This year, the Southern Nevada Human Resources Association (SNHRA) selected Pam Washington and A-1 Janitorial Services as the winner of the OYA Award.

A-1 Janitorial Services has demonstrated the highest level of diversity awareness, initiatives and/or accomplishments.

The OYA Diversity Award winner is selected based on the following criteria:

Demonstrated a significant contribution toward diversity

Demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the value of diversity

Demonstrated outstanding efforts to promote an environment free from bias and discrimination

Worked to provide management, staff and employees an experience rich in perspectives and opportunities to learn from each other.

The coveted OYA Award represents Oya (pronounced Oh-yah), the Goddess of Change. In Africa, Oya is the Yoruban Goddess of weather, especially tornadoes, lightning, rainstorms and transformation. She is also one of the most powerful of Brazilian Macumba deities.

The award was presented at the monthly SNHRA meeting held on Tuesday, March 12, 2013 in the boardroom of the Las Vegas United Way. Other winners in their respective categories for size were: MGM –Mirage Resorts and Hilton Grand Vacation Clubs