NYCHA Caretakers Honored for Exemplary Service

During his time as a caretaker at NYCHA’s Central Office in Manhattan, Ian Morris has consistently been willing to take on other duties in addition to his regular responsibilities. 

After serving as a NYCHA caretaker for more than 20 years, Rosa Cummings has become a mentor to fellow caretakers, encouraging them to take pride in their job. 

The two employees were recently recognized for their exemplary service at NYCHA with the John DeCarlo Memorial Award. Named after a longtime NYCHA caretaker who lost his life while on duty at Brooklyn’s Marlboro Houses in 1997, the award is presented annually to outstanding caretakers with a minimum of five years of service.  

At a May 19 ceremony attended by NYCHA’s Chair Greg Russ and Chief Operating Officer Vito Mustaciuolo, Mr. Morris received this year’s grand prize award (a $1,000 check), while Ms. Cummings received the runner-up prize (a $500 check) at a May 17 ceremony.  

Throughout his six-year career at NYCHA, Mr. Morris has served in the Department of Real Estate Services (DRES), where he supports Central Office staff and operations. John Rettagliata, Deputy Director of DRES, credited Mr. Morris’ work behind the scenes to maintain the facilities, saying he helps “keep the lights on in Central Office.” 

“Ian was chosen for his willingness to step up and take on assignments, his flexibility and ability in taking on these different roles, and the positive attitude he displays no matter what he is faced with,” said Mr. Rettagliata, who nominated Mr. Morris for the caretaker award.  

Mr. Rettagliata further lauded Mr. Morris for taking pride in his work and being ready to assist wherever he may be needed. After being temporarily reassigned to Brooklyn’s Glenwood Houses to cover staffing shortages during the pandemic, Mr. Morris was presented with a commendation letter for his professionalism.  

“He will offer up assistance to anyone on the team, without even being asked,” Mr. Rettagliata said. 

Ms. Cummings has worked as a caretaker at Brooklyn’s Ocean Hill Houses for 18 years, after beginning her NYCHA career as a seasonal aide in 1998. She is known for being a team player and is praised by residents for her dedication to keeping the development safe and clean.  

“Not only does she excel in her role as caretaker, she is loved and adored by the residents,” said Lisa Shuman, Assistant Resident Buildings Superintendent at Ocean Hill Houses, who nominated Ms. Cummings. “She assists her residents, particularly the seniors, with reporting issues to the office.” 

As a veteran caretaker, Ms. Cummings is respected by her colleagues and sets an example for a job well done.  

“She teaches the incoming caretakers to put their all into their work and how to do the job properly,” Ms. Shuman noted.  

Photo caption: Ian Morris, a caretaker in the Department of Real Estate Services, is presented with the John DeCarlo Memorial Award’s grand prize at a May 19 ceremony.