California JPIA Staff Members Receive Service Awards

The California JPIA congratulates five staff members who celebrated milestone anniversaries in 2022: Administrative Analyst Edith Aviña, with 20 years of service; Maintenance Worker Chris Yanonis and Insurance Programs Manager Jim Thyden, both with 15 years of service; and Senior Risk Manager Alex Mellor and Workers’ Compensation Program Manager Jeff Rush, both with ten years of service.

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“At the Authority, we pride ourselves on having a culture that makes staff feel valued and appreciated. We know and actively celebrate our colleagues’ efforts that make a difference for our members,” said Chief Executive Officer Jon Shull. “It’s a testament to this culture that we have five staff members celebrating more than ten years of service to the Authority.”

Aviña supports member services, assists the executive management team, and manages independent projects across the organization. Yanonis’ responsibilities include building and grounds maintenance, facilities operations, and campus security. He also supports the planning and execution of campus events. Thyden manages the Authority’s property and commercial insurance programs and services, placement of excess and reinsurance, and evidence of coverage documents. Mellor’s responsibilities involve assisting California JPIA public agency members with risk management efforts in public safety, contractual risk transfer, regulatory compliance, and employment practices liability. Rush manages the Authority’s workers’ compensation program, including the third-party administrator and defense panel attorneys, and cost containment programs, such as the medical provider network.

“Edith, Chris, Jim, Alex Mellor, and Jeff are incredibly hard-working and dedicated. Their efforts shine when working with our members,” said Deputy Executive Officer Alex Smith. “We are proud to have them on the team, representing the Authority and helping our members succeed.”

The California JPIA’s Executive Committee recognized Aviña, Yanonis, Thyden, Mellor, and Rush with special service awards during its meeting on December 14, 2022.

“The Executive Committee and Board of Directors are grateful for the dedication and commitment of our employees,” said Executive Committee President Margaret Finlay. “The California JPIA is a leader among insurance pools, due in large part to the efforts of its loyal staff. Congratulations to all of them for a job well done.”

Congratulations, Edith, Chris, Jim, Alex, and Jeff and thank you for your continued hard work!

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