Julianna Gomez, a senior office assistant at the Smithtown Senior Center, was recognized by the Town Board Sept. 8 for her professionalism, compassion and dedication to the community’s older residents.

Gomez, who joined the Senior Center in June 2025, was honored as part of the town’s monthly Exceptional Public Servant recognition, an initiative that highlights employees who make a difference through their work with Smithtown residents.

At the Senior Center, Gomez is often the first person seniors encounter when they call or walk through the door. She handles a steady stream of questions while helping residents navigate programs and services including transportation, Meals on Wheels, Expanded In-home Services for the Elderly (EISEP), disability services, senior clubs and other center programs.

Town Supervisor Edward R. Wehrheim (R) said Gomez quickly recognized that her role involved more than simply answering phones and providing information.

“For many of our seniors, that first interaction can determine whether they feel comfortable asking for help, joining a program or connecting with a service they may truly need,” Wehrheim said.

Gomez took the initiative to learn the center’s programs so she could provide accurate information and direct residents to the services they need, according to the town.