Barb Tremmel 2024 Outstanding Staff of the Year

Sheldon, Iowa – During the annual Village Northwest Unlimited Employee Christmas Party on December 5, 2024, Barb Tremmel was named the Outstanding Staff Person of the Year.  This award is the highest honor awarded to a staff member of VNU.   To be considered for this award, staff must be nominated by their peers.  “Barb’s co-workers believe she has demonstrated the mission of the Village and felt she should be recognized for her commitment to meeting the needs of the individuals served.   We are thrilled to recognize Barb as the 2024 Outstanding Staff Person of the Year Award”, commented Brian Robyn, Director of Human Resources.

Barb began her career at VNU in April of 2005, after a long career as a Baker’s Assistant at bakeries in Sibley, Iowa.  Her initial position with the Village was working as a Vocational Trainer at the Village’s Northwest Enterprises, now the Summit.  In 2018, Barb became a Community Program Instructor as part of the organization's reorganization of vocational services.  In the same year, Barb earned her certification as a Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP).  As a CESP, Barb has reached the highest level of recognition for providing supported employment services to the individuals served by the Village.  In addition to her Job Coaching duties, Barb leads many of the curriculums offered in the organization’s day habilitation program. 

Barb works hard to ensure that the individuals served by VNU have the tools to obtain the highest levels of success.  She is instrumental in helping them to reach their vocational and employment dreams and goals.

Upon receiving the award, Barb stated, “ When I started at the Village, I simply needed a job.  However, I have been given so much more. I have gained so many friends.  I have a second family that means the world to me.”

When thinking of the Village and their desire to provide purpose, privacy, and dignity for all people it is easy to see that Barb is a tremendous asset to the Village.  Barb has demonstrated the Village values in all her interactions with others.  Barb has worked hard for nearly 19 years and is a huge part of the Village family.