Erica Fish, Marketing Communications Specialist
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At Barron Collier Companies (BCC), a thriving corporate culture is built on collaboration, respect and a shared commitment to organizational values. That’s why the company implemented a unique approach to employee recognition, where peers nominate each other for quarterly awards, ensuring that outstanding contributions are not only acknowledged but celebrated by the entire team.
Through the efforts of the Professional Development Committee this peer-nomination program offers every BCC employee the opportunity to nominate up to four team members per year.
“These nominations are for individuals who exemplify the company’s core values and who make remarkable contributions to their team and the community,” explained committee chair Michelle Mambuca, marketing and public relations manager.
Once nominations are submitted, a dedicated slating committee evaluates each submission thoroughly. “We consider various factors, such as tenure, the number of nominations an individual has received and the specific reasons provided for why someone stands out,” said Ashley McNamara, human resources and payroll manager and committee member.
What makes this program particularly special is the emphasis on peer-to-peer recognition.
“It creates an opportunity for colleagues to learn more about their peers, appreciate their individual strengths and celebrate the unique contributions each person brings to our company,” McNamara said.
When an individual is selected for quarterly recognition, the celebration is not just a simple announcement—it’s a moment of appreciation. A special lunch is organized for the department, where CEO Blake Gable personally thanks the honoree with a framed certificate and a gift card.
“It fosters an atmosphere where success is shared, respect is mutual and good work is consistently acknowledged,” noted Gable.
For 2024, the four employees recognized for their outstanding contributions were executive/project management assistant Sabina Hardy, engineering assistant & permitting coordinator Audrey Hancock, junior systems administrator Bailey Schena and CAD technician Nathan Mullins:
“Sabina is a go-to for many questions, always willing to guide and assist anyone, in any department. She is an exemplary employee, with a strong work ethic. Sabina consistently shows respect, professionalism, and leadership on a daily basis.” – JJ Wong, chief operations officer.
“Audrey handles all sorts of tasks with a smile and is always willing to learn and figure things out. Audrey goes above and beyond to help on anything from administrative to engineering solutions. It is very apparent Audrey cares about her role and shows initiative in executing tasks and processes.” – Connor Jones, project manager.
“Bailey is such an amazing addition to the IT department. He cares about making sure our help desk management is provided with unwavering daily support to both the IT team and employees. Always happy to help, never complains, always professional and pleasant. Even if it can be a little stressful and demanding at times, Bailey continually ensures smooth operations and enhanced productivity.” – Jared Hamilton, IT director.
“Nathan’s work ethic inspires everyone around him and the support he shows to employees is extremely appreciated. He goes out of his way to help, never asking, just stepping in and with a smile.” – Erica Fish, marketing communications specialist.
“Their efforts have made a significant impact within their departments, and they are all a great example of our organization’s mission which is a commitment to excellence,” Mambuca shared.
Through embedding this recognition program into the fabric of BCC’s corporate culture, employees are motivated to cheer for one another.
“Our culture of appreciation doesn’t just live in words—it lives in actions, in the way we treat each other, and in the way we celebrate every achievement… Big or small,” McNamara said.
