Kerry Brennan is an inspiring leader whose roots in Yates County and a lifetime of hard work have shaped her into a dynamic figure in civil service and her community.

Kerry was born and raised in Yates County, where she grew up on a beef and cash crop farm. Her childhood revolved around hard work, starting at a young age on her family’s farm and helping neighboring farmers. By high school, Kerry balanced three to four jobs while excelling as an athlete in soccer and basketball.

Kerry initially pursued nursing at Elmira College but discovered her passion for human services during an internship with Catholic Charities’ First Time Home Buyer Program. This experience shifted her focus, leading her to a career where she could make a broader impact on communities.

After college, she began her career as a Human Resources Coordinator at The Arc of Schuyler, a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 2011, Kerry joined Yates County as the Confidential Assistant to the Sheriff. By 2015, she had been appointed Personnel Officer, a role she continues to excel in today.

Mid 2024, Kerry achieved two professional milestones when she became the President of the New York State Association of Personnel and Civil Service Officers and also won the 2024 NYSAPCSO Merit and Fitness Award, which recognizes contributions made by an individual to the administration of the New York State Merit System and for contributions of time and energies in support of the Association. She also takes great pride in her personal achievements such as buying her first car at age 14 and her first home at age 22.

Kerry’s commitment to her community extends beyond her professional responsibilities. She serves as:

    •        A board member for the Penn Yan Academy Athletic Hall of Fame.

    •        A Sunday School teacher and Chairperson of the Pastor Parish Relations Committee for the Milo Center Methodist Church.

    •        A member of the Joint Christian Education Committee for Milo Center and Second Milo Churches, and a Vacation Bible School teacher.

She also organizes donation drives and collections for local charities, showcasing her dedication to uplifting others.

Through her career, Kerry has developed skills in communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability. Her strong sense of integrity underpins her work, ensuring fairness, transparency, and trust in every interaction. She believes these values are crucial for fostering effective collaboration and leadership.

Kerry advises those entering civil service to act with honesty, fairness, and transparency, emphasizing the importance of trust and respect. She stresses the value of collaboration over micromanagement and encourages empowering others to think independently. “You’re only as good as your weakest employee,” she notes, highlighting the importance of building a strong, capable team.

If given the opportunity, Kerry would streamline outdated civil service procedures, incorporate modern technology, and balance traditional testing with practical assessments. She envisions a system that applies common sense to simplify processes while maintaining fairness and transparency, ultimately fostering greater public trust and efficiency.

When not at work, Kerry enjoys spending time with family, gardening, crafting, and staying active through hiking, golf, and pickleball. She also loves attending her children’s sporting events and cleaning and organizing when she has some down time.

Kerry Brennan’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, adaptability, and community involvement. Her work continues to leave a lasting impact on both Yates County and the civil service system.

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