On December 14th, 2024, we had the pleasure of celebrating our 35th Annual Awards and Recognition Banquet. The evening was filled with celebration, reflection, and inspiration, bringing together employees, partners, and supporters to honor a successful year and recognize those who contribute to our mission of empowering people who are blind or visually impaired.
A Warm Welcome and Recognition
The evening began with a lively cocktail reception, with entertainment provided by Chris and Lori Brown of the band Bass & Brown. Our President and CEO, Ken Fernald, and Keith Jamba, the newly appointed Chair of the Board of Directors, welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude for the dedication of our board members, employees, and partners who have helped AVRE thrive this past year. Special thanks were extended to Bass & Brown for setting the festive tone for the evening.
Keynote Speaker: Scott Thornhill
We were honored to host Scott Thornhill, Executive Director of the American Council of the Blind (ACB), as our keynote speaker. Scott shared his personal story of perseverance and dedication, inspiring us with his journey navigating life with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) - a condition that gradually leads to blindness. Despite his diagnosis, Scott’s optimism, drive, and commitment to advocating for the visually impaired have led him to a remarkable career spanning leadership roles in advocacy, public policy, and business.
His compelling speech underscored the importance of creating opportunities and breaking down barriers so that everyone, regardless of physical, mental, or emotional challenges, can achieve their full potential.
Welcoming Our New Employees
We were excited to introduce our newest team members and welcome them to the AVRE family:
Allyson Hedlund
Jean Coons
Jordan Corbin
Kyle Barton
Michele Finkel
Wandy Nosius
Honoring Years of Service
We also recognized the dedication of employees who reached significant milestones in their careers with AVRE:
Five Years of Service
LaRena McComus
Michelle Spicer
Ten Years of Service
Amanda Elam
Mark Foster
Steven Casado
Fifteen Years of Service
Dan Davis
Esmin Mujcic
Jim Lampman
John Ellzey
Nancy Valano
Award Recipients
Outstanding Community Partner Award:
Chris Maxwell - Johnson City Liquor & Wine
Amy J. Lateer Award:
Annie van der Wal
NYSPSP Employee of the Year:
Kevin Snow
Melvin Rhinebeck Employee of the Year:
Chris Stone
Melvin L. Rosendale Employee of the Year:
Oleksandr Onikiienko
Looking Ahead
The banquet was not just a celebration of achievements but also a reminder of the impactful work we do at AVRE. Inspired by Scott Thornhill’s story and the dedication of our employees and partners, we look forward to continuing our mission to improve the lives of those who are blind or visually impaired.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the evening. Here’s to another year of creating opportunities for success and independence for those who are blind or visually impaired.
Photo Album
Relive the highlights of the evening! Check out the photo album below to see all the special moments captured during the banquet.
