CQL is excited to continue our Monthly Staff Spotlight series in 2024! This offers an opportunity for you to get to know our team even better. For our September article, we’re featuring Erica Robinson, one of our incredible Quality Enhancement Specialists!
Erica was enthusiastically nominated by one of her peers, Kristen Baughman. Kristen shares, “I have nominated Erica Robinson for the CQL staff spotlight because she is one of the most intelligent and interesting and kind people I know.” Kristen continues, “Working on an accreditation team with her is such a pleasure. Her vast knowledge and radiant enthusiasm shine through in a truly impactful way!”
We’ve asked Erica a series of questions about her history, background, experiences with CQL, as well as some questions to get to know her better.
What is your position at CQL and what does that role encompass?
I am a part-time Quality Enhancement Specialist. I support organizations in achieving and maintaining accreditation with CQL.
Why did you decide to get involved in the human services field?
I grew up in Jamaica where I volunteered in various social service programs as a teenager. Upon migrating to the USA, I got involved in the human services field because I needed a job with flexible hours while I was in college
What is your professional history, background, and experience?
I have had various positions in the human services field for the past 28 years. I started as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). After graduating from college, I worked as a Service Coordinator, Crisis Intervention Specialist, Behavior Therapist, Regional Director of Residential Services, and Director of Clinical Services.
It was during the position as Regional Director of Residential Services where I was introduced to the Basic Assurances® and Personal Outcome Measures® during the accreditation process. This experience totally changed my world view on the delivery of support and services!
What are three skills you have that help you in your work?
- Enthusiasm
- Curiosity
- Advocacy
Is there anything you would like to share about yourself personally?
I am married with two adult children and grandmother to Kai. I love the outdoors, gardening, nature, traveling and long walks. I am enjoying being an empty nester!
CQL Lightning Round!
Sweet or savory? What is your favorite sweet/savory food?
Savory- sweet potato and avocado combination 🤌
You have to pick a song at karaoke, what song do you choose?
One Love by Bob Marley- It makes me feel “irie”- state of harmony and peace
Would you rather be the funniest or smartest person in the room? Why?
Definitely, the funniest! Laughter is the best medicine. 💊
What is the first concert that you ever attended?
Reggae Sunsplash, a reggae music festival
Who is a person that inspires you (famous or non)? Why?
My grandmother. She was very resourceful and resilient!
What is one city that you would like to visit? Why?
I don’t have a city that I would like to visit, however, I would like to visit Antartica out of curiosity, plus It is the only continent that I haven’t visited.
Name the TV show you could have on repeat 24/7, 365 days a year.
Frasier!
What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given or read?
“Creativity Takes Courage”, by Henri Matisse
What is one thing about you that most people wouldn’t be able to guess?
I am an introvert.
What was your first job?
Admin at a Bauxite Company
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Miss Jamaica 👑🇯🇲
What three words would your family/friends use to describe you?
Fun, resourceful, problem solver
What do you like to do for fun, in your free time?
Travel! ✈️
How many US states/territories have you been to? Which state was the most memorable?
40 States. Hawaii was the most memorable! 🏝️
How many countries have you been to? Which one do you always recommend people visit?
I have visited over 50 countries. I definitely would recommend visiting Jamaica! 🇯🇲 But of course, I’m biased! 😉
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About CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership
Since 1969, CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership has been a leader in working with human service organizations and systems to continuously define, measure, and improve quality of life and quality of services for youth, adults, and older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and psychiatric disabilities. CQL offers accreditation, training, certification, research, and consultation services to agencies that share our vision of dignity, opportunity, and community for all people.
Erica Robinson: September Monthly Staff Spotlight