Human Resources Administrative Assistant
I act as the liaison between the Pennsylvania-based employees and the HR team based in Maryland. I am here to support the managers and the employees in any way I can, whether it is ordering office supplies, answering benefit and IT questions, helping bridge the communication between employees and the HR team, doing orientations for new hires, and everything in between!
I spent 14 ½ years at Montessori Country Day School, working as both the administrative assistant and in a toddler room with 1- and 2-year-old children.
I started at Seakeeper on January 6, 2020.
So much, it’s hard to keep track! When I first started, it was pre-COVID and things were functioning “normally.” I continue to be in awe of Seakeeper’s ability to adapt and flex with the ever-changing world. In my short time here, we’ve acquired new buildings and marinas, re-shifted things on campus to maximize efficiency, introduced innovative and creative ways to keep in touch during these COVID-times… there is a constant sense of “What can we do next and what can we do better?” which always keeps things interesting.
Being asked to head up the Safety Committee has been one of the most challenging things to take on in my position. The safety concerns and needs on a manufacturing plant are VERY different than a school, so there has been a big learning curve for me. Luckily, the committee has been extremely helpful in pinpointing safety hazards, giving me suggestions and guidance along the way, and I am so grateful for the team contributions.
It’s hard to point out something, as the things I’m proud of aren’t really tangible. I’m hopeful I’ve made people’s work lives a little bit easier, giving them the ability to focus on the big picture things instead of spending time figuring out the small mundane details. I’m proud of the IT and benefits knowledge I’ve gained. I’ve never been very tech-savvy and learning about benefits was very overwhelming at first. The first time I correctly relayed benefit information, the first time I helped an employee access a site in NetSuite while he was on campus and I was remote – I consider those big wins!
The team of people at Seakeeper is what makes this place so special. The best parts of my day are when I get to walk around campus and touch base with everyone, even if it’s just a quick “Hi, how are you?” Even during these challenging times of COVID, there is a real sense of community on campus, and I enjoy being a part of it.
I’m the type of person who wants to problem-solve and give solutions immediately, which isn’t always feasible. HR covers an immense amount of ground, and sometimes it’s difficult to be so many things to so many people, especially as I’m continuing to learn and grow into my position.
Be flexible, be willing to work hard, and be open to asking questions. Everyone here offers a wealth of knowledge!
Can I say everyone? The little interactions I have on a daily basis with all of you are so important and impact my days in the best way! If I had to choose though, I would not be able to do my job without the guidance and leadership of Rebecca Gagnon. She has taken me under her wing from day 1, helping me every step of the way. She gives direction when it’s asked but also trusts me to take on more responsibilities within HR, which has only helped my confidence grow.
“Motivation is a nice-to-have. Purpose – that’s a necessity.”
Finding purpose and meaning in what I choose to do every day makes me want to work to attain the goals I set forth for myself. There are certainly days I don’t have enough coffee, or I’m tired because I didn’t sleep well, or I’m having a don’t-want-to-do-anything moment. But focusing on my purpose instead of my motivation helps me push through.
I’m an extremely passionate Philadelphia sports fan. Yelling at the TV, getting mad at the players/GMs/owners, calling out refs like they can hear me – it’s bad. I’m also training for my first ever half-marathon and I kickbox.
