I recently had the honor of attending the first DEMA Convention in Los Angeles. While there were speakers, workshops, exhibitors and networking opportunities aplenty, a highlight of the event was the Award Ceremony. Four awards were presented and each recipient is deserving and has influenced this industry and leaves a legacy for others to follow.
2012 DEMA Lifetime Achievement Award
How do you pay adequate homage to someone who made a life-time career of providing service? How do you bring to light hidden acts of kindness to some of America’s greatest leaders? Acts that previously were covert to the eyes of even the Secret Service?
To an industry that prides itself on seamless service and feeds very little on public applause, the accolades come too few and often times too late. The Domestic Estate Managers Association did not exist in 1952 when Mr. Eugene Allen, an African American waiter, made application at the White House as a ‘’pantry man’’. Yet, DEMA is proud to honor the life of one of America’s most notable Private Service Figures.
DEMA presents posthumously, the Lifetime Achievement award to Mr. Eugene Allen, White House Butler.
2012 Agency of the Year
Distinguished Domestic Services
2012 Educator of the Year
Charles MacPherson Associates Inc.
2012 Vendor of the Year
2012 Humanitarian of the Year
Richard J. Stephenson, Founder and Chairman Cancer Treatment Centers of America
2012 Private Service Professional of the Year
Richmond Schmidt, President DEMA South Florida Chapter
New for 2013 is the SPARK Awards, created by Lora Brawley and Nanny Biz Reviews. 
Nanny Biz Reviews is proud to present the first annual SPARK Awards for Excellence In Nanny Care. The SPARK Awards celebrate everyday nannies doing extraordinary work to support parents, care for children and strengthen families. Each of the two award categories, Enthusiastic Newcomer and Seasoned Veteran, showcase individual excellence in nanny care demonstrated by exceptional childcare, impactful work, and a positive, encouraging attitude.
Also in April, INA will honor a new Nanny of the Year. This distinction is given annually to a working nanny to recognize personal and professional accomplishments.
Having these awards for our industry is a step in recognizing outstanding professionals for outstanding work. We congratulate all award winners, and wish all nominees the best of luck!
Some material provided for this article from DEMA (www.domesticmanagers.com) and Nanny Biz Reviews (www.nannybizreviews.com). Used with permission.
by Kellie Geres
Regarding Nannies Development Team