Jennifer Sexton, a Cabinet Designer at Dunn Lumber in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, has been named Spahn & Rose’s 2024 Employee of the Year—a recognition of her incredible dedication, professionalism, and customer-focused approach. Since joining Dunn Lumber in 2017, Sexton has become a vital part of the team, earning praise from colleagues, builders, and homeowners alike. Her ability to balance technical expertise with personal connection has made her an invaluable asset.
Dunn Lumber General Manager Chris Hembrook describes Sexton as the “perfect fit” for Dunn Lumber.
“Her professionalism and drive to give customers the best experience from start to finish are unmatched. Jennifer is a vital part of our success, and we’re lucky to have her on the team,” Hembrook says.
Customers often echo these sentiments, praising her patience, upbeat personality, and talent for navigating even the most challenging projects.
Building Trust Through Clear Communication
Sexton credits her success to her ability to listen carefully to homeowners’ needs and maintain clear communication with builders.
“Communication is key,” she explains. “I make sure to keep everyone on the same page—whether it’s ensuring the builder is aware of design changes or guiding homeowners through decisions about their space, budget, and aesthetics.”
Her relationships with builders are particularly important.
“Builders trust us to handle the details so they can focus on construction,” she says. “Building those relationships ensures repeat business, and it’s rewarding to know they rely on us.”
Sexton’s collaborative approach ensures seamless teamwork, helping projects come together smoothly from start to finish.
Guiding Customers Through Big Decisions
For Jennifer, patience is essential when working with customers.
“Designing a kitchen or choosing cabinetry is a big decision, and people need time to feel confident,” she says.
Her role as a designer involves helping homeowners define their vision while keeping them grounded in practicality. Sexton emphasizes that customers often look to her for guidance, relying on her expertise to navigate complex projects.
Seeing a homeowner’s vision come to life is the most rewarding part of her work. “Every project is unique,” she says, noting that she keeps a collection of finished projects on her laptop to remind herself of the transformations she’s helped create.
Going Above and Beyond
Sexton’s dedication has been recognized throughout the year. She received two Employee of the Month nominations in 2024, winning the title in March, and was honored with the Above & Beyond Award for her exceptional efforts.
“I was so thankful to have my hard work recognized,” she says.
Her flexibility, whether staying late to meet with homeowners or accommodating builders’ schedules, reflects her commitment to providing the best possible service.
A Team-First Approach
When asked what drew her to Dunn Lumber and what keeps her motivated, Jennifer points to the supportive team environment. “We work together all day long, helping each other out. Management trusts us to do our jobs well, and that trust makes a huge difference,” she says.
Dunn Lumber’s focus on customer experience has also shaped her approach. “The emphasis on putting customers first inspires me to always give my best,” she adds.
For new employees hoping to make an impact, Jennifer offers simple but meaningful advice: “Use your team as a resource. They’re not your competition—they’re there to help you succeed.”
Finding Balance Outside of Work
Outside the showroom, Jennifer enjoys outdoor activities like boating and swimming. “Spending time on the water helps me recharge and relax,” she says. When asked about her plans for the $1,000 she received as Employee of the Year, Jennifer laughs and says, “That’s going straight into savings!”
The Spahn & Rose Employee of the Year Award is the annual culmination of the Above & Beyond Award program, which recognizes employees within the Spahn & Rose family of stores, which includes 24 Spahn & Rose locations; Dunn Lumber in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin; Metro Building Products in Marietta, Georgia; Still Lumber in Conyers, Georgia; and City Lumber in Huntsville, Alabama. Recipients of the Employee of the Year Award receive $1,000.
Above & Beyond Award winners receive a $100 Visa gift card and are eligible to be named the company’s Employee of the Year. Spahn & Rose staffers can be nominated for the Above & Beyond Award by coworkers, supervisors and customers. When a customer submits a review, any employees mentioned are nominated for the honor. Customers can also nominate employees for Above & Beyond through Spahn & Rose’s social-media channels, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.