The Arc of Essex County continued its Arc Hero tradition on July 22 by surprising five exceptional staff members at their workplaces with the news that they had been selected as the organization’s second-quarter Arc Heroes of 2026. The recognition celebrates employees who go above and beyond in living The Arc’s values of collaboration, commitment, excellence, generosity, and respect.
The Q2 Arc Heroes are:
- Debra McGauley-Eichhorn, Creative Arts Manager
- Tyrone Jacobs, Residential Manager
- Esther Mensah, Direct Support Professional
- Emily Fernandez, Social Worker, Stepping Stones School
- Hope Haslam, Direct Support Professional
Each winner was nominated by coworkers who witnessed the extraordinary impact they have on the people supported by The Arc.
Debra McGauley-Eichhorn was recognized for her compassion during Studio Arc’s Mother’s Day Pop-Up Shop, taking the time to meet a Stepping Stones student where she was emotionally and ensuring she felt respected and included. Her nominator wrote that Debra’s actions “reflect the very best of Arc’s values.”
Tyrone Jacobs earned multiple nominations, and praise for the genuine compassion, dignity, and respect he shows every individual he supports, building trusting relationships that make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Esther Mensah was honored for her unwavering commitment to person-centered support and for consistently stepping up whenever help is needed. Her colleagues described her as a trusted, dependable presence who has become a cornerstone of her day program.
Hope Haslam received multiple nominations recognizing her kindness, dependability, advocacy, and willingness to go above and beyond. Her coworkers praised the warmth and positive energy she brings to the West Caldwell Group Home every day.
Emily Fernandez was celebrated for the countless ways she supports students and families beyond her official role, from translating for families and leading parent support groups to advocating for student safety and lending a hand wherever she’s needed. Her nominator described her as warm, professional, and a joy to work alongside.
The Arc Hero program, launched earlier this year, recognizes employees each quarter whose actions embody the organization’s mission of empowering abilities and enriching lives. Congratulations to all of our Q2 Arc Heroes, and thank you for making a difference every day.
The Arc Hero nominees during the second quarter of 2026 included:
Alexis Bolivar
April Bryson
Xiomara Castro
Minerva Delgado
Sharonda Garnes-Carraway
Sharline Griffin
Siavaughn Hardy
Shaniquah Harris
Kathy Hart
Christina Hernandez
Antonio Hernandez-Jones
Bishop Igomu
Matthew Kyle
Jasmine Medina
Shamirah Suggs-Morin
Tina Williams-Boyd