Assurance Agency Names Schaumburg Resident Employee of the Year

Assurance is proud to bestow its coveted Employee of the Year honor upon Schaumburg resident Melissa Folkes, an account manager hailing from Mt. Zion, Ill.

"Whether training or mentoring other employees directly, or simply answering questions and sharing advice, Melissa takes the time to make sure everyone is comfortable in their role, and she never hesitates to help others," said Steven Handmaker, chief marketing officer at Assurance. "It's our pleasure to shine a light on the core of what makes Assurance different, which are our engaged employees working together to create value for our clients."

Folkes was chosen by select managers and leaders throughout the organization. She learned of the accolade at the company's annual holiday party, which was held on Dec. 6 at Park West in Chicago. It's the first time the company hosted a downtown soiree which was in honor of the opening of its Chicago office at 111 N. Canal.

"I truly enjoy coming to work each day to do the best job that I can by providing quality service to my customers as well as keeping up on evolving trends in the industry," Folkes said. "I am so grateful to work at such a remarkable company and with a great team every day."

Folkes contributed time to Little City, a facility for autistic children and adults, during the company's annual volunteer initiative. She also volunteers with the Gail Q. Best Foundation Charity Golf Outing, which raises $10,000 annually for the Hepatitis Foundation. Outside of her time at work supporting brokers and providing prompt and efficient service to clients, Folkes is a proud soccer and cheer mom of two kids who enjoys jogging, baking and attending concerts.

Assurance has recognized its employees in this manner since 1993, with an expansion in 2010 to accommodate two employees annually as the agency grew. In addition to a cash bonus, employees' names are engraved on a commemorative plaque that resides in Assurance's Schaumburg headquarters. She is joined by Marketing and Communications Specialist Michele Fournier of Chicago who was also awarded this distinction.