LIVONIA, Mich.– In its third year of recognizing members who work hard and are passionate about what is important to them, Zeal Credit Union has honored people in nine different categories to honor people for their accomplishments.
“This year we received more than 220 nominations from family members, friends and co-workers about people who not only work hard at their jobs, they are dedicated volunteers--giving back to the community,” said Bryan Feldpausch, marketing manager for Zeal Credit Union. “They made our selection very difficult.”
Honored at Zeal Credit Union’s 65th Annual Membership Meeting in March at the Dearborn Inn, this year’s winners in nine categories include:
- Skilled Trade—Henry C. Perry, Jr., Mill worker, Lathrup Village
- Civil Service—Brian Petersen, Firefighter/EMT, Gibraltar
- Education—Katherine Collier, Teacher aid, Dearborn Heights
- Office—Pamela Porshae, Loan closer, Taylor
- Medical—Kristy Hamilton, Nurse, Garden City
- Unsung Hero--Randy Spader, General Manager, Westland
- Community Superstar—Mary Cross, Volunteer, Southgate
- Service Industry—Valerie Bryan, Cosmetologist, Lathrup Village
- Hardest Working Member—Emmanuel Paravas, Commercial inspector, Southgate
During the annual meeting, which was attended by the credit union’s board of directors, hard-working staff and members, winners in eight of the categories were presented with award plaques and $100 VISA gift cards.
Recognized in the top category of Hardest Working Member was Emmanuel Paravas, a commercial inspector from Southgate, who also received an award plaque and the grand prize of $1,000.
Paravas, an Army veteran and retired police officer, has devoted his life to helping other veterans and first responders. He volunteers for countless organizations and is current commander of VFW Post #9283 in Southgate. Receiving two nominations, he was also described as a devoted husband, father and selfless spirit who never seeks recognition for his hard work, though is certainly deserving.
“The presentation of these awards were made even more special by having the opportunity to visit with the winners and their nominators during our Annual Membership Meeting,” added Feldpausch.
At right, top: Hard Working Spirit Award winners honored at Zeal Credit Union’s annual meeting include, from left: Valerie Bryant, Katherine Collier, Emmanuel Paravas, Kristy Hamilton, Henry C. Perry, Jr., and Randy Spader. Not pictured are Pamela Porshae and Brian Petersen.
Below, right, receiving the grand prize as Hardest Working Member is Emmanuel Paravas, at left, with Angie Krogol, Zeal Credit Union’s chief member service experience officer, and Bryan Feldpausch, marketing manager.