This year, we asked employees why they chose to become public servants. Here are a few of the responses we received from employees across the Department.
Yolanda, FEMA
Years of Public Service: 13
“My path to government service was very different than most. I was an emancipated minor, a teenage mother, young, building a family, struggling to buy groceries and pay rent, a college graduate, a wife, a leader, a proud black and indigenous woman, a champion of equity – I am all of these things. I am also FEMA. There are many with stories like mine and I share unashamed because this is who I am.
The decisions I make support response, recovery, and continued resilience of communities across the nation. I have no idea what other job allows you the opportunity to directly impact people in that way. I choose to do this because this mission is about serving all people. I didn't serve in the military like a lot of my family, but I get to serve this country and its citizens in a way that I know make my ancestors proud."
Catrina Bonus, Deputy Chief James J. Rowley Training Center, USSS
Years of Public Service: 25 years, 7 months
“I serve because it gives me great pride to be in service to others. Public service provides me with a sense of purpose, and I work hard to make a positive difference in our profession, for the Department, in our communities, and for our country."
Edward, CISA
Years of Public Service: 4
Years of Military Service: 26
I serve as a federal employee because I want to continue what I started when I joined the United States Air Force. Contributing to the security of America and helping those in need. For me there is no greater feeling than helping others and working for the federal employment gives me a great opportunity to do that every single day. Whether it's working with other agencies to improve their cybersecurity poster or deploying as a surge capacity force member to assist local communities in the aftermath of a disaster, it all boils down to making this nation more secure and improving the lives of others. This is why I serve as a federal employee.
“Mickie", FLETC
Years of Public Service: 30
Years of Military Service: 21
“I serve because I know that my life is blessed because of what others have done for me and I want to pay it forward. I would not be the person I am today without other public servants guiding and mentoring me in my life and it has not only inspired me to be a better person but to also to continue to carry the torch to lead others to do the same."
Chaplain Andrew Hoyle, USCG
Years of Public Service: 9
Years of Military Service: 9
I serve as a federal employee because I have a passion and calling to support the amazing individuals and families who have committed themselves to dedicating their lives to serving our nation! Those who serve as part of DHS have invested themselves in securing our nation from various threats and harm and, it is my great privilege to be part of a network of support for these individuals and families.