Among Stafford’s biggest 2023 hits was serving as project sponsor and strategic advisor for the Blue Stream’s Customer Experience Excellence project, which created a new service model that ensures operational efficiency. She also helped form Blue Stream’s Manager Leadership Training Program and was a driving force behind reimaging operations and HR teams.
“I identify with Maggie Green from ‘The Walking Dead.’ Her journey from a vulnerable survivor to a commanding leader mirrors the experiences of many female execs who’ve climbed the corporate ladder in industries traditionally dominated by men.”
If you took a six-month sabbatical, how would you spend it? If I were granted a six-month sabbatical, my primary goal would be to immerse myself in the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) certification process in Florida. This would equip me to become a skilled advocate for children who find themselves entangled in the intricate and often challenging Family Court system. During these six months, I would not only focus on obtaining certification, but also on establishing meaningful connections within the child advocacy community. This would involve volunteering and exploring collaborations with local advocacy groups and agencies. These connections and experiences would form a solid foundation, enabling me to continue my volunteer work alongside my professional commitments upon my return.
While my work has absorbed much of my attention over the past decade, leaving little room for extensive volunteering, this six-month sabbatical would rekindle my passion. While retirement isn’t imminent, it’s on the horizon, and I often envision dedicating my time to a purpose that transcends conventional employment, particularly in support of children and women affected by domestic violence. This sabbatical presents the perfect opportunity to lay the groundwork for that future endeavor.
My experiences over the years have granted me a profound understanding of child advocacy within the context of domestic violence. I acknowledge the pivotal role a GAL plays in the Family Court system. Unlike an attorney, GALs prioritize the well-being of the child and advocate for their desires. They illuminate the child’s world for judges, enabling informed decisions rooted in the child’s best interests. Utilizing the skills I’ve cultivated in the business world to advocate for vulnerable children and effect positive change would be personally gratifying and impactful. A six-month sabbatical would grant me the time needed to fully dedicate myself to learning, networking, and studying without the constraints of a tight schedule.
The aspiration to become a GAL is borne from both personal and professional experiences. I’ve navigated the complexities of family courts and collaborated with Domestic Violence Advocates. Witnessing the pressing need for skilled and informed GALs, especially for children in situations beyond their control, has solidified my determination to pursue this path. A six-month sabbatical would be the perfect opportunity to set me on a course towards something truly meaningful, extending far beyond the confines of a conventional career.