Oswego County Opportunities Names Amelia Whelahan Leadership Award Nominees

FULTON – Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) Executive Director Kevin Dean has announced the nominees for the agency’s prestigious Amelia Whelahan Leadership Award.

The Amelia Whelahan Leadership Award is named after Amelia Whelahan who served on the original OCO Board and was President of the Board of Directors. This award is given to an OCO employee who demonstrates outstanding contributions to the field of human service, at OCO, in their community or in other organizations, has high ethical standards and conduct and is committed to their own learning and professional development.

Each year OCO recognizes talented individuals that have demonstrated leadership at an exemplary level that has led to their nomination for the Amelia Whelahan Leadership Award.

Following are the distinguished employees that were nominated for this year’s Amelia Whelahan Award:

Cali Sweeting

As OCO’s Service Delivery and Planning Coordinator Sweeting has been instrumental in securing funding, expanding programming and improving agency-wide data collection and reporting processes.  Sweeting has led complex initiatives that have increased access to services and improved organizational effectiveness, most notably through her leadership of the 1115 Medicaid Waiver program. Sweeting is recognized for her leadership, innovation and commitment to strengthening services. “Cali’s dedication to continuous learning and staff development reflects the long-term success of OCO,” said OCO Board President Jill Lyon.

Cherie Sardella

OCO’s Developmental Disabilities Services Assistant Director, Sardella is respected for her compassion, integrity, and unwavering advocacy for the individuals and staff she supports. Sardella has played a key role in supporting individuals to achieve greater independence, including guiding successful transitions that promote long-term stability and growth. “Cherie is known for treating everyone with kindness and respect and for leading with empathy, professionalism, and ethical integrity. Her daily leadership and engagement with agency committees and ongoing professional development helps to strengthen programs and reinforces OCO’s mission,” said OCO Executive Director Kevin Dean.

Monica Kyle

OCO’s School Age Coordinator Kyle is recognized for her leadership in expanding and enhancing youth programming throughout the Fulton community. She has been instrumental in implementing OCO’s vision for high-quality afterschool programming, expanding services to additional school sites and developing innovative program components that promote structure, engagement, and belonging for youth. “Monica is a strong mentor as she actively encourages professional growth, leadership development and career advancement within her team, said OCO Board President Jill Lyon. “In her work with youth families, staff and community partners Monica leads with honesty, accountability, and integrity.”

Jodie Williams-Blanchard

OCO’s Senior Financial Manager is recognized for her expertise and dedication to providing sound financial leadership. Known for her ability to navigate complex financial challenges with creativity and confidence, she keeps the needs of individuals at the forefront of her work, ensuring that budget decisions support quality services and regulatory compliance. “Jodie’s skill in developing, analyzing, and managing budgets has been instrumental in supporting OCO’s program expansion efforts and organizational sustainability,” said Lyon.

Denise Runeare

The winner of the 2026 Amelia Whelahan Ward is OCO’s Benefits Manager, Denise Runeare. Runeare is recognized for her steadfast advocacy for employees while safeguarding the agency’s responsibilities and compliance. Known for going above and beyond to support employees as they navigate complex benefits systems, Runeare often advocates directly with vendors and insurance providers to achieve positive outcomes. “Denise plays a critical role in the evaluation and administration of OCO’s benefit options that best serve both our employees and the agency,” said Dean. “Her commitment to continuous learning and her people-centered leadership strengthen OCO’s culture and support the well-being of the entire workforce.”

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