Roberta Cheney has worked for Turlock Unified School District since 1996, and during that time, she has exemplified the phrase “keeping the trains running.” Cheney started at the district as a typist clerk, working her way up to the Superintendent’s Office.  Turlock USD’s Chief Communication Coordinator Marie Russell said Cheney is responsible for a variety of tasks, such as planning district recognition events and organizing the district’s Admin Council. She also plans and oversees two annual professional development sessions for site and district administrative secretaries. “Roberta organizes countless activities, but what makes this one stand out to me is the sheer excitement she has for bringing relevant professional development to staff who are often overlooked,” Russell said. “It is clear to me that Roberta has never forgotten where she started and is committed to ensuring these ladies (and two guys!) know they are valued and appreciated in TUSD.” What’s your favorite book on leadership? My favorite book on leadership is “Monday Morning Choices.” Our superintendent, Dana Trevethan, introduced this book to our Executive Cabinet, and great team-building discussions took place with each chapter. It helps remind us that those we work with are professional and come with our own personal character traits. The book helped me to look at what works best to accomplish the most as a team for the students and staff in our respective district. What’s your favorite quote about leadership? “Being a role model is the most powerful form of educating.” — John Wooden What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? If you are dealing with a difficult situation that just took place, wait at least one day before you respond. What are some of your favorite apps? TUSD; Layar-AR; Twitter; Zoom; ESPN; Pinterest. What’s your best strategy for work/life balance? Family time is family time; work time is work time; exercise time is exercise time; golf time is golf time. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are? Moving from a complete background in the private business sector and beginning at the ground floor learning the public educational sector. What is your proudest accomplishment? Being able to succeed in what I wanted to professionally, while having two successful children and a great husband. Who is someone who inspires you? My mom. What’s your pre-game ritual to get ready for a big meeting or presentation? Having an outline from start to finish going in, and any visual handouts for participants. What was the best ACSA event you’ve attended? The annual CEL dinner. How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position? Through attending workshops, I have made some wonderful friends and professional acquaintances. We continue to share ideas and support each other in all areas of expertise. What has the impact of the COVID-19 worldwide health crisis taught you/how has it inspired you as an educator? To appreciate everyone in my life; and, this is a big one, the use of technology in education.