moving forward:

The Lloyd Nolan Award:

Given to only one recipient each year, the Lloyd Nolan award honors an individual who truly embodies the mission, values, and philosophy of Jay Nolan Community Services. Through dedication, compassion, and integrity, this person exemplifies what it means to champion inclusion, advocate for independence, and row alongside the people we support. Their everyday actions reflect the heart of our organization—empowering individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodiversity to live full, self-directed lives.

They are not just part of the mission of Jay Nolan; they are a living representation of it.

 

Los Angeles Area Winners:

Five male Jay Nolan employees in suits holding awards in front of a balloon arch and a step and repeat banner with the Jay Nolan logo repeated on it.

Key Result #1: Meaningful – Jerry Davis

Despite managing a heavy caseload, Jerry has been there for every person he supports for over 35 years. He has consistently stepped up and lifted others up to live their best lives. Jerry is a shining example of what it takes to be a great job coach; he does everything he can to ensure supported individuals are successful employees and community members.

Key Result #2: Valued – Nam An
Nam An demonstrates unwavering commitment to supporting others in every capacity. Always ready to listen and lend a hand, Nam ensures no one is left behind. With humility and tremendous compassion, Nam uplifts the team and makes it an honor to work alongside them.

Key Result #3: Leading – JR Rapley
JR approaches every individual with empathy and creativity, helping them discover themselves and live meaningfully. A true advocate, JR ensures everyone’s goals are met in empowering ways. His dedication—even in the middle of the night—reflects his deep care and commitment.

The Lloyd Nolan Award: Darren Hawkins
Darren exemplifies our mission by supporting and developing staff with compassion and accountability. He empowers people to achieve the quality of life they choose and shows genuine care for those we serve and their families. Darren’s professionalism and dependability make him an inspiration.

 

Northern California Area Winners: 

Jay Nolan Supervisor Tony Chester posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

Key Result #1: Meaningful – Tony Chester
Tony brings meaning and purpose to everything he does. His person-centered approach transforms lives, from supporting individuals on his caseload to guiding UAA program graduates. Tony’s compassion, strong work ethic, and ability to create an inclusive environment truly embody the spirit of this award.

Jay Nolan Manager Sean McCormack posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

Key Result #2: Valued – Sean McCormack
Sean makes everyone feel appreciated and respected. His willingness to share knowledge, step up when needed, and deliver high-quality work sets him apart. Sean’s accountability, teamwork, and positive attitude make him a role model and a valued member of our team.

Jay Nolan Manager Micaylah Stewart posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

Key Result #3: Leading – Micaylah Stewart:
Micaylah is an extraordinary leader who inspires through kindness, patience, and positivity. She motivates the team to exceed goals, communicates clearly, and solves challenges proactively. Her leadership and strategic vision make a lasting impact and reflect the true spirit of the Leading Award.

 

Kern County Area Winners:

Jay Nolan staff Jose posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

 

Key Result #1: Meaningful – Jose Carrillo-Huerta
Jose is an outstanding DSP who consistently prioritizes the success and independence of the individuals he supports. He creates engaging, personalized activities that help achieve meaningful goals and goes above and beyond to provide accommodations for both the individual and their family. His dedication and advocacy truly embody the mission of Jay Nolan.

Jay Nolan supervisor Rachel posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

Key Result #2: Valued – Rachel Anderson
Rachel goes above and beyond every day as the supervisor of our Lake Isabella office. She engages with staff, families, and those we support with warmth and understanding, making everyone feel comfortable and valued. Rachel provides exceptional guidance and creates an environment where families are excited to begin services.

Jay Nolan staff Amanda posing with the Jay Nolan CEO while holding a Key Results Award trophy.

Key Result #3: Leading – Amanda Turgeon Richardson
Amanda demonstrates leadership every single day. She’s always ready to jump in, problem-solve, and encourage those around her. Amanda brings creativity and innovation to her work, consistently finding new ways to support both her peers and the individuals we serve. Her positivity and ability to uplift the room make her an inspiration to all.

Jay Nolan employees in formal attire holding awards in front of a balloon arch and a step and repeat banner with the Jay Nolan logo repeated on it.

Congratulations and thank you for all that you do!
Each of these individuals embodies our core values and demonstrates what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and excellence. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and grateful for the positive impact they make every day.

Picture of Marina Gavryushkina

Marina Gavryushkina

Marina is the Manager of Communications & Development at Jay Nolan Community Services. Her role includes outreach and spreading awareness of the mission of the organization through storytelling, social media, and other online communications efforts. Marina is a lifelong learner and holds as a Bachelors degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and an Masters degree from Leiden University in the Netherlands.