Celebrating Staff Excellence at Inaugural Spring Awards

Mary Jo Carter-Codling, left, and Gail Carter, right, present Jeffrey Morris with the inaugural Mark Carter Award.

Employees from St. Joseph's Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers, North Country Freedom Homes, Citizen Advocates, Harison Place and the Fieldstone Foundation came together on Thursday, May 22, for the inaugural Spring Awards Ceremony—an event dedicated to honoring those who go above and beyond in service to their communities. Held at The Adirondack Room at Mo's Pub & Grill in Malone, the celebration recognized 14 outstanding individuals and one exceptional team whose dedication is making a difference across Northern New York.

“From Saranac Lake to Watertown, we gathered in Malone to celebrate the heart of our network—our people,” said Kati Jock, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “These honorees are more than just employees. They are healers, problem-solvers, advocates and caregivers—each one playing a vital role in transforming lives and strengthening communities.”

The awards process sparked overwhelming interest across the network's organizations when announced this spring. A total of 125 nominations were submitted, showcasing the exceptional dedication and talent of the workforce, and reflecting the deep mutual respect and appreciation shared among colleagues throughout the network.

The ceremony highlighted staff members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the network's shared mission of providing accessible care and supports that promote individual health throughout the region. Excellence was recognized across six different categories:

Mark Carter Award

Jeffrey Morris, Director of Community Living at Citizen Advocates and a 39-year veteran of the organization, received this prestigious honor named for Citizen Advocates’ longtime residential services director. Mr. Morris was recognized for his unwavering advocacy and respect for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. One nomination praised him for consistently going “above and beyond to ensure that the needs of the individuals under his care are met” and treating the people Citizen Advocates serves “as persons and not as clients."

The ceremony was made especially meaningful by the attendance of Mark Carter's widow, Mary Jo Carter-Codling—who also worked alongside Mr. Morris for decades—and Mr. Carter’s mother, Gail Carter. Both were on hand to congratulate Mr. Morris and celebrate Mr. Carter’s enduring legacy.

Father Carmen Giuliano Award

Aaron Smith, Spiritual Health Coordinator for St. Joseph's Inpatient Program, was honored for embodying the legacy of Father Carmen Giuliano—founder of St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers—whose life was defined by service, faith, compassion and advocacy. Mr. Smith, who has served with St. Joseph’s for five years, was described by one nomination as “soft-spoken, compassionate and humble,” with “a calm and approachable demeanor, combined with his deep sense of spiritual integrity.”

Commitment to Excellence Award

Amanda Frazier, Heidi Czerepak, Julie Tuper and Lindsay Mozdzier.

Team Player Award

Kamie O'Connor, Tampa Mallory, Kayla Curtis and Brittany Shantie.

Mentorship Excellence Award

Donna Wahlert, Jill Richards, Renee Robinson and Anastasia Przybyla.

Most Supportive Team Award

North Country Freedom Homes.

By recognizing excellence within their ranks, the organizations reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture that values compassion, innovation, teamwork and leadership.

“Some of our greatest lessons come from the people beside us—mentors, peers, direct reports,” said Chief of Staff Jennifer Dishaw in her closing remarks. “These are the people who challenge us, encourage us and remind us of what’s possible when we show up for one another every day.”

For those interested in joining the award-winning teams at St. Joseph's Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers, North Country Freedom Homes or Citizen Advocates, visit stjoestreatment.org/careers or citizenadvocates.net/careers to explore current opportunities.