Grinnell Mutual employees honored
Grinnell Mutual held its second annual Grinnell Mutual Way Awards Bash on April 5, 2024, at its Grinnell, Iowa headquarters.
Two departments and several individuals were honored at the ceremony, which was followed by a party.
The awards were created in 2023 to recognize employee excellence in a variety of areas, each with its own criteria. Nominations for all the awards were submitted by employees. From these, three finalists in each category were chosen by an awards committee; the winners were selected by employee vote.
“The Grinnell Mutual Way Awards events offer a platform to showcase the qualities and hard work of our employees each year,” said Lydia Caraveo, director of employee benefits and the event’s committee chair. “It's wonderful to witness everything coming together on the day of the event, but what's truly special is seeing everyone come together to celebrate being part of the Grinnell Mutual team.”
The 2024 Grinnell Mutual Way Awards Bash winners
Excellence in Leadership: Chris Vest, Claims Manager
An individual who leads a team that consistently delivers results while fostering a positive and collaborative environment and supporting the team beyond just day-to-day tasks
Grinnell Mutual Way (2023): Nicole Chesmore, Assistant Vice President, IT
An individual who goes above and beyond to serve our mutuals, agents, policyholders, and fellow employees
Individual Community Impact: Mike Groves, Lead Product Analyst
An individual who makes a measurable, positive impact within their community
Innovation and Improvement: Direct Claims team
A team that has executed on a strategic initiative, completing a Business Excellence project and achieving the targeted goals with significant results for their division and the company
Larry Jansen Epic Impact: Document Services Team
An individual or team that demonstrates Grinnell Mutual’s core values and whose work makes a large impact on business success; created in honor of late, former Grinnell Mutual President Larry Jansen
Lifetime Achievement: Scott Sharp, Assistant Vice President, Direct Claims
An individual who has been a mentor and coach to many over their years of service at Grinnell Mutual
Rookie: Jim Oliva, Property Claims Adjuster-Inspector
An individual who has a remarkable ability to adjust to a new work environment while demonstrating outstanding enthusiasm and a high level of energy
Synergy: Lydia Caraveo, Employee Benefits Director
An individual or team that creates an environment of belonging and appreciation for everyone, encouraging their team to lean on individuals' strengths and learn from one another
Wellness Ambassador of the Year: Nandhini Venkatswamy, Test Engineer
An individual who is their department’s dedicated Wellness Ambassador, promoting healthy behaviors and encouraging others to participate in wellness events throughout the year