145 Millennium - Twenty-fourth Edition SOCIAL WORK, PUBLIC SERVICE, NONPROFIT AND HUMANITIES since she was a teenager. She has long been involved in volunteer and mission work, including disaster relief efforts in places like New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. She has been training with the American Red Cross and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, her local food pantry and her local church. Ms. Siry has been a member of the National Association of Social Workers throughout her career. She was also honored as a Woman of the Year in Religion by her local town newspaper in 2005, a recognition she remains proud of. Reflecting on her career, Ms. Siry is proud of the meaningful impact she has had on individuals and organizations. She continues to serve as a trusted resource, connecting people seeking help with national hotlines and local response services as needed. Looking forward, she intends to pursue ongoing professional development through workshops and continuing education. Over the next five to 10 years, Ms. Siry aims to travel more with her husband of 50 years. She treasures her children, grandchildren and friends and hopes to be remembered as someone with a strong, loving heart who cared deeply for others. positions taught her how to be an advocate and resource for older students. Her professional growth continued through collaboration with colleagues, couples counseling and ongoing work in schools and churches. Having spent 25 years at the Lutheran Counseling Center, Ms. Siry attributes her success to being a compassionate listener. She has a knack for making people feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings, which she credits to her authenticity. Additionally, she stands out for her ability to avoid judgment, acting more as a facilitator who helps people find their own answers while offering support and solutions. While the counseling center is a faith-based organization, Ms. Siry values working with individuals from all backgrounds. She draws on experience in addiction and family work and appreciates the agency’s non-denominational Christian approach that welcomes people of all faiths. Her previous internships, education and professional experience strengthen her insight and commitment to service. Ms. Siry’s work enables her to make a meaningful difference in the world, a value she has held
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTQ5NDA2