ALBANY — Four CSEA members employed at the state Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) were recently honored at the agency’s annual Employee of the Year ceremony, along with members who were honored as part of a statewide team..
Robert Quattrociochi, a motor vehicle operator, was named the Hudson Valley Developmental Disabilities Services Office (DDSO) 2025 Employee of the Year.
Throughout his 46-year career, Quattrociochi consistently “goes above and beyond what is expected,” said Hudson Valley DDSO Deputy Director Heather Callahan.
“He embodies the purpose of our work and the reason behind our actions at Hudson Valley DDSO,” said Callahan.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Quattrociochi worked alongside maintenance teams to unload trucks, process orders and bring supplies directly to individuals’ homes while continuing his regular job duties.
Tina Sawyer was named the Western New York DDSO 2025 Employee of the Year for being the “definition of exceeding expectations.”
Sawyer, a direct support professional, was unable to attend the ceremony, but her supervisors shared that “her impact is felt every day.” They also noted how she creates a welcoming atmosphere.
“What sets Tina apart is not just her many years of service, but the caring spirit she brings to her work,” said her supervisor. “The program would not be the same without her.”
Clement Romans Jr, a direct support professional, was honored as Brooklyn DDSO 2025 Employee of the Year. He has spent two decades bringing “calm consistency and heart to every residence,” said supervisor Nicole Chapman, who nominated Romans.
Outside of his daily responsibilities, Romans makes an extra effort to cook meals for individuals and brings his barbering skills to keep them feeling their best.
Lakysha Allen, a developmental assistant III, was named the Staten Island DDSO 2025 Employee of the Year.
In her 18 years of service, she has stood as a “shining example of unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership and inspiring professionalism,” said Treatment Team Leader Yusuf Cross.
Cross described Allen’s leadership throughout the past year as “transformative.” When an individual was hospitalized in another borough, Allen coordinated around-the-clock coverage for months.
Describing her as a “a relentless problem solver with a heart full of compassion,” Cross said Allen is more than a manager — she is “a motivator, a mentor and a champion for her team.”
The Statewide Team Award was presented to the East Duncan IRA team from Taconic DDSO in recognition of the special attention to an individual through end-of-life care.
— Alexandra Whitbeck
