Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Diversity Officer
Mike Strohl
Senior Vice President, Chief Customer Officer
John Lucas
Vice President, Information Technology
Curtis Popp
Vice President, Customer Operations
COMPANY VISION:
Enhance the well-being of our customers, communities, and employees by providing unparalleled service now and for generations to come.
COMPANY MISSION:
We fulfill the Promise of the Trust to provide essential utility services for our customers and communities, maintain the lowest possible rates with sound financial management, and create the greatest long-term benefit through a unique business structure.
ENGAUGE
Engauge is published by Citizens Energy Group, Corporate and Public Affairs Department, under the direction of Shannon Stahley, Director of Corporate and Public Affairs. It is distributed to the company’s employees and retirees, and to other interested parties upon request. The Corporate and Public Affairs Department welcomes any ideas, comments, or suggestions from readers on how this publication might better serve you. Please email the Corporate and Public Affairs Department at alowe@citizensenergygroup.com or call 317.927.4336.
Editor: Adam Lowe
Contributors:
Marissa Bardo
Zoya Barker
Sara Flores
Alex Haberfield
Susan Harris
Melissa Hehmann
Kenya Perkins
Staci Turner
Terri Zaichek
Graphic Arts: Wayne Stohs
Joel Bustamante
Derek Doty Receives Healthy Citizen Award
Derek Doty, Environmental Field Tech, models the way of a Healthy Citizen by taking full advantage of the many opportunities here at Citizens Energy Group. He consistently participates in Wellness Challenges, blood drives, and company-sponsored events. His personal health journey is another way he embodies this award and is a prime example of the sayings “persistence pays off” and “slow and steady wins the race.”
Since his first health coaching session in October of last year, Derek has shown a quiet resolve to improve his health and an openness to learning new ways of looking at health beyond the number on the scale. Doing so has given him more energy, less anxiety, and an overall improved outlook on life. His patience with the process of incorporating healthy habits into his routine has not only brought about weight loss but has – more importantly – allowed him to feel better in his body every day.
Building consistent habits is hard work, and life can easily get in the way if one doesn’t find ways to weave new habits into normal life. Derek’s example to all employees is that patience and selfcompassion are just as important to crushing health goals as working out or eating more greens.
A Healthy Citizen is an individual nominated by a coworker who believes they have made a significant wellness achievement and should be recognized for their accomplishments. Winners are recognized in Engauge and receive a monetary award. Examples of a significant wellness achievement:
• Accomplishes significant health improvement
• Actively participates in onsite events and programs
• Supports and encourages healthy behaviors
• Models a healthy lifestyle
• Participates in community events related to health and wellness
Jeffrey Harrison poses for a selfie with the Citizens Move team at Indy Sports Corp’s Corporate Challenge.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Community Resource Day
Yvonne Perkins Legacy Fund Golf Outing
September 9
Every September, golfers gather at the Eagle Creek Golf Club to honor the late Yvonne Perkins and raise scholarship funds in her honor. Yvonne Perkins, who passed away in 2016, was a servant leader; a distinguished alumna of Indianapolis Public Schools and Butler University; a longtime Citizens Energy Group executive; and a tireless advocate for improving the quality of life in Indianapolis. As a tribute to her memory, the Fund continues impactful workforce development initiatives, enhancing access to meaningful educational and career opportunities while specifically reducing disparities for communities including veterans and members of reentry programs.
For More Information, Email Tracey Black: tblack@citizensenergygroup.com
State of the Trust
September 18
Citizens Energy Group’s annual State of the Trust address will be held this year at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Hosted by Jeffrey Harrison, President & CEO, as well as Citizens executive leadership, State of the Trust celebrates the close of the fiscal year and looks forward to the year ahead. State of the Trust is open to all Leadership Forum attendees, with a video recap and Talking Points shared via iTrust after the event.
For More Information, Email Adam Lowe: alowe@citizensenergygroup.com
Community Resource Day
October 4
In Central Indiana, more than 244,000 households are impoverished or at risk of poverty. Many members of our community lack access to essential resources, services, and information. Community Resource Day is an opportunity for our neighbors to easily access community organizations, local businesses, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and more. The goal is to connect Central Indiana residents to the resources they need to thrive. The event features food, fun, freebies, and so much more!
For More Information, Email Kenya McMillin: kmcmillin@citizensenergygroup.com
Health & Wellness Fair
October 14 – General Office
October 15 – Langsdale
MORE IMPORTANT DATES:
Benefit vendors will be on site to answer your questions ahead of Open Enrollment (November 3–18). Additionally, vendors will be available for flu and COVID immunizations, PSA screenings, and blood donations. Participate in the fair and earn Well Points! For
Citizens Holiday: Labor Day
September 1
National Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15 – October 15
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is October
IT Professionals Day September 16
National Working Parents Day September 16
HR Professionals Appreciation Day
September 26
National Custodian Day
October 2
Upcoming Trainings: Emotional Intelligence September 11
Situational Leadership (SLII) September 16-17 (two-day training)
The Leadership Challenge September 25, 30 (two-day training)
Building Trust
October 1
IT Preps Meals for Those in Need
Information Technology team members Scott Miller, Cameron Patterson, Abby Robbins, and Kenya Perkins spent the morning of Wednesday, May 28 volunteering at Second Helpings. The team led a magnificent effort, making a staggering 1,192 sandwiches as well as 365 individual meals and 260 family-sized portions—a total of 1,557 meals prepared and ready to go before their shift ended at noon. It really goes to show that volunteering even a little bit of time creates a lot of good for our community.
Citizens Energy Group Returns to the Corporate Challenge—And Brings the Heat!
After a long hiatus since the COVID pandemic, the EMPOWER team has ushered Citizens Energy Group to a triumphant return to the Indiana Sports Corporation’s Corporate Challenge—and we came back with a vengeance!
This year’s event was the largest in the history of the Corporate Challenge, with more than 7,000 employees from across Indiana participating in a wide range of athletic and team-building events. Citizens was proud to be part of this incredible turnout, with 34 employees stepping up to represent our organization.
And represent we did! Citizens earned three podium finishes:
• 1st Place in Basketball: Congratulations to Chaz Jennings and Jessica Sharp
• 1st Place in the Home Run Derby: Congratulations to Breann Cooper, Doug Payton, and Justin Reed.
• 2nd Place in the ½ Mile Run: Congratulations to Allison Walker for this outstanding performance!
“Citizens returning to the Corporate Challenge was a great choice! Bringing people together from all areas of the company to meet each other, work together, and have fun is exactly what we need in our modern virtual-based environments. Next year, we need to bring an even bigger group and show the other companies how strong we really are when we work together!” – Payton Staman
This year’s participation wasn’t just about competition; it was about community, camaraderie, and celebrating wellness and teamwork. The energy, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship shown by our team were truly inspiring. All participants were able to earn up to 75 wellness points for participating in the events this year.
A huge thank you to everyone who participated, cheered, and supported our return to the Challenge. Let’s carry this momentum forward and aim even higher next year!
Summer Celebration AT VICTORY FIELD
Citizens Energy Group’s annual Summer Celebration was held Friday, May 30 at Victory Field. More than 800 employees and their families attended. Jay Perkins, son of Joseph Perkins, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, threw out the first pitch. Jay plays with the Allisonville Challenger Baseball League, which provides adults with disabilities the chance to play and compete in the sport they love. The Indians triumphed over the Nashville Sounds 5-4 before the evening was capped off with a festive fireworks celebration.
CELEBRATING OUR 2025 GRADUATES
Chase Shurn, nephew of Tracye George, Systems Support Specialist III, graduated from Pike High School. Chase plans to attend Wabash College and major in psychology with a focus on athletes. Chase is eager to use his education to explore the psychological factors that influence athletic performance and develop strategies to help athletes overcome obstacles and succeed.
Carly Patterson, sister of Cameron Patterson, Software Engineer I, graduated from Indiana University, where she majored in merchandising and minored in marketing and fashion media. Carly is set to be a Merchandise Analyst at Lids Corporate.
Jillian Stafford, daughter of Barry Stafford, Automatic Meter Reading Technician, graduated from the University of Saint Francis as a Physician’s Assistant. Jillian plans to stay in Indianapolis as she pursues her future career.
Susana Gonzalez, daughter of Maria Vasquez, Billing and Receivables Manager Specialist II, graduated from Indiana University Indianapolis with a bachelor’s degree from the School of Elementary Education. Susana plans to work in Wayne Township School District as a Bilingual Elementary School Teacher.
John Rhorer, Construction Specialist IV, graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication with a Bachelor of Arts in mass communication, maintaining a perfect GPA and consecutively making the dean’s list. This summer, he will be studying abroad in Cuba, where he was chosen to study media, culture, and society with nine other students on a global and academic scholarship.
Jeffery Bales, Electric Mechanical Millwright, celebrated the graduation of three sons this year. Jacob Bales graduated high school and received the Achievement Award from the Central Nine Career Center in precision machining. Jacob plans to work for the Whiteland Cad & Machining Services as a Machinist. Jonah Bales graduated from Indiana Agriculture and Technology High School with technical honors. Jonah plans to work in the agricultural field with farmers while continuing to learn more about agronomy services. Jackson Bales graduated from Indiana Agriculture and Technology High School. Jackson plans to continue working in commercial construction while pursuing entrepreneurship.
McKenzie Taylor, daughter of Heather Taylor, Technical Specialist IV, graduated from the University of Indianapolis with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. McKenzie will be a Registered Nurse in the Eskenazi Hospital emergency department.
CELEBRATING OUR 2025 GRADUATES
Richard Morris, son of Del Morris, Manager of Steam Distribution, and Sara Mamuska-Morris, Vice President of Capital Programs and Engineering, graduated from Herron High School. He plans to attend Purdue University’s School of Engineering.
Trevor Bullock, son of Jeff Bullock, Technical Specialist III Gas, graduated from Ivy Tech Community College with an Associate of Science in business administration. Trevor plans to start a career with a well-established company and continue pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Henry Culver, son of Melissa Culver, Senior Distribution Dispatcher, graduated from Hamilton Southeastern High School. Henry plans to attend Ball State to pursue a degree in biology with minors in Spanish and accounting.
Molly Reece, daughter of Tom Reece, Systems Engineer II – Microsoft, graduated from Concordia UniversityNebraska with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. After getting married this summer, Molly plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to pursue a doctoral degree in mathematics.
Ava Shaw, granddaughter of Sherri Watts, Customer Support Specialist III, graduated from Hamilton Southeastern High School. Ava is already a licensed Certified Nursing Assistant, and she plans to attend the University of Indianapolis to pursue a nursing degree and intern at Riley Hospital for Children.
Alex Kramer, son of Daniel Kramer, Engineer V, graduated from Greenwood Community High School. Alex plans to attend Indiana Wesleyan University to major in engineering and play football.
Airic Hester, stepson of Wynde Hester, Customer Support Specialist III, graduated from Warren Central High School. Airic will attend the University of Saint Francis on a full-ride scholarship.
Morgan Saloane, niece of Michelle Dinkins, IT Test Specialist, graduated from Leland High School with a high school diploma and early associate degree in arts from Mississippi Delta Community College. She has enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard and will complete 13 weeks in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, before returning to attend Delta State University as a junior to major in biology and minor in travel nursing.
CELEBRATING OUR 2025 GRADUATES
Sydney Holstein, stepdaughter of Christopher Higginbotham, Maintenance and Plant Relief Operator II, graduated from Lapel High School with academic honors. Sydney plans to attend Butler University to pursue a degree in business finance.
James Andrews, son of Tracy Andrews, Systems Support Specialist I, graduated from IUPUI with a Bachelor of Science in political science and a paralegal certificate. James is now exploring opportunities for full-time work.
Hallie Tuvell, stepdaughter of Stephanie Tuvell, Technical Specialist VII Gas, graduated from Ball State University’s Miller College of Business with a double major in marketing and management & leadership. Hallie is eager to apply her learned skills and experience in her future role while growing as a professional and making a positive impact. Stephanie’s stepdaughter Jayde Tuvell graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in speech language pathology. Jayde plans to continue her academic journey at The George Washington University to pursue a master’s degree in speech language pathology.
Riley Bennett, son of Jim Bennett, Manager of Gas Distribution, graduated from Trine University where he studied mechanical engineering and aerospace. Riley plans to work in the aerospace industry.
Nick and Ryan Payton, sons of Doug Payton, Operations and Maintenance Supervisor, graduated from Martinsville High School. Nick plans to become a lineman and Ryan plans to become an electrician.
Jason Williams, husband of Valarie Williams, Customer Support Specialist II, graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Science in organizational leadership. Jason has a versatile skill set that prepares him for roles focused on team management, strategic planning, and organizational development. Jason would like to have a senior leadership role as a director of operations or project manager for an organization.
Stafan Allen, son of Michael Allen, Associate General Counsel, graduated from Vincennes University with an associate’s degree in aviation flight technology (commercial pilot’s license). Michael’s son Boone Allen graduated from Ivy Tech Community College’s Home School Dual Enrollment Program. Stafan plans to pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot while also completing a bachelor’s degree in aviation management from Purdue University, and Boone plans to continue his college studies and ultimately pursue a degree from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business.
CELEBRATING OUR 2025 GRADUATES
Hannah Waggoner, daughter of Alan Waggoner, Manager of Compression and Purification, graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in visual arts/animation. Hannah plans to work in advertising or 3D medical animation and is currently working on independent film projects with her classmates.
Rachel Baker, daughter of Nicholas Baker, Automatic Meter Reading Technician, graduated from GreenfieldCentral High School with academic honors. Rachel plans to attend Indiana University Indianapolis to become an anesthesiologist assistant.
Katirena Freitag, daughter of Beverly Freitag, Billing and Receivables Management Specialist III, graduated from Indiana University Bloomington, where she majored in human biology with a minor in psychology. Katirena has recently applied to physician assistant schools and is currently working in an emergency department as a medical scribe.
Janay Simpson, daughter of Charisse Simpson, Contact Center Clerk, graduated from Ben Davis High School. Janay plans to attend IUPUI to pursue a Bachelor of Science in physics.
Dani Jackson, daughter of Krista Sinclair, Manager of New Business, and stepdaughter of Jeff Sinclair, Director of Market Development, graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in business administration.
plans to pursue a career in human resources.
Gavin Thornton, son of Tiffany Thornton, Operation Coordinator II, graduated from Ben Davis High School. Gavin plans to pursue a career in aviation.
Dani
Benefits Corner
Preventative Care
Taking a proactive approach to your health through preventative care helps you stay healthy, avoid serious illness, and reduce healthcare costs.
• Free Checkups: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield covers your annual physicals, preventive screenings, and shots at 100 percent, so you don’t have to pay a dime. It’s all about keeping you healthy without the extra cost.
· Need a primary care provider or want to explore preventive care options? Visit www.anthem.com or download the Sydney Health app to find care on the go.
• Dental and Vision Perks: With Delta Dental, you get preventive and basic dental care, plus orthodontia coverage. For your eyes, benefits are available through Blue View Vision (included in medical) and Delta Vision (optional).
· Dental: Find an in-network provider at www.deltadentalin. com or download the Delta Dental app to schedule your visit.
· Blue View Vision through Anthem: www.anthem.com
· Delta Vision using the VSP network: www.vsp.com
• Earn Rewards: The Well Points program lets you earn points for doing things like getting your annual physical, dental exams, and eye exams.
· Log in to your Well Points account at ceg.medikeeper.com or use the Alaveda app to track your rewards.
Annual Physical
· Employee: 400 CORE Well Points
· Spouse: 200 Well Points Dental Exams (up to two per year)
· Employee: 100 CORE Well Points each
· Spouse: 50 Well Points each
· Annual Eye Exam
Employee: 100 CORE Well Points
· Spouse: 50 Well Points
Employees and spouses can stay in the up to date on benefit changes, deadlines, and more with Citizens Connect. Scan the QR code to create your own account. Go to Settings to add your phone number or email address to get started.
Health & Wellness Fair (Open to Employees, Spouses and Retirees)
Benefit vendors will be on site to answer your questions ahead of Open Enrollment (November 3–18). Additionally, vendors will be available for flu and COVID immunizations, PSA screenings, and blood donations. Participate in the fair and earn Well Points!
October 14, 2025
General Office: Auditorium from 11:30am – 2:30pm
October 15, 2025
Langsdale: Garage from 7:30am – 10:30am
Can’t attend in person? Join the Virtual Health & Wellness Fair on Citizens Connect during October! Earn Well Points by completing the virtual fair tiles. Please note: Well Points can be earned for either in-person or virtual participation, but not both.
CITIZENS FOR GOOD: VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Our volunteer spotlight is a chance to meet a Citizens Energy Group employee who is making a big impact in the community outside of their job. Citizens employees are encouraged to volunteer at Citizens-sponsored events, or at community organizations of their choice.
Meet Keaton Holsinger, Environmental Specialist I
Keaton Holsinger began his career with Citizens in September 2023. As an Environmental Specialist in the Environmental Stewardship department, Keaton manages Citizens Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure program, which aids in preventing petrol spills into local waterways. Earlier this year, Keaton took on responsibilities in the Industrial Pretreatment Program, which aims to limit pollutants being discharged from local industries into Citizens wastewater system.
Keaton has been a regular at Citizens-sponsored volunteer activities since the start. He shares, “Many people in the community live with a more challenging quality of life, whether it be due to health, lack of support systems, or socio-economic status, and I feel it is the responsibility of those who can to help lift them up. Volunteering strengthens a community and brings about a better quality of life, and helping people by volunteering can create a huge sense of fulfillment for the person volunteering as well.”
What Citizens events have you volunteered for? What has been your favorite?
I have been lucky enough to volunteer at Sharing the Dream, White River Cleanup, Garfield Park Earth Day, SAWs – Servants at Work wheelchair ramp build, Bowen Day of Service, The Greatest Spectacle in Pickleball, and the 10 Thousand Trees planting, to name a few.
It’s a tough decision to pick a favorite! I would say it is between Garfield Park Earth Day and Sharing the Dream. Garfield Park Earth Day is a great opportunity to inform the community of all the cool things we are doing at Citizens, from infrastructure improvements to environmental sustainability.
As a huge supporter of Indy Parks, Sharing the Dream is also very near and dear to my heart. Not to mention, it was one the first Citizens volunteer opportunities I attended, which was when I realized how caring and dedicated Citizens employees are.
What has been your most rewarding experience volunteering?
My most rewarding experience volunteering was at the Garfield Park Earth Day this year. A father and his adolescent daughter stopped by our table and asked some questions regarding DigIndy and how it has improved the quality of our local waterways. Throughout the conversation, you could see their faces light up with interest and a curiosity to learn. There is something so moving when you connect with someone by sparking their curiosity to acquire knowledge, which is why that small exchange was so rewarding.
What contribution or achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my contribution to the 2025 Sharing the Dream at Municipal Gardens. This was my first year serving as a team captain and I am so proud of what our team was able to accomplish, specifically all the skilled painting the team completed.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering alongside your Citizens coworkers?
There are three major highlights for me when it comes to volunteering alongside Citizens coworkers. First, it is a great opportunity to get to know the coworker outside of day-to-day interactions. I feel that I learn more about a Citizens coworker in an hour of volunteering as I would an eighthour workday. Second, volunteering is a great chance to meet employees from other departments who you may not interact with regularly. This allows you to get an idea of what other departments are responsible for and creates a point of contact within other departments that you wouldn’t regularly interact with. Third, and most important to me, volunteering with coworkers can create understanding and trust between each other, which is extremely beneficial within the workplace.
VOICES of the CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Owning the customer experience is a cornerstone of Citizens success and is vital to fulfilling our promise as a Public Charitable Trust. We are thrilled to offer this new column, Voices of the Customer Experience, dedicated to shining the spotlight on employees who strive to ensure our customers – both external and internal – receive the best experience possible. Their commitment, hard work, and passion for excellence not only drive our business forward but also create a positive and lasting impact on everyone they interact with. Join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals who truly embody the spirit of Citizens!
Scott Ritter ENGINEER V
Rich Miller TECHNICAL SPECIALIST III -GAS
“I wanted to take a second to relay my appreciation for Scott Ritter. He’s always prepared, professional, and provides value to every meeting he attends. He and Rich Miller are two of the best utility representatives in the industry.”
Jeff McCaskill UTILITY SERVICE SPECIALIST
The dedication we at Citizens have to enhancing the well-being of our communities can also extend to those who don’t have a voice. On July 8, Jeff responded to a rather unique call: baby ducks trapped in a storm drain in McCordsville. He promptly arrived at the call and assisted the Vernon Township Fire Department in removing the storm grate, allowing the baby ducks to be successfully rescued and reunited with their mother.
Zoya Barker CULTURE AND INCLUSION SPECIALIST
– Johnathon Nail, Director of Public Works, City of Westfield
“Zoya did a very nice job researching presenters and coordinating the DEI Real Conversations event for Celebrate Diversity Month. Her preparation for this event and interaction with all parties involved was very thorough. I’ve received a great deal of positive feedback for another successful event. Thank you for a job well done!”
– CSA Impression for Citizens Values in Action from Tamiko Kendrick, Director Inclusion and Talent Development
NEW EMPLOYEES
Matthew Allen Corporate Support Services
Leah Alreed Corporate Support Services
Marissa Bardo Corporate Support Services
Carson Brechner Corporate Support Services
Mary Bryja Corporate Support Services
Darren Buffington Corporate Support Services
Craig Collins Wastewater
Kadiatou Diallo Corporate Support Services
Logan Douglas Wastewater
Allison Ehlers Corporate Support Services
Cort Guy Gas
John Hauser Water
Thawng Hmung Corporate Support Services
Taylor Lantz Corporate Support Services
Zachary Litteral Wastewater
Eli Lyons Corporate Support Services
Bartholomew McFarland Wastewater
Havilah Illuri Samuel Corporate Support Services
Ava Grace Jalaie Corporate Support Services
Kobe Jenkins Corporate Support Services
Larry Johnson Corporate Support Services
Anvi Kute Corporate Support Services
Karla Omana Corporate Support Services
Alex Ramey Wastewater
Parker Reece Corporate Support Services
Chelsea Roundtree Corporate Support Services
Everoll Royal-Dixon Corporate Support Services
Rubadue Water
Nick Saling 5522-Underground Maintenance
Evan Sipes Gas
Nicholas Smock Corporate Support Services
Julun Staggs Corporate Support Services
Megan Stamper Corporate Support Services
Brenasha Strong Corporate Support Services
Ronald Wood Corporate Support Services
Veronica
MEET
Shannon Rogier
HR GENERALIST I
Shannon Rogier joined the Citizens team in February 2022. As an HR Generalist, Shannon is responsible for providing support to employees across the Trust through recruiting, onboarding, and employee relations. She shares, “My favorite part of the job is calling a candidate and making them a job offer. Knowing that I am helping change someone’s life is a feeling that never gets old for me.” Shannon is also heavily involved with Citizens chapter of Toastmasters, having served as Secretary and most recently as Vice President of Public Relations. Toastmasters inspires people to confidently communicate, and Shannon looks forward to collaborating internally to increase awareness of the club and help fellow employees find confidence in speaking and presenting.
What attracted you to Citizens?
I was attracted to the true value that we provide the residents of Indianapolis. With the water, natural gas, thermal, and wastewater services we provide, we are the backbone of this terrific city.
What do you enjoy about your job?
I truly love helping people and solving problems. My friends and family repeatedly hear about how much I love my job and company.
What do you appreciate about working at Citizens?
I appreciate the collaboration within and between departments. I truly believe that consulting with other areas opens our eyes to other possibilities and makes us a stronger organization.
What is your favorite place to travel?
London, England. It is a true blend of historical and contemporary landscape, history, and architecture. As a Harry Potter fan, I knew the story was based in the UK but did not realize how many tributes there would be to the series throughout the city. As a fan, I truly appreciated the opportunities to visit filming locations at King’s Cross Train Station, Tower Bridge, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, and the Millennium Bridge.
I also learned there is a statue of Abraham Lincoln in London’s Parliament Square. It was a gift from the United States as a sign of friendship to this nation across the pond.
Shannon is seen in photos with friend Ellen Smith, as well as her border collier, Fenrir.
Quality Corner
CLASS Belt Certifications
YELLOW BELT
Trust-wide Internship Program
• Project Leader: Zoya Barker (Human Resources)
• Executive Sponsor: Tamiko Kendrick
• Team Members: Tony Cunningham, Misty Douglas, Payton Staman, Justin Burnett, Shannon Rogier, Laura O’Brien, Ebony Sansing, Bridget O’Connor
Zoya’s project established a repeatable internship program for the Trust, allowing various business areas to host interns beyond the Capital Programs & Engineering Summer Program. The process was launched in January 2025 at Leadership Forum. In collaboration with Social Media Relations Strategist Chrissy Bruns, an intern recruitment campaign was rolled out across social media platforms, with interviews conducted between March and April.
HAZMAT
Hands-On Training Improvements
• Project Leader: John Havard (Environmental Stewardship)
• Executive Sponsor: Ann McIver
• Team Members: Nathan Wright
John’s project improved the logistics for HAZMAT Hands-On Training equipment management. The time required for training at a plant site decreased from 15 hours to 5.5 hours after implementing the improvements.
Branded Materials Purchasing
• Project Leader: Wayne Stohs (Corporate & Public Affairs)
• Executive Sponsor: Shannon Stahley
• Team Members: none
Wayne’s project created a process for ordering branded materials to ensure consistency across the Trust. A new policy and a Citizens Brand Advisory Council were established to oversee and approve branded products. Area supervisors and managers are responsible for training and policy compliance.
Tracking Donations and Improving Experience
• Project Leader: Shannon Frederick (Corporate & Public Affairs)
• Executive Sponsor: Shannon Stahley
• Team Members: Nathan Jeffery, Gillian Marks, Alex Haberfield, Adam Lowe, Jennifer Mentink
Shannon’s project created a centralized process to track 100 percent of donors participating in events or making in-kind donations, replacing the eight to 10 spreadsheets used previously. The initiative aims to improve donor engagement and streamline manual tasks.
Hydrant Testing Process
• Project Leader: Madison England (Water Distribution)
• Executive Sponsor: Paul Dicken
• Team Members: Darrell Edwards, Kevin Brown, Mike Elliott, Bill Adams
Madison’s project aimed to enhance hydrant testing productivity, which had dropped by 50 percent after transitioning from PCAD to KloudGin in November 2023. An ArcGIS Hub was developed with dashboards to track and improve productivity.
John Havard
Wayne Stohs
Shannon Frederick
ADVANCED YELLOW BELT
Obsolete Inventory
• Project Leader: Rebecca Schaefer (Supply Chain)
• Executive Sponsor: Craig Jackson
• Team Members: Arlene Johnson, Justin Goffinet, Jason Clark, Marcia Patterson, Nick Kuntz, Joni Staten, Daphne Chiu, Tom Price, Christina Clark, Tim Gerardot
Rebecca’s project standardized the process for identifying and writing off obsolete inventory, ensuring inventory value matches actual usage. A pilot project from November 2024 to February 2025 evaluated 25 items with on-hand value more than $25,000 for Citizens Wastewater Authority and Steam. Work instructions and a standard operating procedure were created for updating Citizens inventory management software.
Standardize Electric Power Forecasting
• Project Leader: Tom Price (Accounting)
• Executive Sponsor: Phil Zbojniewicz
• Team Members: Ed Bukovac, Christina Clark, Todd Fuller, Nicole Keith, Chris Kennedy, Justin Redman
Tom’s project developed a consistent process for electric power forecasting, explaining assumptions and variances. A shared rate sheet was created for budget forecasting using historical data to aid the annual budget from a rolling forecast. The template provides detailed rate and usage information to analyze changes in electric costs.
Recently Completed Just Do It (JDI) Projects
Just Do It projects are a great way to continuously improve something where the solution is already known. This doesn’t mean it necessarily has to be a quick or simple project, it just doesn’t go through the DMAIC process. But Just Do It projects can make a big impact in efficiency and savings. All completed Just Do It projects can be found on Quality’s CI Activities and Completed Projects page.
• Revenue Allowance Calculation – Tom Price (Accounting)
• Develop Daily Customer Report for Ingredion – Mike Bartone (Gas Supply)
• Citizens Style Guide – Adam Lowe (Corporate & Public Affairs)
• Increase Basin Cleaning Efficiency – Harry Harris (Water Production)
• Safety Tagging System Annual Review Process – Leo Sparks (Thermal Operations)
• Early Audits on WT and WW Main Extension Projects – Brad Hostetler (Underground Engineering & Construction)
• Reduction of Overflow on Grit Line – Danny Powers (Westfield Operations)
• Reduce Centrifuge Downtime – Danny Powers (Westfield Operations)
• Improve Gas Revenue Budget Accuracy – Christina Clark (Accounting)
• Reduce Energy Usage at Southport Raw Sewage Well – Monty Sawyer (Wastewater Operations)
May Yellow Belt Training
From left to right: Ben Warren, Lavashia Primus, David Call, Robert Cross, Stuart Donaldson, Celia Whisler, David Peck, Brian Campbell, Tom Ward
In Memoriam
We are saddened to report the recent passing of six retirees.
Donald Burns on July 28, 2025. Donald retired on April 1, 1999, after 32 years of service.
George Heavilin on July 24, 2025. George retired on June 29, 2007, after 33 years of service.
David Lolla Martinez, on June 25, 2025. David started working for Citizens Energy Group on November 26, 2018, and served as a Water Production Electrician at Riverside.
Orval Moore on June 13, 2025. Orval retired on October 1, 2015, after 14 years of service.
Lisa Oaks on July 11, 2025. Lisa retired on January 31, 2025, after 24 years of service.
Aaron Pitman on July 6, 2025. Aaron retired on April 1, 2016, after 36 years of service.
