Professional, community, and civic organizations: National Association of Social Work Member, Kentucky Human Service Association Treasurer, Barlow First Baptist Church Member, Ballard County Fair Volunteer, City of Barlow Volunteer What initially inspired you to pursue your profession? I was inspired to pursue social work because I’ve always been passionate about working with and helping others, especially children, and those who are less fortunate. When I was a front-line worker, I was able to work closely with the families we served, in helping link them with resources, learning to be self-sufficient, etc. Now as a supervisor, I can share knowledge and experience with my workers. Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your professional growth? I like to say that my grandmother was an “unofficial” social worker, because she was dedicated to helping others in her community. My Aunt Peggy was a social worker with the state and was the reason I chose to go into child protective services. I was able to grow up watching the two of them actively involved in and serving our community. They instilled in me that the work you do helping others is always worthwhile… sometimes very difficult, but you never give up. And when it gets hard, you keep showing up. Because if you can make a difference to at least one person along the way, then you have succeeded! I also credit my previous supervisor, Karla, for helping me along the way and being a mentor to me still since I transitioned from being her worker to a supervisor position in a different county. And my current supervisor, Sarah, for helping me to grow as a new supervisor. Professional, community, and civic organizations: Marshall County KY Lake Chamber of Commerce Member What initially inspired you to pursue your profession? While attending Murray State, I worked for Puckett’s Jewelry as a sales associate. I learned that I loved helping someone find what they were looking for! This led me to a career in sales in Nashville, TN, where I helped builders and homeowners select materials for their builds. Recently, my family and I moved back home to Benton, KY, and purchased Puckett’s Jewelry. Our goal is to continue to help our customers create the perfect ring or find a unique piece for themselves or a loved one. Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your professional growth? Yes, I have been blessed to have many role models in my life. Two of those people are Dave and Martha Puckett, the previous owners for 50 years, of Puckett’s Jewelry. While working for them as an employee, I learned what true customer service looked like. They treated their customers like family. Each person who walked in the door was treated with the same amount of care as the last. It set the standard for me on how I would take care of my customers, no matter what field I was in. What is the best piece of business advice that you’ve ever received? Consistency compounds. Show up every day, put in the same effort and quality of work, and over time there will be big rewards from that small, consistent action. Professional, community, and civic organizations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Beta Omega Omega Chapter Member and Technology Chairperson What initially inspired you to pursue your profession? I have always had a passion for helping others. Upon graduating from college, I knew that I wanted to return to Paducah and pour my passion into the same community that had graciously poured into me through mentoring and scholarships. Through the Merryman House, I have been able to work directly with domestic violence clients in this community and help them towards reaching the very important goal of obtaining and sustaining housing. Watching my clients use their key to open the door to not only their new place, but to a new beginning, motivates me to continue helping more clients. I’m grateful to work within a field where I can spread positivity and encouragement to clients and assist them with the tools that will change their lives for the better. Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your professional growth? I have had many mentors that have influenced my growth professionally, but one in particular is Whitney Evans-Snardon. In college, I completed an internship at Mercy Health - Lourdes with Whitney as my preceptor, and many of the leadership qualities that I use today are from what I learned under her direction. These qualities have impacted my professional career because I am able to confidently lead with compassion for others, foster healthy dialogue, encourage new ideas with my team, and provide support to my fellow colleagues. Sponsored by 40 Under Forty 14 SEPTEMBER 2023 Erin Graves Family Services Office Supervisor, McCracken County DCBS Hannah Lewis Owner, Puckett’s Jewelry Jade Townsley Housing Coordinator, Merryman House Domestic Crisis Center
