Work Ethic

Gail has always been a hard worker, but what gives her Work Ethic its greatest energy is having something worth working hard for. Throughout her career, she gravitated toward mission-driven organizations, particularly those creating opportunities for children and families with fewer resources. Now in retirement, that sense of purpose remains important to her, and she continues to find it through the significant volunteer work to which she contributes her time and energy.

One of the clearest examples came while Gail was working at the state level in Pennsylvania. She and her colleagues secured $75 million in state funding to create a preschool program serving thousands of children from low-income families. Getting the funding was only the beginning; they then had to build the program while continuing their existing responsibilities. For a time, Gail says, it was essentially like having two full-time jobs. Yet the long hours didn't feel burdensome because she believed so strongly in what they were creating. “It just felt like the right thing to be doing,” she remembers. The program continues today, with substantially greater investment and demonstrated benefits for the children it serves.

Over time, Gail has seen benefits from her Work Ethic that extend beyond what she accomplishes. Working hard has given her confidence that she can deal with what life throws at her and has helped her become a better problem solver. It has also brought remarkable people into her life. Again and again, meaningful work has connected her with people who share her commitment to making a difference.

Gail has also learned that a strong Work Ethic needs to be used thoughtfully. As a leader, she was conscious that her own willingness to work long hours could unintentionally make others feel they should do the same. She avoided sending emails late at night and tried never to ask someone to do something she wouldn't be willing to do herself. Her Work Ethic was her own; she didn't want it to become an unspoken expectation for everyone around her.

Her advice to others begins with purpose. Reflect on what matters to you, and look for work that lets you connect with it. If your work feels out of alignment, be willing to take some risks to move closer to something you find engaging. Gail also encourages people to say yes — to volunteer, try something unfamiliar, or take on a new challenge. Those choices can lead to meaningful work, new relationships, and opportunities you might never have anticipated.

“When the work matters to me, putting in the effort feels like the right thing to do.”

- Gail