For more than two decades, Harlan Ward has demonstrated what dedication, hard work, and perseverance can accomplish. Since beginning Employment Services with JM Murray in 2005, and transitioning those services to Southern Tier Connect (STC) in 2018, Harlan has built an impressive employment history, achieved many personal goals, and created a life centered on independence and accomplishment.
Throughout his 21-years in Employment Services, Harlan has gained valuable experience in a variety of roles, including staining furniture at GSG Vincent and working at a local recycling center. Today, he is employed at the New York State Department of Transportation rest area in Preble, NY, where he has worked for the past 14 years. Known for his strong work ethic, Harlan consistently goes above and beyond expectations. One example involved a damaged trash can that he voluntarily repaired on his own time, demonstrating his initiative and pride towards his work. During the holidays, Harlan and his coworkers help transform the rest area into a festive destination, decorating for Christmas, welcoming Santa to visit children, and even dressing themselves as elves. His dedication has earned him numerous recognitions over the years, including the 2024 NYSID Outstanding Performer Award, Staff of the Year, and multiple longevity awards. This year, Harlan will celebrate another major milestone with 15 years at the Preble rest area. His leadership qualities have also been recognized by JM Murray which invited him to participate in quarterly intercommunication meetings with company executives. JM Murray leadership has expressed enthusiasm about transitioning him into a supervisory position in the future.
“Quote,” said Employment Specialist Paula Niederholfer.
Beyond his career, Harlan has accomplished many personal goals, including purchasing his first home, earning his driver’s license, and proudly owning multiple cars, a 2020 Hyundai Tucson Sport and a 2025 Hyundai Tucson Limited. Since marrying his wife, Kayrn, in 2017, the couple has enjoyed building a life together and taking pride in maintaining and improving their home.
While Harlan’s accomplishments are a testament to his work ethic, he credits his support team’s guidance and encouragement for helping him achieve these milestones. One of those supporters is STC Care Coordination Manager Nick Peters.
Based in STC’s Cortland office, Nick helps members coordinate healthcare, benefits, and other services that support their well-being. For Harlan, that assistance has been valuable when navigating complex healthcare and Medicaid requirements. Because Harlan does not receive Social Security benefits, annual Medicaid recertification requires additional documentation and coordination. Nick ensures Harlan understands the requirements, organizes information, and assists with scheduling appointments.
Nick has also assisted Harlan with access to dental appointments close to home, coordinating physical therapy services, and navigating other healthcare-related concerns.
The support Nick provides extends beyond his work with Harlan. Throughout his career at STC, two accomplishments continue to stick out to him. Among those is helping two members successfully transition into a residential setting that better meets their needs. Nick has also seen the impact that coordinated healthcare can have on a person’s quality of life. In one case, he worked with a member who was visiting the emergency room more than 100 times each year. By helping coordinate services and supporting changes to the members’ medication management at home, those emergency visits were dramatically reduced, improving both health and daily stability.
Experiences like these reinforce Nick’s belief in the importance of personalized support and helping members achieve greater independence. The partnership among Harlan, Nick, and Paula demonstrates how determination and encouragement can help people reach their goals. Together, they helped Harlan continue to reach new milestones and build the life he wants.