Sherma’s Journey
Oftentimes, the Alphapointe spotlight shines on a particular employee from one of our various departments in our New York Headquarters. Other times, it appears on one of the many individuals who receive services through our NYHQ Rehabilitation Department, including along their path to community-based employment. However, there are occasions where the spotlight must be spontaneous and fast moving to maintain pace with someone who partakes in all aspects of the process. This is particularly true as it relates to Sherma Lezama.
Sherma was first introduced to Alphapointe when she was referred by the New York State Commission for the Blind in relation to a position as a call center representative. Sherma became a valued Alphapointe team member rather quickly and during her time would work in various departments. People quickly learned that she was reliable, versatile and productive, and soon because well liked among the rest of our staff because of how pleasant she was.
On A Mission
Always looking to enhance her career path, Sherma also sought and received Employment Consultation through Alphapointe’s Career Service Program as she took the initiative to find seasonal employment at Amazon. Sherma continued her time at Alphapointe, not only in her work, but also as a member of Alphapointe’s Employee Support Group. Regardless of her avenue, Sherma continued to exemplify Alphapointe’s intended spirit and a model for the mission.
In July of 2023, Alphapointe was offered the opportunity to present a candidate for a position through the New York State Preferred Source Program in an administrative capacity. Despite an excellent presentation and interview process, Sherma was not chosen for this opportunity. Instead of getting down, Sherma remained positive and ready. When a similar possibility arose in December of 2023, Sherma went through the process once again, undeterred by the previous result. This time, she was chosen for a role as a computer operator for The New York State Department of People with Developmental Disabilities. While still considered an Alphapointe employee, Sherma began this contracted non-permanent role, quickly adapting and showing herself to be an excellent selection. While she received travel assistance, she quickly showed she was capable of excelling. Even from the early stages of her new employment, Sherma had her sights set even higher.
Moving On and Up
This past June, Sherma sent a letter to Alphapointe Human Resources explaining that she was ‘moving on’ from Alphapointe. She would be leaving her contracted role as a computer operator and accepting a full time, permanent position as an Administrative Assistant with Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. This is a full-time position with the State of New York and the culmination of five years of hard work, dedication and believing in herself in a way that is paying huge dividends. Sherma has not only secured a wonderful opportunity but paved the way for other people to follow in her path. Her work in her previous role so impressed her contract employer that they enlisted Alphapointe to help fill the void she left behind. That role was filled with another Alphapointe member who will now have an opportunity to blaze their own trail on the path that Sherma paved.
Although we will miss Sherma, this is exactly what we’re here for … to be a conduit for people to build skills, find employment, and live the life they dream of. And we know it won’t be the last we see of Sherma. She asked if she could still come back for our annual holiday part. When that time comes, she’ll be met with an open door and open arms.
