First Recipient of
The Patty L. Gilbertson Excellence in Service Award
John F. Haywood, Newport News Adult Drug Court Coordinator
;)
Fred Gilbertson & John F. Haywood
John F. Haywood has been selected as the first recipient of the inaugural Patty L. Gilbertson Excellence in Service Award. The Patty L. Gilbertson Excellence in Service Award is given each year to a Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board employee who exemplifies the essence of service to others and commitment to the mission of the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board. This award is dedicated to the memory of Patty L. Gilbertson, a longtime employee and advocate for behavioral healthcare in the Commonwealth.
John was nominated by his peers and a committee, representing the employees of the Board, the Board of Directors and the Consumer and Family Member Advisory Council, made the final selection of him as the recipient of this prestigious award. His selection for this honor speaks highly of the value of his service and the dedication he has given the Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board and the individuals we serve.
From his nomination: "...he takes the time to develop and nurture relationships with his coworkers, something he shared with his mentor, the late Patty Gilbertson. John is also well known in the Hampton Roads community and throughout the state for his commitment and dedication to helping those with substance use disorders. Always representing the H-NNCSB in a positive manner and bringing recognition to the services that the agency provides. There is hardly a place, association or agency that I can think of that when I mention my employment at the H-NNCSB I am asked if I know John Haywood, followed by he is a great guy. When I first met Mr. Haywood in 1997 he was always very curious about my work and how we could work together on different projects. I often wondered if this man ever stops thinking about the next project or event that we could work on. One of John's greatest strength his collaborative skills and ability to draw people in. He networks well and has been involved on several community boards and associations throughout the years. He has made his life's purpose to help those with substance abuse and mental health issues, again much like Patty Gilbertson. John is a selfless man who is dedicated and loyal to the Newport News Drug Treatment court, the H-NNCSB, but most importantly to the individuals he serves. He is an advocate and has helped numerous others improve their quality of life. He is willing, to sit behind the desk and do the counseling but is also willing to hit the pavement and take individuals to meetings, Dr. appointments, to the VA or whatever is needed. John Haywood is a very humble person and no task is too big or too small as long as you have time for a good story. He is a professional with strong ethical standards, who serves as a role model and leader for the recovery community as well as fellow CSB co-workers. He has been around a long time and does not hesitate to share is wisdom and experience."
Please join me in congratulating John on this well deserved award.
-Chuck Hall
;)