Each year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver recognizes our exceptional staff for their unwavering dedication to our mission during our annual Chili Cook-Off. During the event, we had the honor of presenting the 2024 Employee Awards, recognizing the exceptional contributions of our team. We’re thrilled to announce this year’s outstanding winners! In addition, we celebrate the commitment from staff for their years of service.
Each year, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver proudly honors our incredible team during the annual Chili Cook-Off—a celebration of dedication, community, and delicious competition! At this year’s event, we presented the 2024 Employee Awards, spotlighting staff members who go above and beyond to support our mission. These awards are extra special because the recipients are nominated by their peers.
We also celebrated team members for their years of service, recognizing their enduring commitment to making a difference in our Club kids' lives.
Keep reading to meet this year’s outstanding winners and honorees!
Rock Star Rookie
The Rock Star Rookie award recognizes a new staff member, with fewer than 12 months of service, who has shown outstanding performance in their current position. The Rock Star Rookie has gone above and beyond in recognizable ways that embody the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver core values.
Ian Jacobs, Director of Corporate Philanthropy
An outstanding new team member isn’t just quick to learn—it’s someone who makes an immediate impact while handling challenges with grace. From day one, Ian has been indispensable. He dove into new projects with enthusiasm, quickly building strong relationships both inside and outside the organization. Amid organizational changes and growing responsibilities, Ian has shown remarkable professionalism and patience, always prioritizing our mission and the kids we serve.
Colleagues praise Ian as “a joy to work with,” and we’re excited to see what’s next for this rising star.
DEI
The DEI Award recognizes employees who actively promote an environment that is affirming and inclusive, embracing and nurturing cultural, ethnic, racial, gender, class, sexual orientation, language, and other human differences. This award celebrates individuals who foster a strong sense of belonging throughout Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Emily Thiel, Social Worker
Emily exemplifies these values every single day. She has shown an unwavering commitment to making every space more inclusive and welcoming for all. Her impact goes beyond maintaining an inclusive environment—she actively works to create it. Whether supporting fellow staff through challenges or helping Club members navigate difficult moments, Emily approaches each situation with empathy and professional expertise.
Colleagues describe Emily as a "ray of sunshine" who brightens every room she enters. But it’s not just her cheerful demeanor that sets her apart—it’s her ability to maintain that positivity while handling complex situations with exceptional skill. Her creative programming extends beyond her designated responsibilities, and she consistently steps in to provide support, even when it means adjusting her own plans.
Emily’s dedication to our mission and values serves as a model for new employees, creating a safe and equitable environment for everyone.
MVP Club Director
The MVP Club Director Award recognizes those who not only exemplify our core values but also take on special initiatives, serving others in ways that go beyond their job descriptions.
Justine Baca, Club Director at KIPP Sunshine Peak Academy Boys & Girls Club
Leadership isn’t just about managing—it’s about transforming Clubs into places where magic happens, and Justine has done exactly that. Despite operating with a smaller team, she has cultivated an environment where members feel safe, valued, and inspired. Her innovative programming injects creativity and joy into daily Club activities, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who walks through the doors.
What truly sets Justine apart is her hands-on approach. She proves no task is too small when enriching the experiences of our Club members. From mentoring new staff and sharing programming ideas with other Clubs to ensuring her school-based site stands out as a model of excellence, Justine consistently goes the extra mile.
Her unwavering commitment to our mission and her passion for creating meaningful experiences remind us all that with dedication and heart, anything is possible.
MVP Club Employee
This award celebrates Club employees who go above and beyond their regular roles at Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver, exemplifying service, dedication, and our core values in specific and impactful ways.
Dakota Gray, Youth Development Specialist at U Prep Arapahoe Street Boys & Girls Club
In times of transition, true leadership shines. Dakota has been a cornerstone during challenging periods, stepping up to ensure vibrant programming and meaningful connections with Club members despite staffing shortages and organizational changes. From creating innovative STEM programs to managing sports and athletics and engaging parents, Dakota’s dedication is remarkable. Even while juggling numerous responsibilities, she keeps our members’ Club experience her unwavering top priority.
Dr. Malcinia Conley, Teen Specialist at Denver Broncos Boys & Girls Club
Dr. Conley has cultivated an environment where Club teens thrive. She develops programs that hold our teens to a high standard and makes meaningful connections with them. These connections provide Club members with the knowledge that Dr. Conley undeniably believes in them and even allows her to call them out when our teens need it. She leads with warmth and professional excellence, walking alongside teens as a mentor rather than simply directing them. Dr. Conley is an incredible example of how to embody our mission and deserves to be recognized.
MVP PSC Employee
The MVP PSC Award honors Program Support Center staff who are essential to the success of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Joe Troyer, HR Manager
In a year marked by significant transitions, Joe has been an invaluable anchor for our organization. Leveraging his extensive institutional knowledge, he has not only maintained operational excellence but has also worked to enhance processes across the board.
Joe’s contributions go far beyond his core responsibilities. Whether managing small yet critical tasks or overseeing events that unite and strengthen our team, his proactive and thoughtful approach ensures the seamless operation of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Superbly Safe
This award acknowledges our team members who live and breathe safety at the Club, ensuring our members feel physically and emotionally safe at the Club and in their communities.
Cindy Andazola Soto, Club Access Assistant at Sunset Ridge Boys & Girls Club
Cindy has created an environment where physical and emotional safety are seamlessly woven into daily operations. Her dedication shines through in every aspect of her work – from ensuring secure Club operations and pick-up procedures to providing members with a welcoming space to decompress when needed. Cindy’s positive presence has transformed our Club's atmosphere, making it a sanctuary where members and families feel protected and valued.
Years of Service Awards
Five Years
- Josh Licerio, Club Operations Director
- Sonia Lopez, Club Access Assistant at Johnson Elementary Boy & Girls Club
- Dulce Gonzalez, Program Manager at Cole Boy & Girls Club
- Dawn Reese, Club Access Assistant at Montview Boy & Girls Club
- Regina Martinez-Gonzalez, Academics and Leadership Manager
Ten Years
- Mary McDermott, Donor Services Manager
