Being a hub of activity, the front office can be a chaotic place to work. With a steady stream of students, families, teachers, and staff funneling through there on a daily basis, it’s a wave of noise and confusion that would make the faint of heart flee at a moment’s notice. For nearly the last 20 years, one person has braved this area with a sharp wit and a steely reserve: Ms. Ginny Nacerino. Forever stylish, proper, and organized, Ms. Nacerino can find the most obscure bit of information within a moment’s notice and point you in the necessary direction for you to complete your task. This December brings about her retirement, so we sat down with her for one last time before she sets off to continue the great work she continues to achieve in local government.

What inspired you to be an administrative assistant?

I had taken several Civil Service exams to quality for various civil service positions. I was canvassed for a position at Brewster High School in August of 1999. During the interview process, I was offered the position on the spot. I was immediately inspired by the wonderful people I had just met that day and the prospect of working with children in a school environment. It has been one of the best decisions I ever made.

Where did you start out in this career? Did you go to school to study it? Where did you go to high school?

I started out working for an engineering firm in Westchester. I took various business, technology and management courses. I went to Edgemont High School in Scarsdale, New York.

Have you always been an administrative assistant?

I guess the answer to that question would be yes and no. While I have always maintained an administrative assistant position, I have worn many different hats throughout the years. I served as a member of the Patterson Zoning Board of Appeals for 7 years. I then went on to be elected to the Patterson Town Board and served as a councilwoman for 6 1/2 years. During part of my tenure, I was appointed Deputy Supervisor. For the last six years, I have served as a Putnam County Legislator, and during that time I was appointed Deputy Chair for two years and Chair of the Legislature for two years. On November 6th, I was re-elected for another 3-year term of office.

What can you tell us about the highlights of your career at BHS?

The highlights have been too numerous to recount. To sum it up, I would say seeing the kids in action from the fields, to the theater, to drives for the troops, to philanthropy, and to ultimately receiving their diplomas has been most rewarding. From a personal perspective, I have been blessed to work in a wonderful environment with wonderful people. I take away everlasting memories and friendships that I cherish.

Do you think there are lessons you have learned from your time here?

Each day has brought forth a new adventure and experience. Working with adolescents, along with adults of varied age groups and personalities, I have learned that the human spirit is universal. We are more alike than we are different. Acknowledgment, acceptance, compassion, empathy and kindness are virtues we all should strive for because they truly define humanity.

What advice can you leave to Mrs. Lynch?

Always remember that first and foremost she complements the office of the principal. In addition to the duties and responsibilities, this is a service-oriented position and many will seek help and advice on a daily basis. One must always maintain a professional and personal demeanor when accommodating students, staff, and the public.

Lots of people have one place where they think everyone should go. Where is the one place for you?

I believe the one place everyone should go is where your heart takes you. For me, it is family. Geographically, my plan is to spend winters in Florida.

As you approach retirement, what are you most looking forward to?

For starters, I am looking forward to not getting up at 5:30 AM! While I will still maintain my seat on the Legislature, I am looking forward to spending time to reinvent myself in some capacity and to have the leisure time to pursue varied interests and hobbies.

The staff of Bears Facts thanks Ms. Nacerino for her years of dedication and wishes her the best of luck in her retirement!