Cashawna Cross Receives 2009 YMCA Black Achievers Award

Norwood, MA - (April 9, 2009) - Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, a multi-specialty physician practice with offices across eastern Massachusetts and an affiliate of Atrius Health, is proud to announce that Cashawna Cross, business analyst, has been selected by the YMCA of Greater Boston as a recipient of the 2009 YMCA Black Achievers Award. Cross is a resident of Norwood and a five-year employee of Harvard Vanguard.

The Black Achievers program recognizes African-Americans in the Boston area and regions served by 75 other YMCA organizations across the country. Award recipients are nominated for their professional accomplishments and their volunteer community service with young people. As part of the program, they agree to spend at least 40 hours to benefit area minority youth.

“Acknowledging the achievements of these dedicated men and women of our community is a celebration of the best that we all can be, not in terms of material success, but in terms of character and contribution to the greater good. Those are values of equal importance at home, at work and in the community,” said John M. Ferrell, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Boston.”

“At Harvard Vanguard we encourage our employees to excel professionally, and be positive role models in their communities,” said Dr. Gene Lindsey, president and CEO for Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates and Atrius Health. “Cashawna exemplifies Harvard Vanguard’s mission through her dedication to helping our patients and the wider community.”

Cross first joined the organization as a medical secretary and was promoted to administrative assistant. Cross was then promoted to her current position of business analyst. She is currently attending the Harvard University Extension School for a degree in liberal arts.

The YMCA of Greater Boston honored 40 business and community leaders at the 34th Annual Black Achievers Recognition Awards Gala on March 10 at the Boston Marriott Copley Place. The keynote address was delivered by Jackie Jenkins-Scott, president of Wheelock College and the emcees for the evening were Dr. Mallika Marshall and Byron Barnett.