As the season winds down, camp is winterized and programs wrap up for the year, Sierra Nevada Journeys celebrates all the wonderful accomplishments achieved over the past year.
“While we still faced some challenges with the pandemic, our team has been exceptionally diligent in delivering and supporting programs for students. After a year of distance learning, isolation and learning loss, students needed our programs and time in the outdoors more than ever. I’m very proud of all the great work we’ve achieved and I’m honored to recognize six employees who have made a genuine difference,” said Sean Hill, CEO, Sierra Nevada Journeys.
On November 10, 2022, Sierra Nevada Journeys celebrated its seventh annual employee awards event honoring team members who exemplify our core values and went above and beyond in their commitment to serving students and customers. The following employees are recognized for their outstanding contributions. We thank you for your dedication and hard work.
See pictures below of awardees being presented awards by their managers.
Victorina Arvelo, Core Educator
Pictured: Victorina Arvelo, Core Educator and Corrie Calderon, Program Director
Victorina is an outstanding educator, a friendly and supportive coworker, and an asset in promoting equity and inclusion in our programs. She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Spanish-speaking community by frequently translating internal documents and communications, translating and creating numerous new program materials, and teaching several programs entirely in Spanish at schools with language immersion programs. Based on teacher feedback, the experience of having Victorina teach their classes in students’ native language resulted in students being much more engaged in science curricula and empowered in their identities.
Pictured: Kyle Burke, Kitchen Manager and Elda Perez Amaya, Kitchen Cook
Elda Perez Amaya, Kitchen Cook
Elda is recognized for her commitment to excellence and her loyalty to Sierra Nevada Journeys.
During the 2022 season, the kitchen went through big changes. Elda stepped up to take on more responsibilities and remained committed to our service of students and staff — all while implementing our mission to serve others. When times are challenging, people either quit or rise as leaders. Elda chose to rise and be a leader.
Spencer Bocks, Outdoor Program Instructor
Spencer has the ability to create rapport with participants of seemingly any age or background. He seamlessly transitions from school groups to community groups to camp and back with ease. The quality of the experiences Spencer facilitates for students, has been top tier. He strives daily to create that for every group.
Pictured: Spencer Bocks, Outdoor Program Instructor and Andy Stephens, Program Director
Pictured: Anna Moragne, Lead Outdoor Program Instructor and Krissy McGill, Residential Director of Education
Anna Moragne, Lead Outdoor Program Instructor
Anna stepped into the Lead Outdoor Program Instructor role late in the season and absolutely knocked it out of the park. Her gentle leadership is calm, yet palpable and she strives to think ahead in all aspects of programming to support staff and students.
Pictured: Alyssa Wagner, Program Director and Amanda Mulholland, Afterschool Coordinator
Amanda Mulholland, Afterschool Coordinator
Amanda always goes above and beyond and embodies Sierra Nevada Journeys’ accountability core value. She always says what she will do and follows through on it. Amanda supports others around her and regularly helps out her colleagues by always volunteering to lend a hand. Amanda is an integral part of Sierra Nevada Journeys and she makes our students feel cared for and is such a wonderful team mate.
Pictured: Kelsey Streeby, Bookkeeper and Ward Fansler, Finance Director
Kelsey Streeby, Bookkeeper
Kelsey has been Wonder Woman when it comes to supporting the grant reimbursement reporting that have included hundreds and hundreds of supporting documents downloaded and cross-referenced to the general ledger. During the staff transition in Advancement, she took on data input in the donor database, preparing thank you letters and other organization functions to help the fundraising process. Kelsey is never without a helping hand whenever there is something to be done, like taking it upon herself to make sure breakfast was available to Alyssa’s team cleaning out the basement storage in Reno one early morning. She is very skilled at working with vendors and staff to solve problems and provide and get answers. We are grateful she chose Sierra Nevada Journeys to share her talents and enthusiasm!
