February 25, 2025

Each February, one Nova associate is honored with our prestigious Steward of the Year award

Each February, one Nova associate is honored with our prestigious Steward of the Year award. This annual award recognizes an associate who has gone above and beyond to embody our core values (Act with Passion, Work Together, Be Accountable and Build Trust), while contributing to the success of Nova and our High-Performing Team culture as we deliver innovative self-funded health benefit solutions to employers across the country.

The recipient of the 2025 Steward of the Year award, Nikki R., does all of that and more, according to her colleagues, who submitted two separate nominations on her behalf. Nikki, an advocate-operations, was nominated by her direct supervisor, Prisilla O., manager, operations, and a member of their extended team, Karen J., client account manager.

"I am nominating Nikki for Steward of the Year because of her exceptional growth and contributions since being promoted," Prisilla detailed in her nomination."Nikki has demonstrated remarkable technical proficiency and outstanding soft skills, making her an invaluable asset to our team. Her approachable nature and willingness to support her colleagues have fostered a positive and collaborative work environment. Nikki’s ability to balance technical tasks with interpersonal interactions has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, making her a standout leader within our organization."

 "On a daily basis Nikki offers her assistance to her team (the claims analysts, customer service reps, client services, enrollment - Flex and ECI-Enrollment, and others at Nova) on questions concerning clients, products, and IRS guidelines, noted Karen. "When responding to questions posed to her in person or by email/IM, she replies with the information needed to teach the person asking the question and never makes the person asking the question to feel like he/she does not have the time to assist them."

Nikki is focused on making sure members have the best experience, through open, consistent communication.

"Communication is key. Up, down or across the chain, Nikki communicates to the team frequently. She will not hesitate to ask a question, answer a question, or share knowledge. From the bottom up - enrollment is the start of the member experience." Prisilla added. "Nikki's proactive problem-solving and adaptability ensure that her team remains agile and effective, addressing issues promptly and efficiently."

All nominations were evaluated by a selection committee that comprised representatives from various levels across the company.

Congratulations to Nikki, our 2025 Steward of the Year and all our deserving nominees:

·       Anita B., nominated by Laura S.

·       Corinne D., nominated by Molly H.

·       Durann D., nominated by Lorene B.

·       Erica D., nominated by Barb G.

·       Jolene M., nominated by Sara F. & Todd M.

·       Lynn F., nominated by Liz T.

·       Manny G., nominated by Tracey B.

·       Nikki O., nominated by Dorine L.

·       Sara F., nominated by Breann P., Christine C., Jenna C., Jolene M., Lauren G. & Will H.

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