During our first quarter 2026 nationwide Values in Action award ceremony, we came together to recognize the individuals across WeDriveU who are setting the standard for how we operate and bringing our values to life every day.

As CEO Erick Van Wagenen shared, “We are here to thank the people across WeDriveU who are putting in the work every day and to recognize those who are setting the standard for how we operate.”

Each quarter, these awards honor team members who exemplify our core values: Operational Excellence, Safety, Innovation, Sustainability, Community, and Teamwork. These individuals represent the best of our company and the impact our people make across the country. Please join us in celebrating our honorees.

WeDriveU Operational Excellence Award: Ronnie Sanchez, Bus Operator | San Jose, CA

Operational excellence is not just about performing at a high level; it’s about helping others rise to that same standard.

Ronnie Sanchez, a driver for our global financial services client’s employee shuttles, consistently goes above and beyond by mentoring and supporting fellow team members, especially those new to the role. Known for his professional pride and leadership by example, Ronnie takes the time to coach others, check in regularly and ensure his teammates feel confident and supported in their roles.

By proactively guiding and developing his colleagues, Ronnie has elevated the performance of his entire team.

His commitment to mastery and mentorship reflects true excellence in action.

WeDriveU Safety Award: Jessie Westbrooks, Lead Road Supervisor | Chicago, IL

When a request came in to help locate a passenger, Jessie Westbrooks, a road supervisor supporting our Pace paratransit service, immediately stepped into action. He aligned supervisors, dispatch, and managers to support a fast, citywide search effort.

His clear, calm communication kept everyone aligned and focused under pressure, helping drive a safe resolution.

Jessie maintained constant communication, directing the response with a steady hand until the passenger was found safe. His decisive action and steady leadership throughout this situation embody the vigilance our safety mission demands. Jessie’s actions demonstrate that safety is not just a policy, it’s a promise to protect people when it matters most.

WeDriveU Community Award: Richard Rountree, Shuttle Driver | Philadelphia, PA

Richard Roundtree, a driver for our Ronald McDonald House of Philadelphia shuttle program, understands that community is built in the moments when people are the most vulnerable.

After a passenger experienced a medical emergency during transit, Richard did far more than complete the trip.

He personally escorted the passenger into the hospital, briefed the medical staff on the situation, and ensured the individual was safely in professional care before departing.
His compassion and attentiveness earned special recognition from the Ronald McDonald House team, who praised his extraordinary professionalism.

Richard’s actions are a reminder that our service goes beyond transportation; it’s, at its heart, about caring for people.

Innovation Award: Jillian Nguyen, Marketing | Durham, NC

Innovation is the art of finding better ways to serve and solve problems with purpose.

From day one, Jillian Nguyen began transforming how our GoDurham Access team connects with our riders and our community.

Within two months of stepping into her role supporting Marketing for our paratransit and microtransit program, Jillian researched, designed and launched a fully updated website experience for GoDurham Access, revamped mobility guides and refreshed rider-facing information to make services more accessible than ever. Beyond the digital space, Jillian conducted grassroots research at senior centers and other rider touchpoints to better understand how passengers engage with transit resources, using that feedback to improve communication materials and outreach strategies.

Her proactive approach, creativity and rider-first mindset have earned consistent praise from our clients and significantly elevated the paratransit and microtransit rider experience across the Durham region.

Sustainability Award: Barbara Yarborough, Safety Manager | Durham, NC

Barbara Yarborough is redefining what local sustainability looks like.

She spearheaded an on-site, year-round recycling initiative at our Customer Service Center in Durham that gives a second life to items that would otherwise be lost to landfills. Through the program, WeDriveU employees’ old cell phones are refurbished into 911 emergency devices, and eyeglasses and other donated items are repurposed for those in need, and recyclable materials are diverted from landfills.

As part of the program, she formed a partnership with a woman-owned recycling company, creating an impactful model aligned with our WeDriveU Cares initiatives.

Barbara’s leadership proves that local action can spark companywide inspiration.

Teamwork Award: Marc Rivers, Proposal Manager | Corporate Team (Remote)

Marc Rivers consistently brings a strong sense of ownership and commitment to the commercial team, stepping forward and leading by example.

During a peak and demanding period, Marc rose to the occasion, taking on additional responsibilities and ensuring proposal team functions continued without disruption. His steady leadership and focus helped maintain momentum and deliver results when it mattered most.

Marc plays a critical role in the team’s day-to-day operations, bringing collaboration, positivity and a strong customer focus to every project.

With a solutions-oriented mindset, Marc approaches each opportunity with intention, helping move work forward and strengthen outcomes for both internal teams and customers. His team-first mindset and willingness to step in wherever needed define what teamwork looks like at WeDriveU and reflect the standard of excellence we strive for across the organization.

What Makes WeDriveU Special

Each of these stories reflects teammates who take initiative, support others and make a meaningful impact. That is what sets WeDriveU apart.

To our Q1 2026 Values in Action honorees, thank you for bringing our values to life every day. Your leadership and dedication continue to raise the standard across our organization.

Here’s to continuing that work together.

Like to Join our Award-Winning Team?

We’re hiring! Discover rewarding career opportunities working with these award winners and the rest of our amazing team shaping the future of transportation across the U.S.