Virtual Shout-Outs: Bulletin # 46
January 8, 2025 – Defence Stories
Winter wonders: Shout-outs that warm the soul
Do you know of a co-worker who deserves a special shout-out or are you looking for a way to recognize someone who has made an impact, big or small? Virtual Shout-Outs are a quick and easy way for you to publicly recognize a colleague, or team of colleagues, for a job well done.
How to submit a virtual shout-out
- Virtual Shout-Outs are collected on an ongoing basis.
- Email your shout-out to the Corporate Awards and Recognition Secretariat.
Submissions should include:
- A brief (max 150 words) description of what the shout-out is for.
- The names and emails of recipients.
- Virtual Shout-Out recipients will be given the option to opt out of having their message displayed on the Maple Leaf and the Defence Team Intranet.
- Submissions can remain anonymous.
Don’t delay! Send a Virtual Shout-Out to your deserving colleagues today!
We would like to give a Virtual Shout-Out to Dawn MacPherson and Capt Yoonjae Kim for volunteering during the ACFO Symposium and FMI PD Week 2024. Both events are for public sector financial management professionals at all stages of their career in Canada.
Both Dawn and Capt Kim were instrumental in explaining the finance career development programs including information, tools, training and courses to develop a financial career in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
The Financial Community Development team would like to extend a big Virtual Shout-Out for volunteering your time.
– The FCD Team
We would like to take a moment to recognize Dr. Akaysha Humniski for all their hard work as acting manager of the Science Integrity Policy, Conduct and Culture (SIPCC) team. The last four months have required them to be incredibly agile as our team dealt with personnel changes in leadership and within the team. In addition to the acting manager position, Akaysha continues to be an active co-investigator on a multi-year research project, supporting the Culture Evolution Strategy. With a people-centred approach, they have shown grace under pressure and a willingness to adapt to ever changing circumstances. They continue to support the team through both the personal and the professional, with a kindness and care that makes everyone feel valued and supported. We appreciate all their time and effort!
– The SIPCC Team, ADM(DRDC)
I would like to recognize the staff at the 1 PPCLI Battalion Orderly Room, with half of the Battalion deployed in two different locations during this fiscal year. The reduced staff were able to administrative vital paperwork from tour administration, promotions, solving Guardian issues, and maintaining the extra administrative tasks with rear party. This BNOR has become the backbone of the Battalion and has strived for excellence in all factors. Without their due diligence many soldiers would have faced administrative hardships. The leader of this team Chief clerk WO Hurley DM, and the two magicians of admin Sgt Hartmann JK and S3 McWilliam K.
– MWO M.C.M. Aseltine CD
Shannon, you're amazing! A huge shoutout for all the time and energy you've dedicated to guiding me through my files and answering every single question I’ve had. Your depth of knowledge and expertise is truly inspiring. Not only do you have incredible ideas, but your solutions are spot-on. Thank you for being such a fantastic coach and for sharing your wisdom so generously! Keep being awesome!
– Valérie Montambeault
To Leah Roy! Always keeping the laughter on our team.
– Helen Li
I’d like to give a special shoutout to Maika Timm! Maika consistently goes above and beyond in her role as the supervisor of the E-class team. She not only ensures the team meets the goals and objectives of DCCO but also demonstrates a genuine commitment to each team member’s well-being and career development within the department. Whether it’s offering mentorship, recognizing hard work, or creating an environment where everyone feels heard, Maika is a true champion for those she leads. Her unwavering dedication is truly inspiring, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her leading our team!
– Brittany Crane
I would like to give a virtual shout out to Taryn Risto who has gone above and beyond to make her team feel heard and supported. She is always there to lend an ear and to recognize a job well done.
– Lyann Moffat
I want to give a special holiday shout out to Ashley Doucet who is always so organized and efficient. She is always cheerful and so cooperative which helps when my to-do list gets a bit overwhelming. I appreciate all that she does!
– Lynn Burgess
I would like to give a Virtual Shout-Out to Manon Bérubé from ADM(HR-Civ)’s Translation Services Unit (TSU). Manon processes a large volume of translation requests each week under very short deadlines and works tirelessly to meet the needs of our clients. She is dedicated, courteous and always a pleasure to work with. She truly deserves recognition for all her hard work. Manon, thank you for everything you do to ensure the TSU runs smoothly and efficiently. We are so lucky to have you on our team!
– Shanyn Moore
I wanted to give a super friendly shout-out to Charles Desrocher from Team 5 in DNSO.
With a team that not only supports clients in a national model, we also have colleagues spread out throughout the regions. Navigating a virtual environment can always provide its own unique challenges, however Charles has always made immense efforts to support those who may not be physically next door to him.
A HUGE shout-out to Charles for being such an amazing colleague. I am always super appreciative of not only your tremendous knowledge, perspective and support, but the friendship you offer to the entire team (and beyond) on a daily basis.
Thank you for everything, Charles!
– Collin Schafer
I would like to give a special shout out to my colleague and co-worker Marisa Glenn, whose unwavering support and dedication helps keep me focused and motivated every day. Your hard work and positive attitude do not go unnoticed, and I am sincerely grateful for everything you do. Your ability to plan and organize our objectives, along with your foresight in seeing the bigger picture, is truly invaluable. I would be lost without you. Thank you for being such a fantastic colleague!
– Tanya Berger
Karina and Byanka, I feel very lucky that I get to work with you both so closely, you are always available to help with short notice and go above and beyond with making sure I get the answers I need to be able to provide excellent client service. You are both always ready and willing to help those around you and sharing your knowledge and expertise. I am thankful that I get to learn from you both each day and want to make sure you know that your efforts are seen and valued. Thank you for your support each day.
– Medihah Hussain
I wish for a world where peace reigns, and everyone can live in good health, safety, and happiness.
As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to wish all my colleagues, namely HRPPT, a wonderful time filled with joy, relaxation, and warmth.
Cheers to making the most of these moments with loved ones and returning in the new year refreshed and ready for what's ahead.
– Charbel Chamoun
I want to give a huge shout-out to Jennifer Bordeleau, DGWM, for being a fearless leader. Her unwavering dedication, support, and energy inspires us all. No matter the challenge, she’s always there offering guidance, encouragement, and an opportunity for learning. Thank you for everything you do, Jennifer. Your impact is immeasurable!
– Anonymous
This holiday season, I want to take a moment to HUGELY thank Carly Proulx for her exceptional work! We navigated HR processes together that required both precision and speed, and Carly was absolutely brilliant every step of the way! Her commitment to meeting deadlines, even when the workload got intense, is truly something to celebrate!
What makes this all the more special is the bond and team spirit we have cultivated over the course of these projects. Working with you is a true gift, and your enthusiasm, energy, and professionalism bring a magical touch to every task. Like a Christmas tree, you bring warmth and light to every moment, always ready to lend a helping hand, even when things get tough!
Thank you, Carly, you are the magic of our team, and I am so grateful to have you by my side. May this holiday season be as bright and joyful as your work!
– Mélanie Provost Guilbeault
I want to take a moment to acknowledge Josh McGrath for consistently demonstrating professionalism, maintaining a positive attitude, and offering unwavering support through the many changes and challenges our team has navigated over the past four years. Your dedication and positivity have been a cornerstone of our success, and your support has truly made a difference. Thank you for being such an exemplary team player.
– Kim Labreche
I'd like to thank Vanessa Wachuku for her invaluable support during a period of instability within our team (IPM). She ensured our voices were heard by bringing our concerns to senior management when issues arose. Additionally, she played a crucial role in improving communication between our team and clients, helping to keep things on track when it mattered most!
– Jayme Zhang
I would like to send a Virtual Shout-Out to Kim Labreche from DGCCB for keeping our spirits high while providing us baked goods on a weekly basis. Her thoughtfulness makes one day a week extra special. It is very much appreciated for those of us who get to enjoy her efforts.
– Marta Dunand
I would like to send a virtual shoutout to Ali Abdat for his people person approach to work ethics, while still being passionate about the work that he does. It’s a pleasure to work with him.
– Sharon Aird
Virtual Shout out to Team 4 in Director Civilian Classification and Organization (DCCO) operations – Courtney Douglas, Crystal Forgeron, Shannon Lynch, Alexis Farmer, Reem Hashim, Samantha Hopkins, Joey Haddad, Valérie Montambeault and Jacqueline Barton.
Dear Team,
I want to recognize the incredible hard work, teamwork, and collaboration each of you has shown. Your dedication has led to outstanding results.
Hard Work: Your relentless effort has been inspiring.
Teamwork: Your support for one another has created a strong, cohesive unit.
Collaboration: Your open communication and innovative solutions have driven our projects forward.
Results: Thanks to your efforts, we've achieved remarkable success.
Thank you for your commitment. Let's continue to build on this momentum.
Best regards,
– Tanya Auclair
A heartfelt Virtual Shout-Out to our manager Stephanie Vigier, for her exceptional support and leadership. Her unwavering dedication, professionalism, and genuine commitment to our team’s success shine through in everything she does.
– EEPM Team
My sincere congratulations go to Patrick Gauthier, Director, Digital Human Resources, who is an excellent leader and mentor. His style of macro-management provides opportunities for creativity and leadership development in his managers. In the face of uncertainty, constant change and transition, he succeeds in creating a culture of trust and reliability, resulting in strong team players. Patrick Gauthier is authentic, accommodating, open, accessible and a visionary. His leadership is a real asset to our organization. Patrick deserves to be recognized and thanked for his significant contribution to the mandate of our organization, our department and our government.
– Laurentine
I would like to express my thanks, encouragement and heartfelt congratulations to Ighogboya Atigari, who is an example of dedication and professional excellence. Despite her young career in the federal government, she consistently excels and makes a point of working diligently to improve internal processes and systems, while continually demonstrating innovation. She is results-oriented by nature and is always proactive and collaborative in managing her files, while ensuring quality and meeting deadlines. She is always willing to go the extra mile, supporting her colleagues and offering expert advice on policies and procedures, making her a vital resource for our organization. She’s a reliable person whom people can turn to for support. On behalf of our organization, I would like to thank Ighogboya Atigari for her dedicated and passionate work and thank her for being an essential part of our team!
– Laurentine
I’d like to thank Rotuch Rotangar and send him a Virtual Shout-Out for his dedication and ability to demonstrate transferable expertise. As a new member of the team, he very quickly put his knowledge, interpersonal skills, professional network and expertise to work to diligently advance the files under his leadership. His attention to detail, his remarkable skills in diversity and inclusion and his support for various high-profile files, such as the Minister’s commitment letters or Canada’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security (2023 to 2029), demonstrate his collaborative spirit, which was instrumental in the success of these deliverables. Rotuch Rotangar’s dedication has made a significant impact on and contribution to the mandate of our organization, which recognizes his valuable contributions. On behalf of our organization, I’d like to thank him for being an invaluable part of our team!
– Laurentine
I would like to give a shout out to Marjolaine Belzile for always supporting her team by making time for them, asking for their input, and recognising their efforts.
DCES is lucky to have you!
– Caroline Couture
I would like to give a shout out to Michelle Featherstone for always leading with heart the EXDP program and providing a safe space for its participants.
– Caroline Couture
I would like to shout out Souheir Yassine for the positive and supporting energy she infused into the team.
– Caroline Couture
This shout-out is to recognize the hard work of Krystel Vachon. Krystel is smart, joyful, a team player and hard worker that brings a special energy to the workplace (which is even felt working virtually).
– Allison Hale
I would like to give a special shout out to my colleague Tanya Berger, for her support, guidance and coaching as I ventured into a new area of work. Your insights and encouragement have been invaluable to me. You've made this journey not only manageable but also enjoyable. Thank you for being a great colleague. I truly appreciate everything you've done to help me grow. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and achieving even more together.
– Marisa Glenn
A huge shout-out to Labour Relations Operations Team 6 – Laurie Myers, Leah Fisher, Corinne Austin, Mila Donovan Daley, Dominik Doyon, Jenna Brunetti, and John Dewitt! Despite being short-staffed, the team continues to show unwavering dedication, consistently delivering on top priorities. The team’s hard work and resilience is truly inspiring. Not only do they get the job done, but they also maintain a positive attitude which keeps the energy high and the momentum going. The team’s commitment does not go unnoticed, and we are so incredibly grateful for each of them. Thank you, Team 6, for always going above and beyond!
– Marissa Chiarelli
Would like to give a huge shout out to my colleague Elizabeth Van Den Berg. She has been an amazing support and friend over the last few months, and she deserves all the recognition!
– Chelsea Wilcox
I like to take a moment to recognize an exceptional employee, Holly Stein. Her dedication to helping others is truly commendable, and her extensive knowledge and support have not gone unnoticed.
Thank you, Holly, for your strong work ethic and for consistently going the extra mile to ensure smooth operations for other units within DND. Your contributions make you a true asset to our team!
– Vanessa Abbott
Shout out to Marianne Fortier!
Marianne is being recognized for consistently going above and beyond in all that she does. Her dedication to her work is truly remarkable, and she is always ready to lend a helping hand to her colleagues, no matter the time or situation. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her attention to detail have made a significant impact on the team, ensuring that everyone is well-supported and able to perform at their best. Marianne's efforts have not only made her a valuable asset but also a key player in driving the success of the organization. Thank you for all you do, Marianne!
– Anonymous
I would like to take a moment to acknowledge and commend my manager, Estino Seho, for his outstanding efforts on a daily basis. His commitment, leadership and dedication to the success of our team are truly inspiring.
His vision and hard work have been instrumental in overcoming major challenges and moving us forward together. Rest assured that your contribution does not go unnoticed and is deeply appreciated.
Many thanks for all you do to support and motivate us on a daily basis.
– Akima Briss
I’d like to congratulate Tyna Dubois and Scott Liang on achieving their Level B! It’s a wonderful achievement that reflects their hard work, perseverance and commitment.
They are respectful, cheerful people with great human qualities. I am confident that they have a bright future ahead of them.
I wish them every success in their future endeavours!
With all my admiration,
– Akima Briss
I’d like to say a big thank you to my colleagues Marie-Josée Yelle, Rachida Zitouni and Maha Nesrine Aggoun, who are dedicated and fully committed to everything they do.
I would especially like to recognize Marie-Josée, who has made a tremendous contribution to our team through her unwavering support and inspiring projects. Her commitment has been a real added value for all of us.
I wish her all the best for the future and hope she continues to shine in everything she does.
With all my gratitude and admiration,
– Akima Briss
I want to thank Sara Trottier (French Teacher, Internal Language Training) who helped me to obtain the levels that I needed for my French linguistic profile. Thank you for your patience, guidance, and support. Your passion for teaching and dedication to your students made your class enjoyable and effective at the same time. I am grateful to have been in your class and for everything that you have done.
– Scott Liang
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my incredible language teachers who have been instrumental in helping me achieve my French language proficiency levels. Your professionalism, kindness, and intelligence have not only inspired me to learn but also made the journey enjoyable and fulfilling.
To Akima Briss, Fadi Gebeily, and Stéphania Brézault, your dedication and expertise have been truly exceptional. Each of you brought unique strengths to our sessions, making the learning process both effective and inspiring. Your patience and encouragement have been invaluable, and I am deeply appreciative of the positive impact you've had on my professional and personal growth.
Thank you for believing in me and for your unwavering support throughout this journey. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing to build on the strong foundation you have helped me establish.
Thank you!
– Tyna Dubois
It gives me the greatest pleasure to recognize the contributions of Jayme Zhang, Rick Beaton and Jordan Brooks of the Internal Performance Measurement Team (IPM) at ADM(HR-Civ). Their exceptional client-centric, collaborative spirit and team approach have been instrumental in driving performance measurement initiatives forward. Jayme, Rick and Jordan have demonstrated unparalleled dedication and synergy, consistently delivering outstanding results. Their efforts have not only enhanced our ability to measure and improve performance but have also set a remarkable example of what can be achieved through teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence in client-service delivery. Kudos to the Internal Performance Measurement Team for their phenomenal work and unwavering dedication to our clients, partners and the Envision Priorities!
– Vanessa C. Wachuku
Sending a virtual shout out to all of the volunteers in bringing the HR-Civ Social Committee back to life! You are doing a fantastic job and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for 2025!
– Christina Radiff
I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those who participated in some way on the DH&R and D Air Pers Strat social committee for your dedication and commitment. Thanks to your efforts, our work environment is more welcoming and friendly. Your hard work and creativity make a real difference in our daily lives. Speed Networking, walking at the Carling Campus and hosting online games are just a few examples of the activities that have brought our members closer together.
Thanks for all that you do! And thank you to the participants as well.
From your president
– Manon Lecot