A Distinct Honor for Sheila

I had the pleasure and honor to accompany Sheila to an awards ceremony today in our State's capital, Montpelier.  We were attending the State of Vermont's Department of Corrections annual awards ceremony and luncheon.  Sheila was a distinct honoree at this awards ceremony for earning the honor of being chosen as the Administrative Employee of the Year.

When we arrived in the State's capital and pulled into the parking lot where this luncheon was being held, Sheila was immediately surprised by the number of cars already in the parking lot.  As we approached the building, we couldn't help but notice the two Department of Corrections Honor Guard members flanking each side of the entry doors.  I think it was at this point that Sheila realized this event might be a bigger thing than she had anticipated!

Once inside, we were greeted by more Honor Guard members in the lobby.  When we entered the grand room where the ceremony was to be held, it was already crowded with people milling about waiting for the ceremony to begin.  Sheila was enthusiastically greeted and congratulated as we made our way through the crowd to our table.

We were treated to coffee and pastries as everyone socialized.  A pianist softly played a white grand piano in the corner of this large room full of State of Vermont employees.  I was introduced to those at our table whom have associations to the State of Vermont's Community High School where Sheila is tasked as the lone registrar and administrative support person for this school serving entire State of Vermont.

The State Superintendent of the school, who is also Sheila's direct supervisor, nominated Sheila for this prestigious award and also accompanied us at our table.  Everyone had genuinely kind words for Sheila and about Sheila.  The narrative for Sheila's award echoes much of what I heard today from many of those in attendance and is as follows:

Sheila with the Vermont Commissioner
of the Dept of Corrections

"In every organization, there is one person who is described as the 'glue' or the 'heart'.  Sheila Sayah is just that.  She is the glue and the heart that holds the Community High School of Vermont together.  Her management abilities border on magical in that she can manage a huge student database, more than 75 teachers, Corrections Education staff, personnel records, course descriptions, credit and transcript requests and still have time to function as the executive secretary for the Community High School of Vermont.  There is no job too big or too little that she cannot mastermind.  On a day to day basis, Sheila has to interact with numerous groups from the Executive Staff of Department of Corrections, to legislators, to students, vendors, to the general public.  Regardless of the pressures or annoyances, Sheila handles each situation with grace and professionalism." 

When one can effectively administratively manage what is described in this narrative, it is no wonder she has earned the honor and title of "Employee of the Year".

The Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner for Vermont's Department of Corrections spoke during the ceremony.  We were then treated to a nice lunch with the accomplished pianist providing background music again.  It was a very nice ceremony and event.  It actually reminded me of my old career which evoked a few reminiscing stories from me during our drive home.

Sheila with her supervisor, Wilhelmina, the 
Superintendent of CHSVT

Not only am I proud of Sheila for these accomplishments and the respected name she has made for herself in recent years, but I also have another reason for having some extra pride in my amazing fiance...   well...   other than the fact that I love and care for her deeply...   I spent many years in the Air Force working in Administration, Personnel, Finance and Management in many capacities and, as a result, I have a deep understanding of the need for effective administrative management in any business.  I understand far too well the difficulties and limits to effective administrative management.  Sheila clearly is an employee any employer or manager would be blessed to have on their team.  She obviously takes great pride in doing her job not only the best she can, but she strives to constantly improve.  This is how we all should live our lives.

I managed to capture a few nice photographs of the event.  I could write an entire blog post just on the difficulties I had in shooting these photos but I will spare everyone this time!

I think the photos show the grace and pride Sheila conveyed today in accepting her award. Congratulations to an exceptionally hard worker who is an inspiration with respect, honor and integrity!