We are proud to recognize the inaugural group of SEK’s Core Award Winners. The Core Awards program was designed to recognize SEK team members who consistently bring our Core Values to life through their actions, collaboration, and service to others.
Earlier this year, team members from across the firm have nominated individuals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to SEK’s Core Values of:
- Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards and delivering quality service.
- Responsiveness: Valuing our clients’ time by responding quickly and thoroughly.
- Empowerment: Supporting each team member’s development and building a workplace where all voices are valued and respected, ensuring fair and equal opportunities for everyone.
- Quality of Life: Providing flexibility and support to help our team members thrive both professionally and personally.
- Community: Encouraging and supporting active involvement in the communities where we live and work.
A committee of SEK leaders thoughtfully reviewed all nominations, and the Core Award winners were unveiled at our Firmwide Meeting on August 13, 2026. Learn more about our 2026 Core Award Winners below.
Integrity Award: Alaina Reaver
Alaina exemplifies integrity through the trust, honesty, and consistency she brings to every client relationship. Her teammates know they can count on her to do what’s right, communicate openly, and take genuine ownership of the work and relationships entrusted to her. That trust is especially meaningful when it comes to her contributions to long-standing client relationships that have been built over decades.
Whether she’s providing an honest answer, responding thoughtfully, or going the extra mile to support a client’s success, Alaina consistently shows up and takes pride in doing things the right way. Her dedication to her clients, colleagues, and her work makes Alaina a true example of Integrity in Action.
“As someone who is transitioning their long-term client relationships to the next generation, there’s no greater compliment than to say that I completely trust Alaina taking care of clients that I’ve spent a lifetime serving.” -John Schnitzer, Former Managing Member
“Alaina consistently shows up for those around her—especially her clients. They know that they are going to get an honest answer, timely communication, and a genuine investment in their success.” -Bre Noble, Supervisor
Responsiveness Award: Jen Hoerner
Jen demonstrates responsiveness through her reliability, follow-through, and commitment to supporting both clients and colleagues. Since joining SEK, Jen has played an important role in improving administrative processes, both locally and firmwide. Regardless of the task, Jen ensures every detail is handled properly and thoroughly while respecting deadlines, honoring her commitments, and consistently following through.
With her steady leadership, attention to detail, and proactivity, Jen has become someone whom clients and colleagues know they can depend on, making her an outstanding reflection of what Responsiveness in Action looks like at SEK.
“After starting with the firm right before COVID, transitioning through two administrative retirements, and training of staff, Jen has played a critical role in strengthening the administrative function in the Carlisle office and the firm, while fostering an environment of trust, accountability, and continuous improvement.” -Evan Wabrick, Member of the Firm
“Whenever something is placed in the admin department, Jen makes sure it is handled properly and thoroughly. She understands the specific needs of clients, respects their deadlines, and follows through on her commitments.” -Cindy Carothers, Manager
Empowerment Award: Lauren Frick
Lauren embodies empowerment through her commitment to listening to, collaborating with, and supporting those around her. When new projects or challenges come her way, the team can rely on Lauren to actively seek other perspectives and create solutions that allow all to contribute and succeed. This was recently on display throughout the creation of a new business plan for the Estates and Trusts service line.
Beyond her day-to-day work, Lauren invests in the people around her. Regardless of the person’s title or what their issue is, Lauren is known for taking the time to lend a listening ear and offering encouragement and support. Lauren creates an environment where all feel confident and valued. By creating space for others to share their ideas, take ownership, and grow, Lauren helps build a stronger team and a workplace where people are empowered to reach their potential, making her a true example of Empowerment in Action at SEK.
“Lauren exemplifies and embodies the firm’s core value of empowerment by approaching projects with an open mind, soliciting input from others, and collaboratively developing and executing plans that offer growth opportunities for everyone.” -Brad Kearns, Member of the Firm
“Lauren truly cares about the others around her and makes it a point to walk alongside those around her. She provides a listening ear and is there to encourage them.” -Michelle Robinson, Manager
Quality of Life Award: Deann Palmer
Deann displays SEK’s commitment to Quality of Life through the positivity, encouragement, and support she consistently provides to those around her. No matter the challenge, Deann approaches each situation with optimism and a practical mindset, helping her team stay focused and move forward together.
Even during the most demanding times of the year, Deann finds ways to keep things light. She motivates her teammates and reminds everyone to celebrate successes along the way, big or small. Whether through a few words of encouragement, a sweet treat, or her signature positive attitude, Deann creates an environment where people feel supported and appreciated. Deann’s ability to bring perspective and positivity to challenging moments are a strong example of Quality of Life in Action and helps make SEK a place where team members can thrive both professionally and personally.
“Deann makes SEK a better place to work through the positive and supportive approach she brings to both challenges and her team. Whether she’s dealing with onboarding new clients, client issues, changes in tax law, firm growth, or staff turnover, Deann stays positive and looks for practical ways to address the challenge, stay ahead of potential problems, and bring the team together.” -Bill Oyster, Member of the Firm
“Deann has such a positive attitude, even during busy season and even when times get tough. [During this past busy season], Deann kept us focused and motivated, whether it was with food and little treats or with positive encouragement. Deann always has a “we can do this” kind of attitude.” -Liz Burkey, Supervisor
Community Award: Emily Beecher
Emily embodies SEK’s commitment to Community through her willingness to show up, get involved, and make a difference wherever she can. Emily is a familiar and trusted presence throughout the community and can often be found generously giving her time and energy to support organizations, initiatives, and people who need a helping hand. What sets Emily apart is her instinct to turn a need into action. Rather than waiting to be asked, she simply sees where she can help and finds a way to contribute.
That same spirit of service carries into her work at SEK, where everyone knows they can count on her support. Through her nonprofit and community involvement, generous spirit, and genuine care for others, Emily is a shining example of Community in Action at SEK and in the communities we serve.
“Emily goes above and beyond to stay involved in the community, and anywhere you look, you can find Emily Beecher. It is very well-known in the community that Emily will be there, no matter what their needs will be.” -Kelli Cobb, Member of the Firm
“She sees the need and simply finds a way to help. That’s the same approach she brings to work each day. Clients and coworkers know that they can count on her.” -Brianne Dickinson, Manager
Congratulations to our 2026 Core Award Winners!
Our winners’ character and positive behaviors exemplify the best of SEK and truly demonstrate what it means to live our Core Values in action. We’re proud to recognize the positive impact these individuals have on our team, clients, and community.
To learn more and watch the winner's video, visit our Core Values page.
