by Valerie Durden
Manager of Employee Development & Enhanced Benefits
Deloris always considered the idea of going back to school, but she never took steps towards it. Her hesitation came from years of challenges within the Philadelphia School System and a lack of family support due to a language barrier. Regardless of her uncertainties and past experiences, the thought of her starting school would not fade away. She decided to take the first step to inquire about the Harcum College program at Woods.
Deloris began her career at Woods Services 11 years ago as a client care worker. She is an exceptional employee who strives to give the absolute best care to her residents. She goes beyond what is asked of her to provide guidance and support to her colleagues. Deloris often ponders ways to contribute more to the care and support she provides. She is committed to making a lasting change that would improve her residents’ quality of life. She thought of moving into a supervisory role, but she did not have the credentials to apply for a position. The Harcum College program at Woods could help.
After giving a lot of thought to going back to school, she became a student at Harcum College in 2018. So many obstacles were present throughout her time in Harcum. There were times where she became her own mechanic to get to school. Missing classes and assignments were not an option for her. She also faced struggles in her personal life and the stress of going to school and work during the COVID-19 pandemic. She would always tell Valerie Durden, Manager of Employee Development & Enhanced Benefits, that her education meant everything. She added once she starts something, she pledges to finish. She would sit in the Employee Training & Development building for hours studying and preparing for her classes.
Deloris is a bright student and earned her way on the President and Honors list due to her academic success. She also received the Harcum Community Scholars Award. The support she received at Woods gave her the extra motivation she needed to complete her studies. Deloris graduated in May 2021. She received her associate degree in Human Services.
Now, she plans to continue her education until she achieves her master’s degree.
At Woods, Deloris finally earned her credentials and was promoted as a supervisor in the Mollie Woods program. Her message is clear to anyone who wants to pursue an education: Don’t give up. Don’t let self-doubt prevent you from earning your degree. The support is available at Woods.
Just take advantage of it.
List of Harcum Graduates, Class of 2021
Candace Pressley: promoted to Personal Care Home Administrator
Sherri Daly: promoted to TWE Program Supervisor
Lucinda Cole: focusing on bachelor’s degree (Capella)
Samuteh Morris: focusing on bachelor’s degree (Cabrini)
Nandanee Mitkus: promoted to Supervisor of Communication
Bunmi Olaore: focusing on bachelor’s degree (Capella)
Haroun Bangura: focusing on bachelor’s degree (Capella)
Mallie Young: promoted to Personal Care Home Administration (Beechwood)
Marieflore Chatelier: focusing on a nursing degree
Deloris Roman: promoted to Program Supervisor (Mollie Woods)
Way to go to all these students/Woods employees. You can do it!