LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Erica Madrigal

Position: Executive Assistant
School: Vintage Hall District Office
School District: St. Helena Unified School District
City, State: St. Helena, CA

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Erica Madrigal was nominated by her superintendent, Marylou Wilson

Ms. Madrigal makes a difference every day. In just three short years, she has changed the culture of the district office and created a positive and professional environment for students, staff, and community members. She promotes positivity and approaches any situation in a kind, calm manner. In a small district, her daily tasks vary from Governing Board agendas to checking residency paperwork and helping students find their way. On a daily basis, she brings her very best self forward.

Prior to Ms. Madrigal joining the District, the secretaries at each site worked in silos - each school managed the same situation differently. Ms. Madrigal now meets with her team regularly and has developed a professional working community. The secretaries are working in tandem, systems and structure are in place, and the schools communicate and collaborate. This makes a positive impact on students, employees, and parents. Ms. Madrigal's leadership is critical, and she takes on any challenge with a huge smile.

Throughout the year, she is responsible for organizing events to promote community and good will. She does so with grace and ease.

Every year, each celebration is even more spectacular. She receives standing ovations from her fellow colleagues, and they eagerly await what special event comes next. Her talent and creativity is much enjoyed by all and an envy of those around her.

"Erica's intuition is astounding! She regularly knows what to do, when to do it, and how to get it done with little prompting or direction. As the superintendent, you can imagine the value I find in this characteristic she brings to work with her every day," Wilson said. "I depend on her, find great joy in working with her, and appreciate her skills, professionalism, and ability to see even when the path is not clear. She is an excellent communicator, is passionate about her work, puts children first in every decision, and is a shining example of LifeChanger."

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Comments (7)

Benjamin Scinto Posted over a year ago

Not only does Erica call me for leftovers from district meetings, but she gave me a batch of irresistible gummy bears from Dean & DeLuca! What more could you ask for? Although seemingly trivial, these are just a couple examples of her overall consideration of and care for individuals. From managing professional development experiences, organization of meetings and events, work flow and output, and professional and personal graces, Erica does it all and has it all! She embodies every aspect you would hope for in a colleague and friend and is truly deserving of this recognition. As both a public school employee and mother, her consideration for students by way of supporting others is always at the fore. I recommend her without the slightest reservation.

Angela Baxter Posted over a year ago

Congratulations, Erica!! Well deserved!

Karin Cox Posted over a year ago

Erica is a ray of sunshine in the district office. Her natural "hostess with the mostest" personality makes the St. Helena District Office feel warm and friendly. She is always calm, always professional, and always positive and caring in her interactions. She makes families and district employees feel personally cared for through her kindness and her thoughtful planning. Erica is an exceptional member of the St. Helena team and this honor is richly deserved.

Andrea Stubbs Posted over a year ago

Erica embodies our core values in the St. Helena Unified School District (SHUSD), in all that she does. She is committed to supporting success for all students, and consistently exhibits professional excellence. She is a beloved member of the team who provides excellent "customer service" for everyone in the SHUSD community.

Tamara Sanguinetti Posted over a year ago

Erica Madrigal is the definition of "professional grace"; she has so many different roles that fall under her purview, yet she somehow has mastered them all. Erica always - not sometimes, but always maintains her professionalism in all situations. Erica values team and has built a strong feeling of team throughout the entire district.

Andi Stubbs Posted over a year ago

Erica embodies everything we value in the St. Helena Unified School District, every day; supporting success for all students and exhibiting professional excellence in all that she does. She acts as an outstanding "face of the district" who greets everyone with a warm smile, easy manner, and excellent "customer service." She is a tremendous asset to our organization.

Chris Heller Posted over a year ago

A well deserved honor and recognition for an integral part of the St. Helena Unified School District. I can validate the information listed above without reservation. Congratulations Erica!