01/24/2025
Employee Excellence
Each year the Medford Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes employees who have gone above and beyond in service to their companies and communities. This year, selection committee members chose Sue Ackerman of Abby Bank and Jean Czerniak of Centennial Community Center to recognize.
Ackerman serves as Medford Branch Manager with Abby Bank and in her nomination letter it was noted she is “not only dedicated to her role as branch manager, but also fosters a supportive and empowering environment for her team. Known for her thoughtfulness and generosity, she consistently encourages her colleagues to develop professionally and give back to the community.”
Her nomination states: “Sue Ackerman’s inspiring leadership, dedication to AbbyBank, and unwavering commitment to the Medford community make her a remarkable candidate for the employee excellence award. Her work ethic, contributions and community involvement have left an enduring legacy that enriches both her colleagues and the community she serves.”
Jean Czerniak is the head cook at Centennial Community Center in Stetsonville.
Her nomination states: “Not only is Jean a good cook, but it is her wise planning and organizational skills that keep the Centennial Hall running smoothly.”
In addition to cooking at the hall and catering for businesses and private parties, Czerniak also cooks the meals served at the senior dining site in Stetsonville both for those dining at the hall and for home delivered meals in the area.
Her nomination states, “Jean’s years at the Centennial Community Center shows how dedicated and caring she feels about our community. She is an asset to Taylor County (and many outlying areas) and I would like to let her know how much she is appreciated.”
In addition to the lifetime achievement, person of the year and employee excellence award recognition, the Chamber will also be recognizing area businesses that have achieved milestones in their years of service to the community. Businesses reaching milestone anniversaries are invited to contact the Medford Area Chamber of Commerce to make sure you are on the list to be recognized.