Sue Strong, left, and Caitlin Dederick have been working together in preparation for Strong’s departure and Dederick’s new role.
Sue Strong, a school counselor at Questar III’s Columbia-Greene Educational Center for the past 15 years, will retire this month. Recently, Strong has been working with her replacement, Questar III Communications Specialist Caitlin Dederick, to prepare for the changing of the guards.
Over the years, Strong has helped students plan out their courses but has also introduced a number of morale boosting events such as the year-end celebration for students and staff.
“The best part of my job is working with faculty and students in our programs,” said Strong. “We have such great programs and I really believe in them. I found the perfect job.”
Strong said she is very thankful for the opportunity to be able to work with Dederick and show her the ropes before she leaves for good. Although Dederick has been a Questar III employee for three years writing about various CTE programs, the specifics to this particular job are many.
Dederick, who holds a master’s degree in school counseling and who worked as a counselor in several districts, said she is looking forward to returning the field.
“It’s huge to be able to have this time to work together and I’m so thankful Questar III supported that,” said Dederick. “Sue feels better handing it off, because this is her baby!”
Strong said she may work as a substitute after retirement, which will allow her to be accessible to Dederick during her transition.
“My advice to you,” said Strong to Dederick. “Always have fun and you’ll love coming to work. If the kids are having fun, they’ll love coming to school and they’ll love learning because it doesn’t feel forced.”
