From personal tragedy to national recognition, Gray’s story highlights the life-changing impact of staffing.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a powerful story of resilience and triumph, Lennie Gray, an associate with Express Employment Professionals in Sedalia, Missouri, has been named a National Staffing All-Star by the American Staffing Association (ASA) and a finalist for the National Staffing Employee of the Year. Her recognition comes as Express Employment International joins ASA in celebrating National Staffing Employee Week, Sept. 8–14.

Gray’s journey from personal tragedy to national recognition is a powerful example of how staffing can transform lives.

“It’s shocking, really. I’m just honored to be part of the Express community,” Gray said. “I never expected anything like this, and I’m kind of speechless.”

After enduring a devastating period in her personal life, Gray found support and opportunity through Express.

“The team at Express listened to my fears and supported me through my struggles,” she said. “They helped me believe in myself again and have always been supportive, constantly giving me feedback from employers and always looking out for good placements, and of course, offering friendly, helpful advice.”

A Local Hero with National Impact
Gray’s recognition is a proud moment for her local Express office, led by franchisees Debra and Scott Dickinson.

“Lennie overcame a large amount of personal tragedy,” Debra said. “It took our team a while to find the right opportunity. However, during that time, she accepted many different short-term projects and excelled in all of them.

“Our team was so thrilled to learn she was nominated for the ASA awards and is being recognized on such a large platform for her hard work and dedication.”

Celebrating the Workforce That Moves America
According to ASA, nearly 2.2 million temporary and contract employees work for staffing companies in the U.S. each week.

“National Staffing Employee Week is about more than recognition. It’s about honoring the resilience and contributions of the people who keep businesses moving,” said Bob Funk Jr., CEO, President and Chairman of Express Employment International. “Every success story, like Lennie’s, reminds us why we do what we do: connecting great people with meaningful work to help communities thrive.”

Looking for your next opportunity? Express Employment Professionals, named the nation’s #1 office and clerical staffing firm by Staffing Industry Analysts, is here to help. Apply today at ExpressPros.com and see how we can open doors for you.

If you would like to arrange for an interview to discuss this topic, please contact [email protected], Director of Corporate Communications & PR.

About Robert (Bob) Funk Jr.
Robert (Bob) Funk Jr. is the Chief Executive Officer, President and Chairman of Express Employment International, a global staffing franchisor founded and headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He leads a portfolio of workforce solution brands, including the flagship Express Employment Professionals franchise, along with several affiliated brands serving specialized markets. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

About Express Employment Professionals
At Express Employment Professionals, we’re in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing 427,000 people globally in 2024 and more than 11 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.