Hannah Black grew up in Columbia County before relocating to Albany County in 2004. She graduated cum laude from Siena College in 2005 with a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish. While she jokes that she’s not fluent in Spanish, she proudly speaks “civil service” fluently after more than 17 years in…

Robin Lynch’s career has been defined by adaptability, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. After earning her degree from Berkeley College and obtaining her Paralegal Certification from Adelphi University, Robin spent nearly 20 years in the private legal sector, working her way up from Legal Assistant to Senior Paralegal. Her…

Lori Gruebel’s journey in Human Resources and Labor Relations spans over two decades and is fueled by her genuine passion for people. After earning her undergraduate degree in Human Development and Business from Syracuse University, Lori began her career at Verizon, where she managed operations, business offices, human resources, and…

Angela Robbins is the Executive Secretary to the Civil Service Commission for the City of Watertown. With two years in this pivotal role, Angela has been dedicated to navigating the complexities of civil service, bridging gaps, and educating those around her on the often-misunderstood processes involved. Angela’s journey began in…

Ryan Aylward met the love of his life while working in the Produce Department of his local Wegmans and earning his bachelor’s degree from Le Moyne College. Ryan had dreams of moving south after college to enjoy warmer climates and lower taxes, but his girlfriend (now wife), Melissa, had other…

CJ Smith’s journey is one of dedication, versatility, and a steadfast commitment to her community. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Services from Castleton State College, CJ began her career as a phlebotomist and medical assistant, supporting patients across hospital and private practice settings. Transitioning to county…

Kemi Shokunbi’s journey is one that spans continents, career paths, and diverse cultural experiences. Her passion for Human Resources blossomed through various roles across the globe, where she gained a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. Having lived in dynamic cities like Houston and the peaceful town of Ithaca,…

Danelle LaPann has dedicated over eight years to civil service, with her current role as Personnel Officer at Washington County for the past three years. Prior to her work in civil service, Danelle was involved in nonprofit work and fundraising, laying a foundation for her commitment to community service. Beyond…