Souvann St. John-Brown, Accountant II in the SPH’s finance team, says that working with talented and supportive colleagues not only boosts productivity but also makes each day enjoyable.
When did you join the School of Public Health, and what do you enjoy about working here?
I joined SPH January 2017. Where do I begin? There’s so much I enjoy about working here. I enjoy the opportunity to work with so many professionals. Working with talented and supportive colleagues not only boosts productivity but also makes each day enjoyable. I appreciate the work-life balance that my job offers. It allows me to pursue my passions outside of work and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The best part of my job is the opportunity to constantly learn and grow. I’m exposed to new challenges regularly, which helps me develop both professionally and personally.
What’s a typical workday for you like?
A typical workday for me is waking up at 5:30 a.m. and getting myself and my 3-year-old son ready for the day. By 7:00 a.m., I have already dropped him off to school and am headed to work. When I get into the office, I check for any new emails/tasks and respond accordingly. In addition to meetings, I work on pending tasks. Tasks can include processing invoices, refunds, travel, supplies, purchase card transactions, updating financial spreadsheets, running reports, and all other finance related duties. A typical workday for me also includes managing a team of eight student assistants. I oversee their work and any new incoming matters.
What about your work are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the growth and impact I’ve made within the last five years at SPH. I’ve managed to get promoted twice within the last three years. Starting from administrative coordinator to administrative specialist and now to an accountant II. I am a very hard worker and I always push myself to do more than what is expected. It’s a great feeling to know that it is being recognized.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
When I am not at work I enjoy baking. I find it to be a great way to unwind after a long day and allows me to be creative in the kitchen. As a small business owner, you will usually find me fulfilling cake orders on the weekend. Outside of baking, I enjoy spending time with my family, gardening and traveling.
Staff Spotlight is a regular feature that highlights the role that outstanding staff play in advancing the Georgia State University School of Public Health. To nominate one of your colleagues, email Communications Director Sam Fahmy at [email protected].