On a beautiful afternoon at Mark Arts in Wichita, community leaders gathered for a celebration of excellence. The Wichita Business Journal’s HR Professionals luncheon honored human resources leaders who are making a meaningful impact across our region — and among them was EmberHope’s own Jamie Riojas.

For Riojas, the moment was both humbling and deeply meaningful.

“Being recognized as an HR Professionals honoree by the Wichita Business Journal was truly humbling,” she shared. “It is incredibly meaningful to be acknowledged alongside so many talented and dedicated human resources leaders who are making a difference across our community.”

But for Riojas, the recognition wasn’t just about individual achievement. “The recognition reflects not only my own work, but also the collaboration, innovation, and commitment of the teams I have the privilege to work with every day.”

The luncheon itself was a celebration in every sense — warm, intentional, and even a little fun, complete with personalized walk-up songs for each honoree. Yet the most meaningful part of the day wasn’t the stage or the plaque.

“The most meaningful part of the day was having my staff, my boss, and our amazing Marketing Director there to share in the moment. Their presence and support meant everything to me.”

That response says a lot about Riojas — and about the culture she helps cultivate every day at EmberHope.

The Quiet Strength Behind the Mission

Human Resources often works behind the scenes: policies are written, compliance is monitored, systems are built, and risks are mitigated. But at EmberHope, HR is far more than paperwork — it is foundational to the organization’s ability to serve children and families well.

“At EmberHope, HR plays a critical role in protecting and strengthening the organization across multiple facets — from ensuring compliance with employment laws and mitigating risk, to cultivating a positive workplace culture and supporting employee growth,” Riojas explained.

“Beyond policies and procedures, HR helps align people strategies with the organization’s mission, ensuring that our workforce is equipped, supported, and engaged in serving children and families. While much of the work may not always be visible, it is foundational to the organization’s stability, effectiveness, and long-term success.”

In child welfare work, where staff carry heavy emotional loads and serve families in crisis, that foundation matters. Strong HR leadership means teams feel supported, leaders are equipped, and culture is intentional. It also means ensuring that the people doing hard, hope-filled work are not doing it alone.

Rooted in Healing and Hope

EmberHope’s mission is centered on healing and hope. For Riojas, that mission isn’t just external — it shapes how she leads internally.

“EmberHope’s mission of healing and hope deeply shapes how I approach HR. To truly serve children and families well, we must first ensure that our workforce is healthy, supported, and thriving.”

Riojas went on to add, “I see HR as a steward of that foundation — creating systems, culture, and supports that allow our staff to feel valued, equipped, and resilient in what can be very challenging work. When our employees are cared for and empowered, they are better able to extend healing, stability, and hope to the children and families we serve.”

It’s a powerful reminder that mission work begins with caring for the people who carry it out.

A Message from Our CEO

Recognition from the Wichita Business Journal is a well-earned honor, but more than that, it reflects the strength of the culture being built at EmberHope.

We are incredibly proud of Jamie and grateful for her steady, strategic, and mission-driven leadership.

Watch below as our President & CEO, Nickaila Sandate, shares her congratulations and speaks to the positive impact Jamie has on EmberHope and the children and families we serve. Jamie, thank you for the systems you build, the culture you shape, and the quiet leadership that helps make healing and hope possible every single day.