Essential Piece of the Puzzle
For Human Resources Coordinator Marfi Barnes, every day and season with ASI is marked with growth.
“This isn’t just a place to work, but a place to grow,” she said. “Since I started working here 20 years ago, I’ve found a family. And we certainly have gone through some rough times, but I’ve learned that challenges are essential parts of the growing process.”
In ASI Human Resources (HR), Marfi’s job extends beyond larger system changes, employment and payroll; she directly gets involved with students, which has proven to be the most rewarding part of her job.
“It’s a privilege to be in a role where I can get to know people, listen to them and coach them,” she said. “I was recently nominated as Mentor of the Year by a student, which was the highlight of my year. I’m learning that simple interactions can mean so much, so we have an open door policy in HR.”
Marfi has found that her own personal growth and her mentorship of students work hand in hand. As she pursues wellness, better nutrition and stress management she finds herself encouraging students to do the same. For her, continuing to learn and grow is important to her as a person, wife and mother of three.
“I’ve always been a huge proponent of ‘never stop learning.’” she said. “Whether in or out of your workplace, I’m big on learning, volunteering and doing what you can to know and love others in your community! There’s always room to grow, stay relevant and enhance your skill.”
With her finger on the pulse of the organization’s employment, Marfi has witnessed ASI grow as an organization and helped many students embrace their futures. And participating in their lives is precisely what keeps her doing what she does.
“Through our programs and services, we employ students while also growing and preparing them for the workforce,” she said. “I’ve seen so many students grow into their professions, families and lives that they really love. It’s similar to the pride I feel as a mother, because I’m witnessing their growth personally!”
Marfi Barnes was awarded the Essential Piece of the Puzzle during the October ASI employee assembly. As a part of ASI’s commitment to uplifting customer service, each month all full-time staff participates and votes in this monthly employee of the month program.
