Leadership Spotlight: Alex Hoyle

Meet our Foster Family Agency Director Alex Hoyle

How long have you been with EA? How did your career path lead you to your role here?

7 years. I started with EA in 2019 as an intern in my Bachelors program, excited to start in the field of social work but unsure where it would take me. I became a Social Worker Assistant/Transporter, Case Manager, Social Worker, and started as a Social Worker Supervisor in 2023. Being in leadership position now, my experience in all these roles has helped me to understand how our agency functions on a day to day basis. I know how important every position is when it comes to providing our clients with the best service possible!

Now moving into the position of FFA Director, I am excited for this new chapter and many more years at EA!

How do you prioritize self-care while leading in a high-demand field?

Utilizing time off is one of my favorite ways to practice self care! I am a big advocate for staff, including myself, to take their time off and actually be off. It’s hard to help others when you are feeling overwhelmed yourself. I love to have a week long staycation once a year to reset. I always come back to work recharged and ready to be there for others!

What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I’m a huge 49ers fan! My husband and I have had season tickets for 6 years and rarely miss a game. What I love just as much as a good game, is good snacks!

What’s a small daily habit that helps you stay productive?

Utilizing folders in my email has been a life saver! With our email being such a vital form of communication, keeping it organized helps me to filter by priority and makes my inbox less overwhelming.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Don’t take things personally! Working in this field, it’s easy to feel down or take it personal when you have a frustrated client who’s upset with the situation they are in. Remembering that the clients in our care didn’t choose to be in foster care. Their reactions and behaviors are often expressions of trauma, loss, and uncertainty, and aren’t a direct attack at you personally.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I look forward to getting together at our next annual conference and continuing to grow with each and every staff member at EA!!