January TAC Awards Luncheon Celebrates Excellence, Creativity, and Longstanding Commitment Across Arc Mercer
- Sam Stolz
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Arc Mercer’s Team Atmosphere Committee (TAC) hosted its January 2026 Awards Luncheon on Friday, January 23, recognizing outstanding employees, celebrating personal growth, and honoring years of dedicated service across the agency.
The luncheon brought staff together to reflect on the meaningful contributions that strengthen Arc Mercer’s mission and workplace culture.
Rising Star of the Month: Kevin Pearce
One of our residents, Kevin Pearce, was recognized as the December 2025 Rising Star of the Month for his enthusiasm, creativity, and growing technical expertise over at our Campus Day Program. Kevin has shown a strong passion for audio-visual production, actively learning to operate lighting, microphones, and video cameras while also contributing to the creative editing process.
Kevin is widely recognized across the agency for his creativity and for writing the Campus Day Program’s hit short film, Love Wars.
Nominated by Jack Dempsey, Audio-Visual Manager, Kevin was praised for offering thoughtful suggestions for graphics and music that elevate each production. His curiosity, dedication to learning, and willingness to contribute creatively have made a noticeable impact on the Campus Day Program’s media efforts.
Kevin received a signed and framed certificate, a congratulatory balloon, and a $100 gift card in recognition of his achievements.
Employee of the Month: Ciera Kriegner
Ciera Kriegner, Site Supervisor in the Janitorial program, was honored as the December 2025 Employee of the Month for her professionalism, initiative, and positive leadership.
Nominated by Kathy Rhead, Administrator of the Day Program, Ciera was recognized for her consistently upbeat attitude, responsiveness, and readiness to assist staff whenever needed. Since transitioning into her supervisory role, she has demonstrated exceptional initiative and adaptability, requiring minimal direction while maintaining high standards of service and support.
“...I feel seen, I feel heard, and I feel appreciated.” Said Ciera when talking about her time here at the Arc Mercer.
“She’s amazing, and we are so grateful that you are a part of our team, and we love having you there everyday” Said Day Program Administrator, and nominator, Kathy Rhead.
As Employee of the Month, Ciera earned a signed and framed certificate and a $250 gift card.
Both award winners Kevin and Ciera will each be one of 12 individuals eligible to win employee or rising star of the year awards at our annual Fall Gala.
Celebrating Work Anniversaries
The luncheon also honored several staff members for milestone work anniversaries, recognizing years of commitment and service to Arc Mercer:
Kim Wolfe, DSP at Alice, was celebrated for 35 years of service. Kim previously served 30 years in Residential before a brief retirement in 2020, later returning to continue her dedicated work. She received a customized Arc Mercer plaque, a happy anniversary balloon, and a $450 gift card.
Monica Mitchell-Taylor, DSP Part Time at Vanderveer, was recognized for 25 years of service, receiving a customized plaque, anniversary balloon, and a $350 gift card.
Each anniversary honoree represents the longevity, experience, and dedication that continue to support individuals and programs across the agency.
The January TAC Awards Luncheon highlighted the talent, commitment, and teamwork found throughout Arc Mercer.
Through monthly recognition events like this, the Team Atmosphere Committee continues to foster appreciation, celebrate achievements, and reinforce a culture where staff contributions at every level are valued and recognized.
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