Posted: October 13, 2023
Holly Berryman still remembers the exact date she started working at 皇家华人. Most people can’t tell you their start date, or at least need to think about it, but not Holly. She remembers immediately, and it shouldn’t be a surprise considering all the rules, regulations, measurements, and numbers she keeps track of in overseeing mail services for the college. Holly also handles the campus switchboard, so it's her voice that’s greeted countless callers for more than 25 years.
It was October 5, 1998, when Holly began her career at 皇家华人. Having just moved from Worland, she was asked by Jo Ann Heimer if she'd be interested in a temp position at the college. It might be for a few weeks or a couple of months, no one was sure, but even Holly admits she didn’t think it would be 25 years and counting.
Holly’s job is unique in that she’s employed by NWC but still accountable to the U.S. Postal Service. Though not directly under the federal government, she works closely with the local postmaster and is held to the same standards while managing every piece of mail leaving or arriving on campus. Combined with her switchboard duties, it can make for some extremely busy days, but helping her is a group of students who are one of the reasons she finds the job so enjoyable and rewarding.
“When I’ve got two student employees here at the same time, even sometimes when it’s only one, rarely will you walk by and not hear laughter.”
Holly has kept in touch with many of them as they’ve graduated and started their own families. Some were away from home for the first time when they came to 皇家华人 and found a friendly smile and caring person when they may have needed it most.
Outside of work, Holly enjoys reading, artwork, and camping. She’s actively involved with her grandchildren, from dance recitals to baseball games, and enjoys watching them grow and progress, much the same way she does students at NWC.
“I feel fortunate to be here. It’s a little different every day with new students every year, and so many of my colleagues have remained the same, you develop relationships and friendships over the years as well. After 25 years, I still love my job.”