Celeste Easter, director — talent delivery and Global Business Services
an opportunity of a lifetime
I received an email from my Randstad Sourceright “family” that began an unbelievable journey that changed my son’s life. Earlier this year, Randstad Sourceright’s Anissa Patman, compliance manager, and Scotty Parrish, senior VP of client services, both shared news about an opportunity for kids in 8th through 11th grade: The Harvard Debate Council Diversity Project.
The Harvard Diversity Project is an official program of Harvard College, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. This competitive program offers 34 weeks of accelerated instruction, and culminates in a two-week residency at Harvard during the summer. The rigorous application process consists of five elimination rounds, and the competition is tough. I told my son Darrell about it and, after the first interview, he was sold — hook, line and sinker. He turned to me and said, “Mom, I really want this.”
leadership that truly cares
Darrell was only 5 years old when I started working for Randstad Sourceright. Then, when he was 10 years old, he met his hero — and mentor — Bob Lopes, chief human resources officer, Randstad North America. Bob had heard that my son thought it was so cool that an executive where I worked had once been a professional baseball player.
I remember when Bob was hosting his very first town hall meeting. Darrell was so excited that he listened in on that meeting, and became a Bob Lopes “fan.” He said, “I need to meet him. He's a baseball man and a businessman. That's what I want to be when I grow up, Mom.”
When Bob made a point of meeting me and the family at the Atlanta Airport, Darrell was thrilled. Many times we have enjoyed good times with Bob and other co-workers at barbecues and backyard parties.
a flexible, supportive work environment
I have two wonderful sons, both autistic. Darrell has limited movement in his right arm due to a birth injury, plus sensory and nerve issues. School has been tough, very tough! But I am so grateful for Randstad Sourceright. The flexibility and support my Randstad family has shown me has directly contributed to the success of both my sons.
It was ten years ago when I said yes to a six-week project with Randstad Sourceright. At first, the work-from-home gig sounded too good to be true. I thought this job must be a scam, but it was legitimate! The flexible schedule enabled me to take my sons to their therapy appointments and be accessible when they needed me. It has been a true gift.
a Randstad Sourceright family celebration!
I shared the good news right away with my friends and co-workers at Randstad Sourceright: Darrell was chosen among thousands of applicants as one the 25 African American students to participate in this year’s Harvard Diversity Project! Darrell was so happy and proud to call Bob to share the news last week.
I want everyone at Randstad Sourceright to know that this is our celebration! You all have supported me and my boys, believed in us, cried with us, laughed with us — shared our lives together like family. I appreciate you all more than you will ever know. Thank you for being leaders that care. Leaders that love. Leaders that lead … and not just for employees but for our families and so many that are impacted by what we do!