At the School’s Caribbean-themed celebratory recognition event on June 7, Jen Kitajo received the Mary Grembowski Staff Recognition Award for her 14 years of service at the School of Social Work, nearly five of which have been with Partners for Our Children. “Jennifer has not only excelled in her position, she has truly made our work environment better—whether it’s always working with a smile or keeping the wheels turning in the office, she is an absolute joy to work with,” commented POC executive director Ben de Haan.
Jen is known for routinely going beyond her daily duties to welcome new employees and contractors, ensuring they have all the tools needed to do their jobs. She has also served on the School’s auction committee for the last three years, which helps to grow the student scholarship fund. She has also been instrumental in helping to launch POC pilot programs, such as Strive, by working around the clock to make sure the parenting curriculum was error-free and ready for delivery to families participating in court-ordered parent-child visitations.
“Jennifer embodies many of the School of Social Work and UW traits,” concludes de Haan, “but above all else she provides superior service, exhibits exceptional resourcefulness and integrity in work relationships and interactions.”