Allegany & Cattaraugus
Kim McCauley has been chosen as the first inaugural Seneca Nation Employee of the Month for October 2023 for the Allegany Territory. Kim works for the Education Department as an Enrichment Coach/Tutor. As a tutor, she works within the Salamanca City Central School District with high school aged students. She has been an employee for 12 years. Her first position was at the Seneca Arts and Learning Center as a Lead Teacher before transferring to the Education Department in 2018.
Her favorite thing about working for the Seneca Nation is feeling surrounded by a large support system. Five years ago, her daughter fell very ill and had a long hospital stay. “My boss and coworkers covered me, and my job was the last thing I had to worry about. Everybody was very helpful, very caring and it’s just a wonderful place to work,” Kim shared.
Kim’s goal is to reach as many students as she can to get them to do their work, improve their grades, and get better attendance. One thing she wishes people knew about her job is that “it can be difficult but I have such a passion for our youth that it’s second nature to me and our high school students are wonderful to work with,” Kim said.
One thing on Kim’s bucket list is to visit Ireland with her family. One thing she is proud of about herself is winning Employee of the Month. Ja:göh Kim!
A small reception was held in the council chambers with fresh pumpkin donuts and cider. Kim was presented with a plaque, a designated parking space and a day off. Stay tuned to see who will be selected next month!
Even as the Allegany Education Department celebrated the excellent employment record of Kim McAuley, they are also experiencing the loss of their wonderful co-worker Darren Ross.
Darren was a dedicated employee of the Seneca Nation for over 20 years. He came to the Education Department in 2016 as the Native American School counselor for Seneca Intermediate. Through his love and dedication to our children, Darren formed a lasting connection with the students and the school considered him to be quite an asset! Personally, he had a great love for football. He always played each game as it was his last. When he could no longer play, he dedicated his love for the sport to coaching.
In 2019 he was diagnosed with Glioblastoma. You would never have known he was battling this form of aggressive cancer as he never complained and always had a kind word for everyone. Right up till he was no longer able to continue in this position, he remained dedicated to the students, his co-workers, his family, and the Salamanca community. People who knew him and worked with him often said he was the definition of a “True Warrior” He is greatly missed yesterday, today, and always.
Kevin Stafford has been chosen as the first inaugural Seneca Nation October Employee of the Month for the Cattaraugus Territory.
Kevin works for the Department of Public Works as Lead Carpenter. His position ensures construction projects are completed on time and within the budget while overseeing all workers involved on the job site. Kevin has been an employee of the Seneca Nation for 16 years.
One thing he enjoys about working at DPW is being able to help the elders with their home repairs. Something that Kevin is proud of is being a father to his three children Karley, Kevin, and Jay.
And one thing on his bucket list is that he hopes to make it to 90 years old. At a small gathering at the WSB Council Chambers he was presented with a plague, the day off, and his own parking spot for the month.
Ja:göh Kevin for your dedication and hard work!
