Grinnell Mutual Way Awards Gala recognizes standout employees

     Kim Bushong, left, Risk Manager, was the recipient of the Larry J. Jansen Epic Impact Award for displaying Grinnell Mutual’s core values while making a business impact at the company. The award was present to Kim by Echo Jansen, the wife of the late Larry J. Jansen, middle. At right is Jeff Menary, president and CEO of Grinnell Mutual. Kim was one of several Grinnell Mutual employees recognized at the awards gala on March 24.

     Grinnell Mutual has a strong culture that highlights the successes and achievements of their employees. Grinnell Mutual hosted an employee gala, which included a sit-down dinner and awards ceremony, at its corporate headquarters on March 24, 2023. 
   Company leaders intend to make the gala an annual event that acknowledges and celebrates the accomplishments of their employees over the previous year. This year, a committee selected three finalists from all nominations for each of the 10 awards. Employees then voted for the winners.
     “The Grinnell Mutual Way Awards Gala provides a time for employees to not only select and celebrate the successes of their peers, but also to be a part of the Grinnell Mutual culture,” said Lydia Caraveo, director of employee benefits and gala committee chair. “It’s a chance to gather in person, reconnect, and have a fun evening.”  
The 2023 winners are:
    Community Impact Award: For an individual or team with a strong commitment to volunteering and community involvement — Barb Baker, Grinnell, Director of Advertising and Community Relations
    Excellence in Leadership Award: For delivering results while fostering a positive and collaborative environment — Kevin Leis, Fort Jennings, Ohio, Claims Mutual Servicers Supervisor
     Innovation and Improvement Award: For a Business Excellence project by a team that reached goals with significant results — The Assurance, Advisory, and Accounting Services team led by division Vice President and Chief Audit Executive Michelle Hutchinson
     Hero Award: For an individual who works behind the scenes and consistently goes above and beyond — John Guthrie, Kellogg, Director of Building Operations
     Larry J. Jansen Epic Impact Award: For an individual who displays Grinnell Mutual’s core valueswhile making a business impact on Grinnell Mutual — Kim Bushong, Brooklyn, Risk Manager
     Lifetime Achievement Award: For an individual who has been an outstanding mentor, coach, and great example to others for 25 or more years at Grinnell Mutual — Bill Gallagher, North Liberty, Sales Director
    Rookie of the Year Award: For an individual who shows initiative, is self-motivated, and makes a positive impact on Grinnell Mutual (two years or fewer at the company) — David Dudley, Mountain View, Mo., Investigator
     Synergy Award: For the Individual or team who creates an environment of belonging and appreciation for all individuals — Kim Faas, Grinnell, Commercial Lines Underwriting Manager
    Wellness Ambassador Award: For an individual who has promoted healthy behaviors within their department — Lindsey Warnick, Guernsey, Assurance Analyst
    Grinnell Mutual Way Award: For an individual who demonstrates Grinnell Mutual’s core values every day — Traci Guthrie, Kellogg, Underwriting Technical Specialist; and Jody Wilson, Newton, Service Desk Analyst.