At Region 16's Head Start program, the dedication of staff members like Susana Canas shines through in every interaction, project, and task. Susana's journey is one of growth, service, and a genuine passion for giving back to the community. As the administrative assistant to the assistant director of quality assurance, she plays a key role in creating a welcoming environment for families and staff alike.
Susana's path to Head Start is inspiring. “I have always worked in customer service,” she shares. “I was a server for 10 years, then transitioned to working as a dental assistant where I did scheduling. After that, I served as the campus secretary for six years at Bowie 6th Grade Campus.”
It was during her time at Bowie that Susana first heard about Head Start from friends who worked at Region 16. Encouraged by fellow Region 16 employee Kimberly Seagler, she made the leap. “Now I am here, and I just want to grow more,” she says with a smile.
In addition to her day-to-day work, Susana also helps new hires during onboarding, setting up online training and ensuring everything is ready in the child management system, ChildPlus. She emphasizes the importance of first impressions. “I’m generally the first person families come in contact with,” she says. “I want to make them feel welcome. That welcoming tone can calm nerves and encourage families to ask questions.”
When reflecting on her time at Head Start, Susana is quick to credit her team for the program’s success. “I wouldn’t say me in particular,” she humbly says, “everything here is done as a team.” She recalls the experience of preparing for program monitoring, where the spirit of teamwork was on full display. “It was great to see how everyone came together. It showed the power of teamwork.”
For Susana, her work aligns perfectly with the values of Region 16 and Head Start. “Service with a smile and helping others” are guiding principles she lives by. She believes in providing extraordinary customer service and ensuring families and staff always feel supported. “Helping others is very fulfilling to me,” she shares. “Everybody here is so kind and supportive. It makes it a pleasure to come to work every day.”
Cecelia Forbes, another coworker, adds, “Susana always goes above and beyond to help all those she encounters. She is constantly willing to pitch in her own personal items and time with any project. Susana always has a smile on her face and leaves a warm lasting impression!”
To others looking to grow in their careers, Susana offers simple yet powerful advice: “Have a positive mindset and a positive attitude. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Her own drive to learn shines through in her commitment to personal and professional growth. “I am learning new things every day,” she says. “I want to continue growing in my role and plan to go back to school.”
Susana’s vision for the future is bright. She hopes to see the professional clothing closet expand to support even more families. “It provides such an important resource for interviews or school,” she says passionately.
As Head Start continues to innovate with new ideas to support families and children, Susana feels inspired to be part of something so impactful. “Working here is such a blessing,” she reflects. “The people I work with are amazing, and I love it.”
Susana Canas embodies the heart of Head Start: dedication, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to supporting families and children. Her story is a testament to the power of creating welcoming spaces, fostering growth, and serving with kindness. Thank you, Susana, for all that you do!