Stacey Arce is the executive assistant to our Interim President and CEO, Tony Young. Below, she describes a typical workday, what she likes about workforce development, and what brings her joy.
What is a typical day like for you?
My workdays consist of wearing multiple hats within the organization. My primary role is assisting the CEO, but I also assist multiple departments, such as people and culture, communications, finance and, more recently, facilities.
You will usually catch me answering calls, in meetings with different stakeholders, distributing mail and deliveries, scheduling appointments, greeting our staff, partners and participants, setting up for special events, board meetings and trainings, or ensuring that my colleagues have what they need to get through their workday by restocking our kitchen with coffee, tea and snacks and the office with supplies.
What professional moment or project are you most proud of?
I was initially hired as a front desk associate, but I’m most proud of having transitioned into the role of our CEO’s executive assistant. While it wasn’t my original plan, and the work seemed daunting, I saw it as an opportunity to showcase my additional skills and to grow.
As an executive assistant, I witness firsthand the tremendous amount of time, effort, dedication, hard work, and passion that our staff devotes to our organization every day to ensure that we positively impact our community and within our organization. I also have the opportunity to recognize how essential our mission is and how our work can make a difference in someone’s life.
Our programs offer considerable support to a wide range of people, and their creation requires significant effort and collaboration from many individuals. One program that holds a special place in my heart is designed to assist youth and mature workers. I am particularly passionate about helping these groups overcome the employment barriers they often encounter.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
During the workweek, I enjoy reading my devotional book, listening to worship or country music and ending my day with a gym session or at the baseball fields watching my son do what he loves most.
On the weekends and when I have time off, I enjoy traveling to new places, spending quality time with my family and friends, trying new restaurants and cafes in San Diego and attending church. Spending quality time with my family, especially my son, is a priority to me, and it fills my cup daily.