Blog Post

Remembering Yolanda Wilson

Today’s post is by Patricia Baker, president & CEO

On Mother’s Day, May 8, 2016, Yolanda Wilson, the Connecticut Health Foundation’s longtime office manager passed away suddenly.  Her death occurred during her recovery from back surgery.  The foundation staff and board are shocked and devastated by the loss and are struggling to accept this new reality.

Yolanda served the foundation since March of 2007; first as our receptionist/administrative assistant and a year later promoted to office manager.  Yolanda embraced this new role with an eagerness to learn and a desire to serve.  She sought out opportunities to increase her skills and knowledge in order to grow with the foundation.

Yolanda’s life experience deepened her dedication to the mission of the foundation and her willingness to do whatever was needed.  She often was the one that turned off the lights at night as she worked to finish the project of the day whether that was making sure the board intranet went live, or completing payroll or accounts payable, or upgrading the newest technology for the foundation.  Her supervision of the administrative team demonstrated her deep empathy and understanding as well as her vision of excellence and teamwork.  She was the glue that kept the foundation humming and helped to create a warm welcoming environment in which we could do our best work.

While we mourn her loss, we are well aware of the deep loss suffered by her two daughters and their families, including the loves of her life — her young grandsons.  Being a good parent and loving grandparent were central to her life. Yolanda will long be remembered for her gentle voice and her deep concern for her family and her colleagues.  She wanted to know how your children were doing, always expressing her support and her deep faith.

We were fortunate to have shared this time with her, and we are grateful for all she has given.  We are better for it.

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