Employee of the Month: Veronica Lopez

Meet EA Office Manager Veronica Lopez

How long have you been with EA? What roles have you had?

2-1/2 years. I have served as the Office Manager in our Bakersfield office, coordinatingveronica lopez and facilitating daily operations to ensure the office runs efficiently.

What originally made you want to work with EA?

Coming to EA was never just about finding another job. After spending 23 years in the real estate industry, I was ready for a new challenge and a more meaningful career path. I was interested in working for a nonprofit agency, valued the stability of a consistent work environment, and was eager to grow in a different professional setting.

Describe what your best day on the job looks like.

My best day on the job is one where the office is running smoothly, and I am able to successfully support both staff and agency operations. As the Office Manager, my responsibilities are very diverse and include being present during business hours to open and close the office, answering incoming calls, entering data into Kidnet, filing paperwork, updating and fingerprinting RFA prospective families, assisting newly hired employees with onboarding paperwork, maintaining the agency bank account checkbook, issuing THP rent and biweekly stipend payments, ordering office supplies, helping maintain the cleanliness and organization of the office, and ensuring EA vehicles are properly maintained.

I enjoy being able to manage multiple responsibilities, stay organized, and provide support wherever it is needed. Every day brings different tasks and challenges, which keep the work rewarding and meaningful.

What do you wish people knew about working in your field?

I would want them to know how much work happens behind the scenes to keep an office and agency operating efficiently. In this field, every task matters, from administrative support to helping staff and families receive the resources they need. It requires organization, patience, flexibility, and a genuine commitment to helping others.

How do you practice self care?

I practice self-care by making time for the things I genuinely enjoy, and that help me stay physically and mentally healthy. I enjoy taking late evening bike rides, going to the gym two to three times a week, and participating in yoga and Pilates classes. I have also returned to a childhood passion of mine, which is ballet.I truly enjoy the health benefits ballet provides, especially the strength training, balance, and discipline it encourages. These activities help me recharge, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

What's a hidden talent you have, or something about yourself that would surprise most people?

One thing that may surprise people is that I recently returned to ballet, which was a passion of mine growing up. While most people know me as organized and administrative in the workplace, ballet allows me to express creativity, discipline, and focus in a completely different way.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I would just like to add that I truly enjoy being part of EA and appreciate the supportive work environment. I value the relationships I have built with my coworkers and leadership, and I especially appreciate the guidance and support of my supervisor. Working here has allowed me to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful work that supports others.