Editor’s Note This post is part of Grow Your Own Way, a series featuring the different career paths of RACSB.
Finding Her Way
Courtney’s journey with RACSB began in 2007, just after she graduated from college. Growing up blocks away from RACSB’s main office in Fredericksburg, Courtney had a personal connection to the organization through her uncle, who had been a longtime member of the Kenmore Club.
Though uncertain about her career direction, she accepted a part-time position as a direct support professional in one of our group homes.
That entry-level position blossomed into an 18-year career that has shaped Courtney’s professional and personal development as she worked her way to her current role as an assistant coordinator with the DD Residential team.
Personal and Professional Growth
While her job has changed over nearly two decades, Courtney said that one thing has remained constant: Her work cultivates compassion, patience, and understanding–core values that have helped her develop her career and her character.
Her job provided unexpected practical life skills as well. Coming directly from college where she primarily prepared quick meals, Courtney suddenly found herself responsible for cooking nutritious, well-balanced meals for eight people daily. She didn’t just boost her culinary talents; Courtney developed other skills, like cleaning and budgeting, that served her well beyond the workplace.
Perhaps most significantly, Courtney’s work at RACSB has cultivated a profound sense of empathy.
“There is not a day that goes by,” she said, “When my first thought is not ‘if I were in their shoes, how might I feel or think in that situation?'”
This perspective has become central to her leadership philosophy and her approach to supporting both colleagues and the individuals served by RACSB.
Leadership Development
Courtney embraces opportunities to influence others positively as she grows into leadership roles. After all, her own professional journey has been shaped by supportive supervisors who provided guidance, led by example, recognized her strengths, and offered grace when needed.
That mentorship has inspired her approach to leadership. She strives to be an influential leader who helps others to develop professionally and adopt a mindset focused on supporting both clients and colleagues. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes giving people the benefit of the doubt and understanding that everyone is at a different point in their professional journey.
Continued Growth and Loyalty
Courtney’s commitment to RACSB remains strong after 18 years, sustained by her trust in the organization’s leadership. She believes deeply in the integrity of RACSB’s leadership team and board of directors, confident that they consistently make decisions aligned with values that prioritize quality client services and employee support.
Her dedication is further reinforced by RACSB’s investment in her continued growth. Currently, the organization is supporting Courtney through their tuition assistance program as she pursues a Master’s degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology to enhance her leadership capabilities.
A Shared Journey
For Courtney, working at RACSB transcends the conventional employee-employer relationship. “It’s not just working for an organization,” she said, “But really working alongside and with the organization to make a positive impact in our community.”
This collaborative spirit and sense of shared purpose have defined her nearly two decades of service and continue to fuel her commitment to RACSB’s mission.
Through challenges and triumphs, Courtney has found at RACSB not just a career but a calling that aligns with her core values and allows her to make a meaningful difference in her community.