Service Award Pin
Be recognized for your dedication and time working in the nanny industry through our Service Award Pins.
Individuals who have been employed as a nanny, newborn care specialists, nanny educator, placement agency owner, business staff, or other industry business owner for 5 or more years (working a minimum of 24 hours per week) and are currently an INA member in good standing may apply for the INA Service Award Pin.
2025 Service Award Pin Recipients
Louise Dunham: Louise is the CEO of Placement Solutions, an In-Home Childcare firm, established in 1988. From 2022 Louise served on the ACEQUA advisory board to update In-home Childcare Standards to continue the work done in 2007 with the Senate Steering Committee in Australia. In 2022 Louise received the Meritorious Honour Award for 2022 presented by the INA. In 2022 and 2023 Louise ran INA Chapter meetings in Australia. In 2018, received APNA (Association of Premier Nanny Agencies) awards Agency Excellence and for Louise, a Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2016, Louise wrote, The State of The Nanny, and ran Nanny Palooza OZ together with Sue Downey. From 2012 until 2017 Louise served on the INA board, the first non-American and only Australian to do so. She served as Vice President and the Chair of the Ethics Committee. Louise is past VP of the Australian Home Childcare Association Inc. (AHCA) Board.
Kellie Geres: With over 35 years in private service, Kellie Geres is a distinguished industry veteran, specializing in working with divorced parents and transitioning to household management. She has been with her current family for over 21 years, initially as the children’s nanny before transitioning to full household management. Kellie remains active in the industry, holding various roles including APNA Administrative Assistant, where she manages day-to-day office operations and conference coordination. She is also the national co-chair for National Nanny Recognition Week (NNRW), and co-creator of Our Nanny Diary, offering digital downloads and printed diaries for nannies and parents. Kellie also volunteers for INA on the Board Nominations and NOTY Committees.
Tracey Chipps: Tracey launched her nanny career in 1994, capitalizing on her experience with Children’s Home Society and the Head Start Program to create a specialized niche. By integrating activities and routines from her classroom background, she acquired the nickname The Teaching Nanny among parents who valued her unique approach. For many years, Tracey focused on Kindergarten Readiness and Potty Training, working with children who had hearing loss, ADD/ADHD, and Autism. As a recognized industry leader, Tracey was invited in 2018 to write a chapter for Marcia Hall’s book, Nanny Basics and Beyond: What I Wish I Had Known All Along, exploring strategies for resolving conflicts in nanny-parent relationships. While children grow and evolve, adults also experience significant personal growth.
Starla Smith: Starla is the owner and president of Household Staffing, a leading high-net-worth domestic staffing agency. She has more than 30 years of experience in placing top candidates with exceptional homes nationwide.
Kim Morgan Smart: Kim is an internationally certified Newborn Care Specialist, Master NCS, and INA Credentialed Newborn Care Specialist. As a Pediatric Sleep Consultant, New Parent Educator, and Postpartum Doula, Kim brings a wealth of expertise and compassion to her work with families. A proud mother of two sons, Kim has dedicated her career to supporting parents in their journey through parenthood. In 2020, Kim was honored as the International Nanny Association’s Nanny of the Year, a testament to her commitment to excellence in childcare. She is the founder and owner of Ambiance Sleep Newborn Care Services, a nationwide in-home newborn care business providing 24/7 support, guidance, and education to new and expecting parents.
Jennifer Ghan: With over 25 years of experience as a dedicated nanny in New York City, Jennifer Ghan has had the privilege of working with high-profile individuals, providing exceptional care and support to families. Jennifer traveled with them domestically and internationally. Her journey in childcare is underpinned by her CPR and First Aid certifications, ensuring the utmost safety and well-being for the children in her care. Jennifer worked for families with children of various ages, including infants, toddlers, and school age children. Jennifer is a member of the International Nanny Association and have taken various nanny trainings, which enhance her knowledge in child development and milestones.
Jennie Krogulski: Jennie has dedicated 25 years to the nanny industry, blending compassionate childcare with love and professionalism. Her journey began in 2000, providing full-time care for families with demanding schedules, including high-profile and private clients requiring discretion. Over the years, she has worked with numerous families, offering personalized care tailored to each child’s needs, from newborns to school-aged children. Her experience also includes short-term placements, assisting families through transitions with skill and care. In 2007, Jennie founded Hilton Head Nannies LLC, a premier nanny agency renowned for its commitment to excellence and top-tier childcare referrals. As the owner and operator, she has built a highly respected business serving discerning families in Hilton Head Island and beyond.
Wendy Viloria: Nanny Wendy is more than just a nanny, she is a trusted caregiver, offering professional, compassionate, and expert care tailored to your family’s unique needs. With extensive experience caring for newborns and multiples, she specializes in sleep training, postpartum support, and creating nurturing routines that provide peace of mind for parents and a sense of security for children. Her nursing background, combined with assessments from the International Nanny Association (INA), ensures the highest standards of care, including expertise in CPR, First Aid, and special needs support. She is fluent in 3 languages, English, Spanish, and Italian, bridging cultures and providing a multilingual, nurturing environment for your little ones.
Tassecia Simpson-Little: Tassecia, affectionately known as “Sherry,” is a seasoned professional nanny with a solid 20 years of experience in childcare. Born on April 12th, 1980 on the island of Jamaica. She migrated to the United States at the age of 12, where she attended school through her first year of college. She is renowned for her dedication to fostering the growth and development of children, Tassecia is passionate about helping them become happier, healthier, and well-rounded individuals. As the founder of The Nanny Cards, a unique greeting card company, she celebrates the contributions of nannies and those who support them. A respected community organizer, Tassecia has hosted and presented at International Nanny Training Day in Westchester County, NY, since 2023. She was also named the 2021 NYC Mommybites Nanny of the Year and currently serves on the International Nanny Association Board of Directors.
Rachel Lawrence: Rachel has dedicated the past 20 years to the nanny industry in various roles, including nanny, placement counselor, agency owner, and former nanny employer. Her time as Operations Manager for the International Nanny Association (INA) and her two terms on the INA Board of Directors have allowed her to contribute to the industry’s growth and professionalism. Since joining HomeWork Solutions in 2019, she has focused on supporting families and nannies through education and advocacy. She also founded FairAndLegalPay.com, an industry coalition that brings together leading payroll companies, agency owners, industry nonprofits, and nannies to promote awareness of legal pay.
Greta Schraer: Greta has devoted over two decades to the childcare industry as a professional nanny, youth minister, nanny community director, and agency owner. In 2009, she founded CincyNanny as a community for career nannies in Cincinnati, offering training, playdates, social events, and peer support. In 2016, Greta expanded CincyNanny into a placement agency, connecting families with career nannies and mentoring families through the hiring process. She advocates for legal pay, excellent screening, and ethical practices in hiring. Her contributions to the nanny profession include nine years on the International Nanny Association Board, being named INA Nanny of the Year in 2010, and receiving the APNA Rising Star Award in 2021.
Danielle McLellan-Bujnak: Danielle is an INA-credentialed professional career nanny and Master NCS®, an award-winning and Amazon best-selling author, a seasoned professional development instructor and early childhood teacher educator, and an internationally recognized and published researcher in the field of inclusion in the early childhood workforce. Danielle has become a leading voice in the world of progressive child care, pioneering the Respectful Care® approach through her work providing contextualized professional development content for nannies and NCS. Her groundbreaking research, books, and presentations have made her an influential figure in early childhood care and education, representing nannies and NCS at local, regional, national and international conferences in the fields of education and mental health.
Cate Matijevich: Cate, from Chicago, Illinois, has worked in the domestic private service industry for over 15 years. Being a nanny and managing principal’s homes is her passion and brings joy beyond what she ever thought was possible. Cate is an avid learner always seeking the best solutions for children and their families. Continuing education is a priority for Cate and she currently attends Florida International University, pursuing her degree in Hospitality Management with a focus in HR and Leadership. Cate actively participates in events that support the nanny and greater domestic private service industry, including traveling internationally for conferences and events. Her desire to strengthen and grow industry relationships globally, is a proud goal. Cate also directs an Estate Management group that meets monthly to network and continue education.
Sianan Tierney: Sianan acts as one of the General Manager of Placement Solutions. She heads up our client services team and ensures that our great team of Nannies have the skills and resources that they need to get the most out of their work. Sianan is highly engaged in both the local and international Nanny and agency community, ensuring that Placement Solutions is ahead of their game in what they are able to offer their own community down under in Australia. Sianan is a qualified lawyer and is passionate about ensuring that Nannies and domestic staff are paid legally, treated fairly, and respected in the valuable work that they do. Sianan has worked with Placement Solutions on developing a professional development program for their employees that is reflective of the skills that she identifies as being relevant to our sector to better upskill her team, and be able to provide the most engaged, stimulated, and nurturing care to children
Rachelle Teycheney: Rachelle is a General Manager and a part owner of Placement Solutions, bringing over 22 years of experience in the childcare industry. Rachelle has spent the past 15 years specializing in the nanny sector, with expertise in business growth and development and placement services, connecting qualified nannies with families who need them most. Rachelle completed an MBA with a focus on leadership, human resources and innovation, equipping her with a robust business acumen. Rachelle has also made significant contributions by serving on Australian In-Home Care peak body committee, advocating for best practices and policy improvements within the industry. Her work includes leading in pilot programs, and contributions to reviews and audits aimed at improving standards in the Australian childcare industry.
Kearsti Hoke: Kearsti is a professional nanny and household manager with over 10 years of experience. Passionate about working with children of all ages, she excels in creating nurturing environments that promote growth and development. Known for her compassionate approach and strong communication skills, she is dedicated to supporting families by offering both childcare and logistical assistance, ensuring a balanced and harmonious home life.
Jeny Lynn: Jeny is a Professional Career Nanny of 15 years in Sonoma and Napa Counties. She specializes in the 6 months to 3 year age group. She hosts nanny meet ups and trainings in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Cedricka Prather: Cedricka is a passionate and devoted advocate for children, sowing the seeds for a future rooted in love and growth. With over twenty years of unwavering dedication to early childhood education, she has had the honor of guiding and nurturing hundreds of young minds, from infants to preschoolers. Her commitment goes far beyond the classroom — it is about cultivating a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where each child’s individual journey is celebrated and nurtured. Cedricka’s heart lies in fostering independence and fostering holistic development, ensuring that every child flourishes both academically and emotionally, today and in the years to come.
Amanda Simons: Amanda is a career nanny and NCS of 17 years. She has devoted her career to caring for the children in her care and loves her work.
Rebecca Pearcy: Rebecca is the Owner of the backup care agency Windsor House Care and the award-winning nanny placement referral agency Windsor House Nannies. She has over 16 years of experience working in the childcare industry and has been active in the nanny community since 2013. She is a member of and acted as Director of Agencies for the US Nanny Association from 2020 to 2022. She is a member of the International Nanny Association and the Association of Premier Nanny Agencies. Rebecca has been nominated twice for the Austin Under 40 Awards and once for the Profiles in Power Award. Even though she was born and raised in England, Rebecca has hung her cowboy hat in the state of Texas for the past 12 years.
Raven Carter: Raven is a dedicated childcare professional with over a decade of experience nurturing and educating children. Her career spans early childhood education, daycare, live-in and live-out nanny roles, and work as an ABA therapist. Raven’s passion for fostering safe, loving environments has shaped her holistic approach to caregiving, emphasizing emotional well-being, developmental growth, and inclusivity. As an active member of the International Nanny Association, Raven is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism. Beyond her hands-on experience, she is a mentor to aspiring nannies, helping them navigate their careers with confidence. Raven’s love for community building led her to co-found The Heart State Nanny Agency, which focuses on creating long-term connections between families and nannies.
Michelle Wreesman: Michelle is originally from New York City and has worked long term with NYC families. She has over 20+ years of professional childcare provider experience. She has traveled with families and prides herself in being discrete and confidential. Michelle also has a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, is certified in Child Development Associate, certification in Special Needs Children, CPR & First Aid certification, certification in Newborn Care Specialist, and many other certifications related to children and young adults. She is also a member of the International Nanny Association. Michelle has worked with children ranging from newborns to 18 years old and is accustomed to wearing many hats in the role. She has experience working with children with special needs and believes that every child is exceptional and unique.
Jaime Casseus: Jamie has spent the last 10 years cherishing the opportunities to work with such amazing families and their littles. She’s found joy in watching them grow, learn, and develop into such bright and happy young children ready to take on the world (what we know as kindergarten). Jaime has no plans of slowing down in her nanny career as it brings her joy and she wants to expand her career into a legacy.
Cristiane Vanover: Cristiane is an accomplished childcare professional with over 15 years of experience specializing in child development, education, and global outreach. She holds advanced degrees in Business Administration and Architecture and has completed specialized certifications in Child Development from Santa Monica College. Her relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in her dedication to continuous learning, having completed advanced courses in child nutrition (Stanford University), early education strategies, and water safety for caregivers. As an ambassador for the Uganda Orphanage, Cristiane seamlessly blends her professional expertise with a profound sense of global responsibility, positively impacting the lives of children in need.
Kyri Allison Maher: Kyri is the founder of For the Love Newborn Care, where she provides compassionate and customized perinatal support services. As a Certified Postpartum Doula (CPD) and Certified Newborn Care Specialist (CNCS), Kyri has extensive experience supporting children and families. What sets Kyri’s approach apart is her focus on making complex and often conflicting information accessible. Rather than just giving parents a list of do’s and don’ts, she helps them understand the reasoning behind different recommendations so they can make the best plans for their unique circumstances and preferences. Drawing on her background in clinical mental health, Kyri also uses gentle exposure techniques to ease parents’ anxieties around new routines and transitions.
Hannah Kuduk: Hannah is a career nanny specialized in the early childhood range with a passion for holistic, family-centered care. Hannah’s childcare style integrates art, music, nature, and a blend of Montessori and inquiry-based learning. She strives to nurture the growing emotional intelligence of each child, while honoring their individual authenticity and innate curiosity. Hannah’s nanny career began in 2016, blossoming from an adolescence spent tending to the young children in her mother’s in-home daycare. Throughout her dynamic career, she has especially enjoyed adventuring as a travel nanny, caring for sets of multiples, supporting families in a postpartum space, and utilizing her holistic nutrition education to provide nourishing home-cooked meals.
Davis Falconer: Davis is a professional private nanny who has been in the career field for ten years. She has dedicated the last decade to better understanding children and their brain development. As every child is different, Davis prides herself on taking the time to understand how the child she is working with learns and applies new and unique strategies for each individual child. Her passion is evident to all those around her.
Alexis Courtney: Alexis is a highly educated and experienced master newborn care specialist that specializes in working with High Profile and Ultra High Net Worth families that travel the world. Her parenting practice and teachings have strong roots in respectful care and places an emphasis on attachment theory in relation to infant and parent mental health. She works with her clients’ and their babies to develop a loving and respectful relationship they will maintain for the rest of their lives. Outside of Newborn Care, Alexis operates Harmony Baby Concierge, a Newborn Care & Infant Nanny Agency, with roots in Texas that contracts out with over 50 Newborn Care Specialists and places dozens of Nannies each year.
Aakash Goel: Aakash is the founder of Enginehire, an all-in-one business management software used by hundreds of nanny agencies around the world.
Find further information below including:
Each year at our Annual INA Conference, Service Award Pins are presented during the INA Service Award Pin Ceremony. For 2025, applications will be open from September 1, 2024 – February 20, 2025. Anyone who applies and is accepted to receive a pin will be recognized at the 2025 Conference. However, attendance at the conference is not required. If you are not able to attend the 2025 conference, your pin will be mailed to you following the conference. All 2025 recipients will be a part of the video introduction.
New Update: Members with anniversaries later in the year (anytime past conference) will now have the opportunity to be part of their anniversary year celebration at the INA Conference. To be eligible for 2025, please submit an application by the February 20, 2025 deadline at 5 p.m. EST. Don’t worry if you don’t make the deadline! Members are now able to apply year round and acknowledgement posts will be shared in the spring and fall!
2025 INA Service Award Pin are now open and you will need to do the following to qualify:
- Be a current INA member.
- Work legally in the country of employment within the in-home childcare industry for a minimum 1200 hours per year and be able to tell us the hours you’ve worked.
- Your anniversary year (in 5 year increments) falls within the calendar year in you are applying.
- Complete the digital form which includes general information, 3 references, a complete professional history, a bio of yourself in the 3rd person of around 200 words, and an
attestation that information given is correct. - Email a professional headshot of yourself with no selfies or other people in the photo PLUS two additional photos for the video.
Please note, that we have streamlined the application process so that all applicants will be able to include their work history and bio within the digital form instead of needing to send in separate documents. We have also created a work history and bio example so that everyone can see the information we need. As you apply please keep in mind that your work history will be taken from your first paid position in the industry as an adult (18 years-old) through the end of our application deadline.
We will create a video of all Service Award Pin Recipients in addition to recognizing those pin recipients that are present at our annual conference. All images should be submitted with your application. If these images have children in them, we will need to have the parent or legal guardian of that child fill out a Photo Release form.
The Service Award Pin application is FREE, available exclusively to INA Members, and NOW open year round. The INA will make announcements twice per year acknowledging recipients.
Need replacements? Replacement pins are $10. Extra bars are $5 each. Shipping is $5 for those not in attendance at the INA Conference.
If you have any questions, please reach out to our office at memberservices@nanny.org.
Pin History
The Harriette Grant Service Award Pin is presented to nannies and specialty nannies. This award pin, named in honor of Harriette Grant, reflects Harriette’s dedication to the nanny profession. Ms. Grant was a founding member of INA, a founding member of the Association of DC Area Nannies (ADCAN) and was selected as INA’s very first Nanny of the Year in 1990. Ms. Grant later went on to be a co-founder of the National Association of Nannies (NAN).
The INA Service Award Pin is presented to nanny educators, referral agency owners (or their staff), and business owners (or their staff) who serve the in-home child care industry.
The Service Award Pin program originated within the National Association of Nannies in 1995. Thanks to the dedication and generosity of past NAN members, the Service Award Pin concept will continue on within INA and will share the same goal of recognizing those within the in-home child care industry for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to professional excellence.
Previous Videos
2020 May
2022 May
2020 October
2025 May
2021 May
Professional History Example
All INA Service Award Pin applicants will need to include their professional history in their digital application.
- Owner at “The Company Name” : Start 9/2016 : Current : Full time //
- Nanny for NAME E Family : Start 8/2011 : End 8/2016 : Worked 180 hours a month //
- 8 month gap job hunting //
- Nanny for NAME D Family : Start 9/2009 : End 12/2010 : Worked 60 hours a month //
- Nanny for NAME C Family : Start 11/2008 : End 8/2010 : Worked 100 hours a month //
- 5 month gap for maternity leave //
- Nanny for NAME B Family : Start 3/2006 : End 6/2008 : Worked 200 hours a month //
- 1 year job outside of the in-home childcare industry //
- Nanny for NAME A Family : Start 1/2004 : End 3/2005 : Worked 160 hours a month //
Biography Example
All Service Award Pin applicants must provide a Biography in their digital application. This Bio must be written in 3rd person and under 200 words.
Third Person looks like:
Helen McCarthy is a Professional Qualified British Nanny (N.N.E.B) with over 28 years experience as a Nanny. She has devoted her career to the care of children at all stages of life, with all levels of needs.
Third person is NOT:
I am a Professional Qualified British Nanny (N.N.E.B) with over 28 years experience as a Nanny. I have devoted my career to the care of children at all stages of life, with all levels of needs. (first person)
You are a Professional Qualified British Nanny (N.N.E.B) with over 28 years experience as a Nanny. You have devoted your career to the care of children at all stages of life, with all levels of needs. (second person)