Heidi DeSandre

We would like to nominate our Forensic Interview Technician Heidi DeSandre for Utah County Employee of the Month in recognition of her outstanding dedication, teamwork, and resilience. Heidi has had the opportunity twice this year to cover for teammates on maternity leave, taking on additional responsibilities (like traveling between our two Centers multiple days each week) not only with a positive attitude but a remarkable work ethic. Managing a complex job such as hers that includes numerous interviews (106 last quarter to be specific) with children who have experienced some type of trauma, she demonstrates patience, poise, and an ability to stay organized under pressure. Her willingness to rise to every challenge ensures that our team continues to run smoothly, providing considerate care to not only the children but also their caregiver, our MDT, and her co-workers. Beyond her day-to-day casework, Heidi has taken on a central role in supporting an international research project that is looking into best practices in interviewing child victims of abuse. This initiative requires careful preparation, synthesizing and coding information, and contributing insights back to the research team. Heidi’s diligence in this area has been vital to the project’s early success. Her ability to balance the detailed demands of research with the immediacy of family services showcases her adaptability and determination. Heidi’s high levels of expertise and her steady presence make her a trusted partner to both colleagues and external partners. She establishes strong working relationships that foster open communication and collaboration, ensuring every voice at the table is valued. By creating an environment of trust and respect, Heidi strengthens the effectiveness of the team and helps guide decision-making in a thoughtful and inclusive way. It’s not just Heidi’s knowledge and drive that make her shine, but also the genuine empathy she brings to every interaction. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that no detail is overlooked, and no one is left without support. Her adaptability, positivity, and collaborative spirit make her a vital asset to our organization and all of Utah County.