Reynolds Lake Oconee is pleased to announce the recipients of Quarterly Employee Awards for 2026. James McDuffie, Director of Facilities Maintenance, has been named Leader of the Quarter. Brianna Bustion, Store Clerk Learning Coach at Linger Longer Marina, and Thelma Clarke, Line Cook II, Culinary Tavern, have been named Employee of the Quarter.
In a premier destination like Reynolds, the facilities and equipment are more than just assets; they are the foundation of the Member and guest experience. The importance of maintaining these systems cannot be overstated—from complex mechanical infrastructure to the pristine condition of world-class amenities, the physical environment dictates the quality of life on the property. Overseeing this vast landscape is a monumental task that requires a unique blend of technical mastery and strategic foresight. James’s unparalleled discipline and the vital role he plays in upholding the structural integrity and operational excellence of the entire property.
James doesn't just manage buildings; he preserves the very essence of the Reynolds brand. His proactive approach ensures that every piece of equipment operates at peak efficiency, preventing the "hidden" issues that could otherwise disrupt the seamless lifestyle our community expects.
James approaches his responsibilities with a level of dedication that sets the gold standard. His proactive approach to maintaining our sophisticated equipment has prevented countless disruptions, keeping operations seamless across the property. He understands that in our industry, excellence is maintained in the details that most people never see until they stop working—and James ensures they never stop.
With over 11 years at Reynolds, James has proven that consistency is the key to longevity. His leadership style is defined by a "lead from the front" mentality. By holding his team to high standards of accountability while fostering a culture of professional pride, he ensures that the maintenance department remains a well-oiled machine.
Before his tenure at Reynolds, James served in the Engineering department at the hospital in Milledgeville. He continues to hold the Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) credential—the pinnacle of certification in the field—alongside being a Certified Pool Operator (CPO). This technical expertise allows him to manage complex, large-scale projects with precision.
For James, motivation comes from the environment itself. "I love the opportunity to maintain the best property in the world," James shared. "Working under such great leadership and caring for a vast array of amenities makes every day rewarding."
When he isn’t ensuring the property is in peak condition, James is a fixture of the local community. An enthusiast of Lake Sinclair, he enjoys fishing and boating. He resides with his wife, Sherry, and their daughter, Jordan, and son, Alan-Michael. The McDuffie household is rounded out by their beloved "four-legged child," Molly the puppy.
At Reynolds, every interaction defines the community’s reputation for excellence. As a Store Clerk, Brianna serves as a primary point of contact for Members and guests. Whether it is a quick transaction or a complex request, a friendly face and efficient service set the tone for a world-class experience on the water.
In recent months, Brianna’s "infectious charisma" and welcoming smile have become a hallmark of the Linger Longer Marina experience. Members frequently cite her positive attitude and genuine dedication to customer service as a highlight of their visits.
Beyond her frontline duties, Brianna’s role as a Learning Coach is fundamental to the long-term success of the Reynolds team. She has recently gone above and beyond by spearheading the training for the new store clerk at Richland Pointe Marina, ensuring that high standards are passed down to the next generation of staff. Brianna understands that the transition into a fast-paced environment can be daunting.
Her manager notes that Brianna’s greatest strength is her empathy; she provides a supportive environment that turns a challenging learning curve into a confidence-building success story. "Brianna’s commitment to excellence and her ability to foster a culture of responsibility and pride in her peers make her an invaluable asset," remarks her manager. "She doesn't just do a job; she enriches the lives of those around her."
Brianna joined the Reynolds family over seven years ago, marking her eighth anniversary this coming October. Over nearly a decade, she has transitioned from a skilled service provider to an expert problem-solver. "I truly enjoy training new employees and helping them solve problems," Brianna shared. "But meeting new Members and building those daily interactions is what I like most about being part of the Reynolds team."
Outside of her professional life, Brianna is deeply rooted in her community and family. She is an active member of Pinkerton Grove Baptist Church and finds great joy in her role as an aunt, spending much of her spare time helping with her niece and planning upcoming family vacations. At home, she enjoys the company of her beloved four-legged companion, a four-year-old dog named Bea.
A cornerstone of the culinary team at the Tavern, Thelma’s dedication, technical skill, and leadership have made her an invaluable asset to the community for nearly 15 years here at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Serving as Cook 2, she is recognized by both peers and management as a stronghold in the kitchen. Her supervisor credits her with maintaining an elite level of consistency in both prep and service, a vital trait in the fast-paced environment of the Tavern’s culinary operations. Her leadership notes that she is always on top of her responsibilities and is the first to step up when extra hours are needed, making her a senior member of the staff that the entire team is grateful to have.
Thelma’s secret to her longevity is a passion for constant improvement and the chance to mentor those around her. She notes that her time at Reynolds has provided her with opportunities to learn new skills and, importantly, the platform to help others grow. This focus on professional development and positive collaboration has allowed her to refine her craft alongside some of the finest chefs in the region.
Thelma’s impact at the Tavern extends beyond her technical abilities; she is known for a work ethic that sets the tone for the entire staff. Whether she is preparing the daily station or executing complex orders during a high-volume dinner rush, her calm under pressure and attention to detail ensure that every plate meets the high standards expected at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Colleagues often look to her for guidance, and her willingness to share her deep knowledge has helped shape the next generation of culinary talent within the company.
While she is a powerhouse in the kitchen, Clarke’s true inspiration comes from her life outside of the Tavern. Devoted to her family, Thelma spends her free time caring for her loved ones and shares a special passion for literacy and education, particularly enjoying time spent reading with her son. This balance of professional excellence and personal devotion is what colleagues say makes her such a grounding presence in the workplace. Her 14-year legacy is not just one of great food, but of the hard work and heart that defines the Reynolds spirit.
