Every year the BHA awards one exemplary employee to win the “Lovey Award”. This award is named in memory of Stephanie Uftring, a beloved BHA employee who called everyone “lovey”. This award is for an employee who goes above for co-workers and residents. This year the award goes to Waleska Figueroa who is the Regional Property Manager for Region 2.

Waleska has been with the BHA for 24 years. She started in 1999 as a Clerk at Ruth Barkley, and 9 months later she was promoted to Senior Management Aide. She worked as a Manager 3 at Cathedral starting in 2003. From 2003- 2019 she moved around and worked as an acting manager at Whittier, Cathedral, Ausonia, and St. Botolph. In 2019 she was promoted to Regional manager for region 2.

“Waleska Figueroa is knowledgeable, professional and capable,” said one nominator. “She is willing to learn and takes the initiative to address issues needing attention.  Staff rely on her for guidance, direction and understanding. She always wears a smile.  She is warm and friendly, and customer service oriented.  Residents love her! She listens, is accommodating to resident's needs, never hesitates to make home visits and keeps in contact with residents through their situation. She is the perfect co-worker, an outstanding employee.”

Waleska received over 20 nominations for the award.

 “I would like to thank you all for nominating me for the Lovey Award, it means a lot to me,” Figueroa said. “Words cannot describe my gratitude for all you do for our residents and staff.  Knowing that you will go above and beyond to make things happen encourage me to make sure I am there to support you.  I love what I do, so I will be always available to assist you and the residents.  We are a team, so you all are part of this with me. Thank you for all the kind words.  Know that I appreciate you as well.”