Editor’s note: This post is part of Grow Your Own Way, a series about career paths at RACSB.
Raven’s journey with RACSB began in 2014 when she was just 24 years old, starting in an entry-level position in developmental disability day support services.
“I make no joke that when I say that in my first two weeks of working here, that I knew this is where I wanted to retire,” Raven reflects.
This early conviction about her professional home has proven prophetic as she has built a fulfilling career spanning nearly a decade with the organization.
Steady Advancement Through Dedication
Raven’s career progression at RACSB illustrates both her dedication and the organization’s commitment to fostering internal growth. She has methodically advanced through multiple positions, building a comprehensive understanding of RACSB’s services along the way.
Starting as a part-time day support aide, she progressed to say support counselor, before advancing to day support specialist, assistant site leader, and then site leader. Her professional journey took her through various RACSB locations, giving her broad exposure to different aspects of the organization’s work.
Today, as assistant coordinator, Raven oversees all of RACSB’s day support programs—a responsibility she describes as her “favorite thing” about her current position. This trajectory from entry-level to leadership demonstrates how commitment and performance can lead to meaningful advancement within the organization.
A Culture of Support and Growth
Throughout her time at RACSB, Raven has experienced a culture that actively encourages professional development and personal growth.
“At RACSB I have never been led to believe that there was a goal that was too big to achieve,” she explained. This supportive environment provided her with the tools, encouragement, and opportunities needed to learn, grow, and even occasionally fail without fear.
Raven particularly values the constructive feedback she’s received during her career journey. She notes that criticism was always delivered in a way that never left her feeling “belittled or disparaged,” but instead empowered her to improve. She’s been guided on how to excel not just as an employee, but as a team member, supervisor, and leader.
When opportunities for advancement arose, Raven was encouraged to apply. Even when she didn’t immediately secure a position, she received valuable feedback that helped her prepare for future opportunities.
“I was encouraged to apply for positions when they opened, and when I didn’t get the position, I was given feedback in which I could use to better myself for the next opportunity,” she said.
This pattern of support and guidance has been instrumental in her professional development.
Beyond the Immediate Supervisor
One aspect of RACSB’s culture that Raven especially appreciates is the broad network of support available to employees.
“Something that I love and appreciate about the agency is that I have always felt support from more than just my direct supervisor,” she said. Throughout her tenure, she has worked closely with various departments including quality assurance, IT, residential, and human tesources.
This interdepartmental collaboration has been particularly valuable in navigating the inevitable changes that occurred.
“Working in the human services field is not easy and things are always changing. However, I have never felt alone in those changes and have been supported through trying to navigate the changes that occur,” Raven said.
Rather than feeling isolated during periods of transition, she has always felt supported by colleagues across the organization who face similar challenges.
Passion That Never Falters
Raven with Lacey Fisher, coordinator of day support services
What truly distinguishes Raven’s story is her unwavering passion for RACSB’s mission and the individuals they serve. She recognizes that the agency’s culture is special—something confirmed by her observation of people who leave only to return when they discover that “the grass is not always greener on the other side.”
For Raven, the connection to the individuals served has remained central throughout her career.
“I do not feel a need to seek out employment anywhere else, as my passion for the individuals that we are lucky enough to get to support has never faltered,” she said.
This enduring commitment to those served by RACSB has been the foundation of her professional satisfaction and success.
Advice for Future Leaders
When asked what advice she would give to newcomers at RACSB who aspire to advance their careers, Raven emphasizes the importance of curiosity and persistence.
“One piece of advice I would give to anyone coming into our agency and wanting to advance would be to ask questions! Never feel that any position is out of your reach, and continue to try even if you don’t get it the first time,” she encouraged.