Recognition Category: Compassion
Why: Mrs. Linda was the face that greeted me when I came to UMYH for the very first time in 2022 for my interview, and she is the face I continue to look forward to seeing every single morning that I come into the office & every evening when I leave. She is the warm smile, bright eyes, and motherly presence not just to all staff, guests, and visitors that enter the building each day—but, most importantly—to our kids who are in and out the door for appointments, therapy, truancy meetings, progress updates, etc. She makes them feel seen, valued, loved, worthy, and safe.

Mrs. Linda exhibits both the kindness and patience of a saint, and she always has an anecdote, joke, or cute YouTube video to show me that brightens my day when I pass reception. I honestly cannot picture anyone else sitting in that chair and being the face and spokesperson (not to mention guru of all things UMYH knowing every department phone number, staff name and role, functions of our online and phone systems, etc.) of this organization. She is a gem and a treasure, and regardless of how much time passes, I know I will never forget how much she lit up my time serving as Development Officer at UMYH.
Person Giving Kudos (Optional): Laura Brown