Susan is our Director of Benefits. She is a vital part of the organization! Here is a quick Q & A with Susan!
What is your role at NAP?
Since I am one of the “original NAP” employees, I have had a myriad of responsibilities – sort of a jack of all trades, master of none. However, as we grew and hired others, I was able to focus my activities and apply my knowledge of employee benefits. Since 2008, I have been the Director of Group Benefits. In recent years, I have also become the resident expert in The Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare.
What would people never guess you do in your role?
I act as consultant, therapist, and even mom to our clients.
What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?
I love learning new things, I love solving an issue, and I love interacting with our clients.
Before working here, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I’ve been involved in the insurance industry for longer than I want to admit to – beginning with individual life and disability insurance, then building a managed care organization in NY and NJ.
But the most fun I had – if you want to call it a job – was coaching soccer and little league. I took it very seriously, became licensed in both, and loved the experience so much that I took on the challenge of running our town traveling soccer program. I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the pitch with the kids but dealing with the parents was an entirely different experience!
What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work?
Reading has always been a passion of mine and an activity I loved to do with my children. I continue to inspire others to read by starting “libraries” for my friend’s grandbabies or my children’s friends’ babies. I am most excited that I will be able to do this for my own grandson who is due this October. I have all the old favorites and have even started a collection of ABC books from the countries we have recently visited.
What is one thing you couldn’t live without?
Perhaps a bit of a cliche, but it is my family. They are my light.
What is your hidden talent or an interesting fact about you?
I love to entertain and to cook. The more the merrier!
What is your favorite movie and/or book? Why?
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper is one of my all-time favorite books. I love its message, “I think I can, I think I can.” The simplicity of the words coupled with courage, perseverance, positive thinking and self-determination packs a powerful punch. The Little Engine That Could was a staple in my children’s library and remains their symbol that if you think you can, YOU CAN!
One of my favorite movies is Pretty Woman. If you like romantic stories that make you smile, cry and dream, this is #1. My favorite line is, “In case I forget to tell you later, I had a really good time tonight.”
What is your motto, personal mantra, or favorite quote?
“Our family is a circle of love and strength. With every birth and every union, the circle grows. Every joy shared adds more love. Every obstacle faced together makes the circle stronger.” — anonymous
When are you happiest?
See my answer to the question above about what I couldn’t live without.
