(Batesville, IN) – The Southeastern Indiana YMCA proudly honored three outstanding staff members—Albert Hudepohl, Jessie Barnes, and Bryan Bonilla—during the November meeting of the YMCA Board of Directors.
Each was presented with the Y’s prestigious S.O.A.R. Award (Service and Outstanding Achievement Recognition), which celebrates team members who consistently go above and beyond in service to members, colleagues, and the Y mission.
Albert Hudepohl– Lifeguard
Presented by Assistant Program Director, Alyssa Enneking, Hudepohl was recognized for his proactive communication and leadership within the Aquatics Department.
“Albert has shown me nothing but professionalism, and he doesn’t just come to me with issues—he comes with solutions,” Enneking shared. “He’s always ahead of the game, keeping me updated on what’s happening in the pool and making sure everything is taken care of. He has shown tremendous growth, stepping up whenever needed. He truly deserves this award, especially for the respect he has shown for this job and to me as a lifeguard at the Y.” Albert’s reliability, growth, and dedication to safety make him an invaluable member of the Y’s aquatics team.
Jessie Barnes – Wellness Instructor (Yoga & SilverSneakers®)
Wellness Coordinator Nikki Kaiser celebrated Barnes’ tremendous energy, compassion, and initiative.
“Jessie has been a ray of sunshine since the day she joined our team,” Kaiser shared. “She genuinely cares about everyone in her classes. She started as a yoga instructor, quickly added a senior-focused class, and then took it upon herself to earn her SilverSneakers® certification. She steps up anytime a sub is needed, and we’re so thankful she’s here. She’ll even be leading a new-to-our-Y Yoga Retreat this January.” Barnes’ ability to build community, uplift others, and expand wellness offerings exemplifies the heart of the Y’s work.
Bryan Bonilla – Welcome Center Specialist
Membership & Operations Director, Tameeka Sizemore, presented the award to Bonilla, recognizing his warmth, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming experience for all who walk through the Y’s doors.
“Bryan is outgoing, welcoming, and consistently goes above and beyond what is asked of him,” she shared. “He is always willing to step up, help where needed, and has been incredibly flexible with his schedule to ensure the front desk is covered.” Bonilla has also become a favorite among members—especially youth—thanks to his spot-on Mickey Mouse impression and amazing magic tricks. His nickname, “The Magic Man,” is well earned, and it’s not uncommon for kids to come looking for him if he isn’t here in the evenings. “Bryan is a kind, warm-hearted person who helps bring the team together, and he is truly deserving of this SOAR award,” Sizemore added.
Celebrating Excellence at the Y
“Our staff are the heartbeat of this organization,” said Southeastern Indiana YMCA CEO Tara Britton. “Albert, Jessie, and Bryan each embody our Y values through their leadership, compassion, creativity, and dedication to our members. Their impact strengthens our community every single day, and we are proud to honor them with this recognition.”
(Southeastern Indiana YMCA press release)
