Each month, two Catholic Charities of St. Louis Federation employees nominated by their peers are recognized for exemplifying Personal Excellence, a Spirit of Servant Leadership, and the Catholic Charities Mission. The honorees for July 2019 are…

Saint Martha’s Hall Program Director Michelle Rhode

Michelle has been a relentless advocate for the women and children served by Saint Martha’s for nearly twenty years. She has an intuitive sense of other’s needs and is always looking to provide support, whether this means being the first to take on task to lighten the burden on her coworkers or lending a friendly ear to a client in need.
Not only does Michelle take on additional work but she surpasses all expectations. “Michelle sets the bar in the Federation Quality Improvement committee,” said CCSTL Chief Quality Officer Gayle Shank. Her nominator compared her to Saint Martha herself, humbly doing her work, not for the acclaim, but for the joy of service.

Good Shepherd Children & Family Services Executive Assistant Jessie Rowland

Jessie is well-known around Good Shepherd for her compassion for clients and the way she makes everyone who walks through the doors — clients, visitors, staff members and others — feel welcome, important, and respected.
“There are a lot of things going on here everyday,” said a nominator. “Jessie is able to keep track of them all and manage it with a smile. We love Jessie and wouldn’t be able to do the work we do without her.”