Authored by: Sonja Kania, Chief Talent & Social Capital Officer
How long have you worked at Norris and in what positions?
I started at Norris Academy & Norris, Inc. in 2016 in the role of the IT Coordinator. I was recently promoted to the Director of Information Technology.
What is your favorite Norris memory?
My favorite memory is working in the kiln and doing projects with the youth. I also really enjoy listening to the youth walk around campus singing songs
What is your favorite song of all time?
Hey Jude (of course)!
What was the last gift that you gave to someone?
Essential Oils. (We may even have her try and do a Lunch & Learn focused on this wellness topic)!
What were you like in high school?
Just like I am now! I’ve always been very independent. I was part of all different types of cliques. “Definitely a geek!”
If you received enough money to never need to work again, what would you spend your time doing?
I would go up North. I love fishing! I would also volunteer in the community, I would want to do work and education around suicide prevention and raising awareness regarding human trafficking. These are two topics I feel very passionate about.
What is your favorite food to prepare (or eat)?
BACON!!! (Judy has a great sign in her office that says “I love you more than bacon!”
When was the last time you traveled somewhere new?
Wildwood Wildlife Park in Minocqua, WI. It’s a game preserve that we took our grandkids to recently and they got to pet the animals! They also have a Safari too but we were all too tired to take on that adventure!
How do you spend your free time?
Website development for other places, ceramics, knitting, reading and photography. I’m always going, going. My father and I used to do photography together, so it’s one of my favorite memories and hobbies! Check me out on Flickr: @Sluggosqueen
What is your most useless talent?
I know a lot of useless facts! I’m always connecting random facts with things; connecting the dots, troubleshooting. That’s why I’m in IT.
Who would play you in the Lifetime original movie of your teen years?
Susan Sarandon, from Thelma & Louise era.
What is the best advice that you have been given from staff when you started working here?
I didn’t really get any advice. Although a lot has changed over the last few years; new staff, new kids, new leadership, etc.
What would be your best advice for new staff at Norris?
Remember we all want the same thing! At the end of the day we all have the same goal, even though we might be coming from different place. Don’t forget to SMILE.
What are you most proud of personally and professionally?
The recent fiber replacement project at Norris! I am also really proud of building the Norris network, bringing everything into the 21st century!!
** We are so PROUD of you too Judy for bringing Norris into modern day times!**
Stay tuned for more Employee Spotlights from Norris and if you would like to join our awesome team, check out the “Join Our Team” page on our website for current openings.
