Cheryl Kent-Biccum’s professional journey is a powerful testament to perseverance, dedication, and service to community. A lifelong resident of Port Jervis, Cheryl comes from a family deeply rooted in the area—parents, grandparents, and generations before her all called Port Jervis home. Married for 26 years, she is also the proud parent of a 17-year-old daughter who is currently a junior in high school.

Cheryl’s path was not a traditional one. As a high school dropout, she later earned her equivalency diploma and went on to attend SUNY Orange, where she obtained an associate’s degree in business. Over the years, her career spanned a wide range of roles—from bartending to serving as an Administrative Assistant, and even holding the title of President of a Corporation. Ultimately, it was civil service that truly resonated with her. When she became Civil Service Commission Secretary, the role “stuck,” allowing her to give back to the hometown she loves.

Cheryl has served as the Civil Service Commission Secretary since August 1998 and is the sole staff member of the commission office. With 27 years of service, she is truly the backbone of the operation—if it’s civil service related, it lands on her desk. Her depth of knowledge, institutional memory, and commitment have made her an indispensable resource to her municipality.

One of Cheryl’s most meaningful achievements is her unwavering commitment to her work despite facing chronic and autoimmune diseases for more than 20 years. Through daily challenges, she has continued to serve with resilience and professionalism—and notably, she has never missed an examination day. This level of dedication speaks volumes about her character and sense of responsibility.

Through her career, Cheryl has learned the importance of questioning everything and thinking ahead. Rather than focusing only on immediate fixes, she emphasizes the value of looking forward and considering long-term impacts. Her advice to those new to civil service is clear and practical: network with regional civil service agencies, always ask questions, conduct research, maintain strong relationships with personnel offices, and if there is ever doubt—check it out.

If given the opportunity to improve the civil service system, Cheryl would focus on enhancing communication and fostering greater respect for civil service as a whole—an ongoing challenge she has witnessed throughout her career.

Outside of work, Cheryl enjoys thrifting and reselling her finds for a profit, a passion she describes as less of a side hustle and more of a “treasure-hunting addiction.” She also finds joy in reading, solving word puzzles, and relaxing with cross-stitch and embroidery when time allows.

Cheryl Kent-Biccum’s story reflects resilience, service, and a deep commitment to civil service and community. Her experience and dedication continue to make a lasting impact, and we are proud to spotlight her contributions!