In the 10 years Whendy Wolverton has worked at Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES, she has tried to do two things consistently and efficiently: Help others, and seek beauty in everything.

Whendy, who works as Principal Account Clerk in the Business Office, goes out of her way to surround herself with things that make her smile. Her office is decorated with floral arrangements she makes herself and silly photos of colleagues and coworkers – all things that contribute to bringing joy into her space, and therefore help her to share joy with those she works with.

“I really enjoy being here, and I enjoy the work I’m doing to support the Business Office,” Whendy said. “Working on a team with 55 other women, you wouldn’t think we all get along, but we really do. We’ve always been able to pull together as a team to get the job done, and we’re always looking out for and supporting one another.”

Though the Business Office has undergone changes in leadership, staffing and procedures over the last few years, Whendy is excited about the recent changes and additions to the staff. There have been big shifts in processes, and she’s excited to be a part of it all.

“Even just in my role, when I think about the way we are going to process billing — we’re implementing a totally new and intuitive process to streamline how we’re billing our component districts,” Whendy said. “I think the Business Office is going in a real positive and forward-moving direction.”

Whendy describes her role as a “non-stop position.” There’s always something that needs her attention or support, and she is ready to help someone else whenever she can.

And although she loves the work, Whendy isn’t shy about her future plans: She’s ready to retire in the next couple of years and move south.

“I want 72 and sunny,” Whendy said, laughing. She plans to move to Georgia, somewhere quiet where she can enjoy her music, her flowers and the warmer weather each and every day.

In the meantime, she’s happy to be a part of the Business Office, and excited to see the innovative and inventive ways the department is moving toward a brighter future.

She hopes her contributions are meaningful, beneficial and practical for everyone she interacts with.

“This role requires a lot of patience and understanding. It’s not as cut-and-dry as people think it is,” Whendy said. “So I try very hard to be helpful and to do my best for everyone I work with. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to do that.”