Pine County Health & Human Services staffers Pat Neekem and Lisa Stoffel honored with state MSSA awards
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Summary
Pine County Health and Human Services recognized two employees — Pat Neekem and Lisa Stoffel — as Minnesota Social Services Association (MSSA) state award recipients for supervisory leadership and direct service excellence, respectively.
Pine County Health and Human Services recognized Pat Neekem and Lisa Stoffel with Minnesota Social Services Association (MSSA) awards during the Jan. 21, 2025 county board meeting.
Becky Fossum, director of Pine County Health and Human Services, introduced the honors and praised Neekem’s supervisory work. Staff members described Neekem as a seven‑year supervisor who fosters staff development, maintains a high‑performing work environment and supports employees’ professional growth.
Barb Schmidt, a program supervisor, presented the award to Lisa Stoffel, honored for excellence in direct service. Stoffel, who serves as a community services technician, runs a weekly drop‑in center for people living with mental illness and organizes community events, education and outreach. Schmidt described Stoffel’s work organizing mental health awareness events, taking clients to Mental Health Day at the State Capitol and running programming that includes education, meals and social supports.
Commissioners thanked the recipients and highlighted the community impact of their work. Board members said the county and its clients benefit from the staff’s long‑term commitment and noted the awards reflect broader county efforts in mental‑health outreach and support.