CQL is excited to continue our Monthly Staff Spotlight series in 2023. This offers an opportunity for you to get to know our team even better! We’ve asked the staff member a series of questions about their history, background, experiences with CQL, as well as some information about them personally. In March 2023, we’re featuring Linda Cobb, one of our Part Time Quality Enhancement Specialists!
What is your position at CQL and what does that role encompass?
Part Time Quality Enhancement Specialist! Working for CQL was a bucket list dream job and I was really excited to join the team. As a part time QES, I support Full time staff with Accreditations and POM training.
Why did you decide to get involved in the human services field?
I volunteered in middle school for a field day at the local Special Services School. My sister attended this school. I thought from that experience, “why weren’t the kids just going to my school?” I pushed my mom to get my sister moved over to the school that I went to, I felt like it was the right thing to do.
Growing up with a sibling with IDD and seeing her doing, going, and having the life she wants…it now makes me want to push more for everyone else who doesn’t get the choice of having the best life possible.
What is your professional history, background, and experience?
I have worked in this field for 38 years! I started out with volunteer opportunities, then as a DSP in a day program, a group home manager, and now for the last 25 years as Training Director for a provider agency. I have taken many college courses as well: Physical Therapy Assistant, Special Education, and Organizational Management.
What are three skills you have that help you in your work?
- Organized
- Flexibility
- Good Listening Skills
Is there anything you would like to share about yourself personally?
I am married to my best friend, we have 2 grown boys that are now married with families of their own. I have 4 grandchildren. Family is important really important to us, spending time together is necessary to keep my heart happy and full.
CQL Lightning Round!
You’re stranded alone on a desert island and have 3 books to keep you company. Which books are you reading until you’re rescued?
The Power of Moments, Fish!, and The Notebook
How many US States/territories have you been to? Which state was the most memorable?
26! The most memorable state was Alaska; it was so beautiful and the fishing was awesome!
If you could choose one superpower what would it be? What is the first thing you would do with your new power?
Teleportation – I could travel every day of the week ✈️
Name one thing on your bucket list.
A train trip across the country.
Sweet or savory? What is your favorite sweet/food?
Sweet!! Reese’s Cups!
Describe one trick you use to stay productive.
Get up and take a short walk.
What is the first concert that you ever attended?
Reo Speedwagon!
What is one city that you would like to visit? why?
San Francisco! I really want to ride the F Line Cable Car down Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf.
Name one TV show you could have on repeat 24/7, 365 days a year.
Chopped 🔪
What is the best piece of advise you have ever been given or read?
“Live the life you’ve dreamed.” – Henry David Thoreau
What is one thing about you that most people wouldn’t be able to guess?
I have my hunting license!
What was your first job?
I was a life guard!
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A flight attendant
What three words would your family/friends use to describe you?
Loving, Reliable, and Intelligent
What do you like to do for fun in your free time?
Hanging with the grandkids! We love cooking together, fishing, and bonfires
If you could only eat one food for a full week, what would it be?
Bacon
Do you have one totally irrational fear?
Claustrophobic
What is your least favorite household chore?
My least favorite chore is cleaning the dishes – I absolutely love to cook, just not the clean up.
What is the most embarrassing fashion trend you used to rock? Describe your best outfit.
I rocked the big hair!!
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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.
Linda Cobb: Monthly Staff Spotlight