Excellence is a key component of Silver Maples’ mission! LeadingAge Michigan recently honored Julie Deppner and Samantha Stephens from Silver Maples of Chelsea at the 2019 Annual Awards Gala on Tuesday, May 21st at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo.
Each year, LeadingAge Michigan honors individuals who embody excellence in leadership, care, and service innovation in the field of senior living. Award winners were nominated by their peers and selected by an esteemed group of committee members among many nominations across the state. Over 300 people gathered to celebrate the elite group of 27 award winners and recognize their collective achievements.
Julie Deppner, Executive Director and CEO received the Leadership In Action award which recognizes an individual whose actions and leadership have greatly enhanced the work environment in their organizations, as well as the quality of life for the residents and clients they serve. The award recipient consistently provides strong leadership to the staff and community.
Julie joined Silver Maples of Chelsea in 2016. Her journey to senior services was unique, as she previously worked in the Chelsea School District as a teacher, high school principal and Assistant Superintendent. She is a long-time resident of the area and is actively involved in a number of community organizations including Chelsea Rotary Club, the Chelsea 2030 Visioning Team, and the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce, where she is currently the Vice Chair. “Julie is immersed in the community at Silver Maples and the community at large, and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and passion for the field,” says Sally DeVol, board chair at Silver Maples. “This award recognizes Julie’s ability to lead, motivate and achieve.” Her recent accomplishments include the development of a new mission and vision statement for the organization and her tireless work and leadership in the completion of a much anticipated million-dollar kitchen expansion. She has truly changed the culture of the community, improved all levels of communication, and brought better service and care to the residents her team serves!
Samantha Stephens received the Shining Star award which recognizes a gifted aging services professional who has consistently demonstrated dedication, commitment and enthusiasm in his or her profession, and has made a significant impact upon the lives of older adults. Additionally, they have demonstrated excellence in management of personnel, systems or customer service.
In 2016, Samantha joined Silver Maples of Chelsea as the Social Services Coordinator. Since her start, she has brought an extraordinary amount of compassion and wisdom to her position and works collaboratively with internal departments and community agencies to ensure that residents receive optimal services and support when they are most in need. Under her leadership, the Personal Assistance Program has expanded to serve more residents than ever before, while remaining fiscally sound. “Residents know that they can rely on Samantha and her team for a variety of social service needs,” says Julie Deppner, Executive Director and CEO. “She does not shy away from tough conversations, but does so with the utmost respect for the people she serves. Samantha is a natural leader and networker, and is constantly looking for ways to connect residents to the greater community.”
To learn more about the 2019 Awards Gala and other award honorees, visit the 2019 Awards Gala Program.
