Happy Retirement to Nancy Kong! Nancy is a resident of an Aspire of WNY group home, as well as our agency’s newest retiree! Nancy’s career with the agency began back in 1987 when she joined as an Administrative Assistant at the Center for Learning (CFL.)
In Nancy’s role as an Administrative Assistant at the agency’s CFL, some of her responsibilities included taking attendance for the day, filling mailboxes, delivering laminated papers and other materials, shredding documents, and making announcements for the Snack Shack. Over the years, Nancy has become a beloved figure at Aspire of WNY, best known for her reliability, warm presence, and dedication.
To celebrate a successful 37 years with the agency and mark the beginning of her retirement, the CFL threw Nancy a surprise retirement party. The party was complete with all of the essentials: Cake, balloons, and gifts!
A standout moment from the party is when Nancy’s coworker, Erica Schuler, Occupational Therapist at Aspire of WNY, presented Nancy with a photo memory book filled with moments from her time with the agency. Employees from the CFL all took turns signing their name next to their photos in the book, creating a keepsake that Nancy can cherish forever.
“Nancy would never miss a day of work unless she was sick. She always showed up with a smile, and she loved watching the children grow. She never forgets a name or face, and the kids are always excited to see her,” shared Gary Threat, Coordinator of Vocational Services at Aspire of WNY.
Gary adds, “Every time I’d see her in the halls, we’d talk about sports, the Yankees, or what we packed for lunch that day. We’re both foodies and huge sports fans, so we get along great. We took a lot of pictures on her iPad—those were special to her.”
“Nancy is greatly loved at the CFL. She made friends with almost everyone she worked with and keeps in touch with many of us still. We miss seeing her around here, doing attendance or making deliveries, stopping in to talk to students and staff or having a cup of tea with the nurses. She was such a big part of the Center for Learning, and no one can ever replace her here,” explains Mary Galetta, Occupational Therapy Clinic Aide at Aspire of WNY.
Reflecting on her career with Aspire of WNY, Nancy says she’ll miss the students and her coworkers but plans to stay connected by visiting the CFL often. Post-retirement, Nancy says she is looking forward to going out to dinner often, playing in the Touching Bases Softball League, and spending lots of time at Shea’s Theatre in Buffalo!
Congratulations and best wishes to Nancy! From all of us at Aspire of WNY, thank you for 37 years of dedication and everything you’ve brought to Aspire of WNY. We can’t wait to see you on your visits—enjoy your well-deserved retirement!
