Maui Economic Opportunity’s Employee of the Quarter Noelani Jensen is the
first face many see when visiting MEO and often faces challenges as the
Receptionist directing clients to appropriate services.
One of her two nominators for the honor noted her ability to overcome
language difficulties.
“When people come to MEO to apply for assistance, they usually have
misgivings of how they’ll be treated,” said Sharon Shough, Enlace Hispano
specialist.
Noe greeted one of her clients “with kindness and directed him to the right
department, making him feel at ease despite the language barrier,” she
said. The client was “pleasantly surprised and relieved” by Noe and “very
appreciative of Noe’s flexibility when trying to convey why he was visiting
MEO.”
Her other nominator, Aloha Bailey, said that Noe’s “positive attitude,
professionalism and consistent willingness to help creates a supportive
environment for both her team and the office.”
“She ensures clients receive thoughtful, meaningful service and is always
smiling from start to finish,” Aloha added.
Noe joined MEO in September 2023 as a BEST (Being Empowered and Safe
Together) specialist, assisting recently released inmates to reintegrate
into the community. A month later, after the wildfires, she became a
National Dislocated Worker Grant employment specialist, helping wildfire
survivors find jobs with nonprofits doing restoration work in damaged areas.
She became MEO’s Wailuku office receptionist in April 2025.
The MEO Employee of the Quarter program is a peer-to-peer recognition that
awards and celebrates employees who live by MEO’s values and mission.
For being named Employee of the January-to-March Quarter, Noe earned a $150
check and an extra day off. Sharon and Aloha split $50 as her nominator.
The announcement was made at the staff general meeting on March 31.
Employee of the Quarter Noelani Jensen (middle) is flanked by CEO Debbie Cabebe (left) and COO Christy Chung.