Two Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) staff members recently received their Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential through the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), the first at The Woods to receive the distinction.
Peggy Nash, executive assistant to the president, and Brenda Shay, executive assistant for admissions, both agree that this certification help progress their professional careers. The outcomes of this certification include organizational communication, business writing and document production, operational functions and various types of management knowledge.
With nearly 50 years of administrative professional work under their belts combined, Nash and Shay said getting this credential has been long time coming and helps show their commitment and knowledge.
“I learned long ago that this is a field that requires individuals who are willing to work hard without requiring the spotlight – which is why it’s a good fit for me,” Shay said.
Nash wholeheartedly agreed, adding that she has “been blessed to support great leaders.”
While the process of getting the certification was time-consuming – the two joined a study group and met every other week to study – Shay believes the work was well worth it. She said although there are many people in the administrative professional field, there are a fair number who don’t know that training and professional development is available.
“Having Peggy and myself be the first at The Woods to be CAP certified is the start of getting the word out there, not only for our institution, but the Wabash Valley,” Shay said.
However, the hard work did not come without support from within The Woods. Nash and Shay were encouraged by Brennan Randolph, vice president for enrollment management and institutional technology, to pursue the credential to enhance their professional careers.
“Professional development is very important at The Woods and we are excited to see both Peggy and Brenda achieve their CAP certification,” he said. “This achievement will help them stand out in their field and we are grateful for their determination to pursue this certification.”
A three-hour long online exam tested their skills in six CAP domains. They must recertify for the credential every three years by earning points through attending webinars and events.
“I think it is important to note that there are branches of IAAP all over; however, there aren’t any in Terre Haute or the Wabash Valley,” Shay said. “I would love to see more IAAP involvement and events closer to home.”
After the stress – and the relief – that came with preparing for the test and passing it, Nash also said she is appreciative for the journey with Shay.
“I am grateful that I was able to prepare for this with Brenda,” Nash said. “It gave me a chance to get to know her better, build a friendship and improve an already positive working relationship.”