On August 4, staff from across SMRS came together at Almansor Court for our quarterly All-Agency Meeting. It was a nice chance to see familiar faces, meet new team members, catch up, and hear what has been happening around the Agency. We also took time to celebrate the employees who continue to give so much to SMRS and the people we serve.
CEO Bruce Boardman welcomed everyone and recognized both new and longtime employees. He spoke about the importance of the work being done throughout the agency and reminded staff that their compassion and dedication bring hope to the people and communities we serve.
Reham Abdrabo, Director of Education and Training, led a fun and interactive presentation on “Boundaries in the Workspace.” Instead of simply listening, staff worked together, talked through real situations, and used red and green cards to share their answers. There was plenty of laughter and honest conversation throughout the room. Reham reminded everyone that boundaries are not about being cold or uncaring—they help us show compassion while keeping ourselves and the people we serve safe.
Staff also came together for a group photo in preparation for SMRS’s 40th anniversary celebration and heard updates about upcoming trainings, program events, and agency activities.
Celebrating Years of Service
The afternoon continued with a celebration of employees who reached 5, 10, 15, and 35 years with SMRS. Their supervisors shared a few personal words and thanked them for everything they have given to the Agency.
35 Years
- Bruce Boardman
15 Years
- Lizet Montes
10 Years
- Jessica Bushmeyer
- Dr. Anna Lee
- Kelly Boardman
5 Years
- Justin Scotka
- Cassandra Magana
- Ruel DeLeon
- Amy Wrightston
- Lorna Nelson
- Mariela Figueroa
- Carlos Nieto
- Ruth Zamarripa
- Lacey Andel
During the recognition of Dr. Anna Lee for 10 years of service, Bruce reflected on her inspiring personal and professional journey. He spoke about how she returned to SMRS as an intern, continued her education, earned her doctorate, and became a leader who has influenced students, interns, colleagues, and professionals throughout the field.
Bruce also shared that watching Anna pursue her education inspired him to return to school. He told her that her work has encouraged many others to believe in what is possible and expressed how proud he was to present her award.
Another emotional moment came when Bruce was recognized for 35 years of service. After receiving his award, he turned the attention back to the employees and thanked them for everything they do each day.
Even while being recognized for 35 years of service, Bruce made sure the staff knew how much he appreciated them. “The work that everyone does in this organization is what makes us strong,” he said. He thanked employees for giving their heart and soul each day and shared that the 40th anniversary celebration is meant to celebrate them. “I’m nothing without you,” Bruce added, thanking everyone for being part of “this amazing adventure.”
Inspiration of Uncompromising Service Award Nominees 2026
Another special part of the meeting was the presentation of the 2026 Inspiration of Uncompromising Service Award. Nominees were recognized by a coworker who saw the difference they make. The following employees were nominated for the care, dedication, and support they bring to their work:
- Deon Hunter – Omni Center
- Denise Hernandez-Felice – Main Office
- Daniel Lugo – River Community
- Genesis Aguilera – River Community Covina and Wellness
- Ellen Striverson – Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD)
- Alexis Tapia – Stepping Stones
- Cecile Rodriguez – Main Office
- Zelenne Cardenas – Prevention Department
- Samantha Latscha – River Community
- Lacey Andel – Mid Valley Outpatient
- Diane Ortiz – Omni Center
- Dianne Villamin – Main Office
- Jessica Reyes – Prevention Department
- Angela Rivera – Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD)
- Jesse Zaragoza – Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD)
- Monique Rodriguez – Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD)
- Daniel “Cohry” Osborne – Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD)
Deon Hunter, Ellen Striverson, and Cecile Rodriguez were recognized as the top three nominees.
This year’s award went to Cecile Rodriguez. Her nomination gave a glimpse into the many ways she supports staff, from answering everyday questions to helping employees through some of life’s most difficult moments. Much of her work happens quietly behind the scenes, but it touches people across the Agency. When she accepted the award, Cecile simply shared, “I love what I do, and I love helping everyone.”
The meeting ended with a question-and-answer session, giving staff an opportunity to speak directly with leadership. Everyone was also reminded about the upcoming SMRS 40th anniversary celebration and encouraged to RSVP using the link sent by email.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and to every SMRS team member whose compassion, dedication, and service continue to make a difference.
