This month’s SOAR Star of the Month is Sameatria Simmons! Ms. Simmons is a trusted and valued member of SOAR’s incredible group of talented employees.
Q: Tell me what you do for SOAR clients
A: As the Lead Staff Officer for International Affairs, I support the Director, Deputy Director, and Senior Advisor. My duties include calendar management, reviewing and preparing read-ahead material, managing and arranging international and domestic travel by creating travel orders, securing air/ground transportation, processing vouchers, etc. I also manage the internal/external coordination of documentation with the Agency’s partners for International Affairs.
Q: What do you like best about working at SOAR?
A: One thing I like best about working for SOAR is that I receive continuous encouragement and opportunities to improve my skills to support current and future clients. Our owner, Susan Barborek, is a huge proponent for ensuring we find new and creative ways to support our clients by providing endless opportunities for training and growth.
Q: Why does it matter to you to work somewhere that provides purpose and meaning?
A: Since working at SOAR, I’ve been exposed to a culture that sees me not as a person doing client delivery but a valuable team member whose skills are amplified and accessed to enrich the entire team and client delivery. I’ve definitely worked in other jobs where I was just a “body in a seat,” where I have been detached from my team mates with no full appreciation for the larger mission.
Q: How is your experience at SOAR different than other places you’ve worked?
A: My experience at SOAR has been vastly different than other company’s where I’ve previously worked. Not only does our owner provide mentorship, but SOAR leadership arranges a plethora of volunteer and leisure activities for us to enjoy.
Q: What’s your favorite part of working with your SOAR teammates?
A: The best part of working with my teammates is the wealth of resources, support, and knowledge they possess. Any time I need help with a project or task, there’s always a teammate that’s an expert in that area.
Q: Why would you recommend that a prospective candidate consider working for SOAR?
A: If you are looking for a company that is 100% invested in your personal and professional growth, choose SOAR!
Congratulations and well-earned Sameatria!