In a ceremony Tuesday, February 7, 2017, Catherine Kasper Home Executive Director Carol McGuigan named Environmental Services co-worker Gaylene Engle the 2016 Employee of the Year. Based on the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ Core Values of Dignity and Respect for All, Openness to the Spirit, Simplicity, and Community, Carol said Gaylene was the clear winner. “During times of need, Gaylene, on her own, always steps up to help,” Carol said, citing numerous times when Gaylene offered support or began fund drives for co-workers facing difficult circumstances. 

Gaylene, a co-worker at CKH for the last seven years, has worked for the Poor Handmaids in various capacities for 28 years. She began her career at the Poultry Farm as an egg gatherer and packer. When the Poultry Farm closed, she moved onto Dietary Services at the Motherhouse for the next 11 years. Later, she made the move to Environmental Services and has enjoyed the variety of job experiences.

Previously an Employee of the Month in June 2016, a surprised Gaylene was caught totally off guard by the announcement. After receiving her award, she was surrounded by and embraced by Sisters and colleagues, including her daughter, Nickole Castro, a Certified Nursing Assistant at Catherine Kasper Home.  

She considers the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ Sisters family too. In 1991, Gaylene lost her husband and the father of her three children in a tragic car crash. The Sisters responded with their characteristic kindness and generosity. “I am still so grateful” she said. Gaylene has moved onto happier times. She’s remarried and enjoying life as a mother, grandmother, and now as the Employee of the Year, 2016. Congratulations Gaylene!