It seems like just yesterday they were graduating kindergarten. Now your son or daughter is getting ready to graduate high school or college…and you couldn’t be more proud, excited, and maybe just a little bit sad that this chapter is coming to a close.
You’re not the only one feeling this way. (Chances are your son or daughter is too.) Here’s how you can prepare for the big day to help everyone celebrate this milestone to the fullest—and honor all that has happened to bring you here.
1. Embrace the emotions—all of them.
Ask any parent who’s had a child graduate. You can expect a roller coaster of emotions in the weeks before, the day of, and the weeks after. Accept them. Share them, as appropriate, with your child, your partner, and other parents experiencing the same thoughts and feelings. Your role as a parent is changing and it’s okay to feel a little sad or overwhelmed. Your child is probably feeling similarly, in saying goodbye to school friends and transitioning to the next phase. Tell your son or daughter what it was like when you graduated. This may encourage him or her to share their thoughts and feelings with you. Put graduation in perspective and remind yourself that your child is growing up and going on to accomplish big things in the real world. That’s something to celebrate.
2. Mark your calendar.
The last thing you want to do is double book something on graduation day, or schedule things too close to the big day. You want to be sure that you know exactly when and where you need to be. Mark the date and time clearly on the calendar, and include any other important dates leading up to the event. While high schools hold a single commencement, universities typically hold several—small commencement ceremonies by program or major and a large graduation ceremony for all—so make sure you get everything written down. This is a great time to make appointments for haircuts, manicures and pedicures, or any other personal grooming that you desire.
3. For graduation out of town, book a hotel and transportation.
If your student attends school away from home, you’ll want to make sure that you book your hotel, airfare, and rental car well in advance. Hotels are especially important as there are limited rooms near campus and lots of families who will be booking them. The university may have a graduation page on its website with recommendations for hotels. You can also check Airbnb, VRBO, and other rental sites. There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel.
4. Plan who is attending which graduation events.
There is likely a limit to how many guests may attend graduation. That may cause some family drama, especially if you’re dealing with divorce or extended families. Start with a conversation with the graduate-to-be. Discuss their wishes and your own. Know that you can’t please everyone. Make thoughtful decisions, and try to include everyone in some way or another. For example, arrange a watch party for the virtual event while parents attend in person. Then meet up afterward for a celebration. Do you have two students graduating at two different locations? See who can attend so each student has someone there.
Pro Tip: Sometimes schools will have extra tickets available after the initial ticket distribution. If you are looking to seat an additional family member, it’s definitely worth inquiring. Also, if you need special accommodations such as handicapped seating, inquire well in advance.
5. Choose a place for your celebration.
If you are going out, keep in mind that you’ll need to make reservations. Every restaurant within a short drive will likely be filled with families celebrating graduation after the ceremony. Discuss with your student where you may go to celebrate and when so that your son or daughter will also be able to connect with friends if desired. Or you can choose to have a graduation party at home, where you can invite friends and family to come and celebrate all together. Just be sure to make food/dessert arrangements and send out invitations in advance.
6. Set the stage with some great decor.
Celebrate the happy occasion with the neighborhood by posting a Happy Graduation Sign on your front lawn or front door. This helps create a festive mood leading up to the event and also is great for photos. Whether or not the graduation party is at home, add some festive touches like balloons, streamers, and banners. You can even create a photo collage of your child over the years to show how far he or she has come!
7. Choose a graduation gift.
You want something for your graduate to remember the occasion but it doesn’t have to be an expensive gift. Some families use graduation to pass along treasured heirlooms or create meaningful gifts like family trees or photo albums. High school graduates may get a college survival kit; similarly, you can make one for a college graduate moving away from home. Some other popular gifts include luggage (for future travel), savings bonds, laptops or smart devices, and jewelry. You also can find personalized gifts on Etsy and lists of suggested graduation gifts online.
8. Figure out the logistics.
This is one time you absolutely do not want to be late. Are you the one dropping off? Determine how long it will be to get to graduation. Leave plenty of time in the schedule to get to where you need to be. Account for traffic. Allow time for taking photos before you leave. Before you drop off, arrange with your student where you will meet up afterward amidst the post-graduation crowd. It’s going to be busy—and they are all going to be dressed alike!
9. Know what to bring—and not to bring.
Review the rules for graduation. You may not be able to bring food or drink, or even large purses. Is the ceremony outdoors? Bring sunscreen and a hat, or an umbrella and raincoat if necessary. Wear comfortable shoes; there will probably be a lot of walking. Don’t forget to pack that extra pack of tissues or a handkerchief to catch all of those tears of joy!
10. Enjoy the moment.
This is the day you’ve all been waiting for. Celebrate it with pride, and enjoy every moment—even the ones that may not be picture perfect. Your child has reached an incredible milestone and you were a large part in helping them take this step toward their future. Reminisce, but try and keep all of the baby photos and embarrassing stories packed away until you get home. Your child will appreciate it. Go ahead and make some memories that you’ll be able to cherish for years to come. Don’t forget to take pictures.
Happy graduation from all of us at California Casualty!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
We have amazing employees at California Casualty. The NewEmployee Spotlight is a series aiming to highlight the talented individuals that are brand new to our team. Please help us give them a warm welcome!
Today we’re spotlighting New Claims Adjuster. Rich Gilliam
Let’s get to know, Rich!
Where are you from?
I work in the Arizona office, but I’m originally from Farmington, NM.
What is one interesting fact you want us to know about you?
I am a two-time brain cancer survivor.
If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Steak
What do you like to do on the weekends?
Theatre
Singing
Spending time with my sons
What made you want to start your new career with California Casualty?
I enjoy being a claims adjuster and love the company culture at California Casualty!
If you want to learn more about Rich or are interested in a career at California Casualty, connect with him on LinkedIn! Or visit our careers page at https://www.calcas.com/careers
In 2021 the California Casualty Partner Relations Department recognized several employees in three separate categories: Mountain Mover, Rookie of the Year, and Partner Relations Advocate. These employees were selected for demonstrating some or all of these qualities; their commitment and dedication to serving our group partners by developing and nurturing relationships, creating leader advocates supporting company goals, managing their territory strategically, and delivering extraordinary customer service.
The Mountain Mover was the most prestigious award given and is selected by the Partner Relations Management Team. Angela Morgan (ID & WA), was selected as the 2021 Mountain Mover for the qualities listed above in addition to demonstrating teamwork, a strong work ethic, and a high level of integrity. Brian Goodman, Angela’s manager, stated that she is a “hardworking, fearless territory manager,” and added, “how she manages her business each and every day is inspiring.”
The Partner Relations Management Team also selected one individual within their first three years of service to the department for the Rookie of the Year. Gabby Sole (KS & OK), received this honor based on her results and activity. Gabby’s manager, Shawn Courtney, commented, “Gabby demonstrated a talent to build relationships with leaders and identify opportunities to a path of success.”
Nominated by a Partner Relations manager or fellow peer, the 2021 Partner Relations Advocate Award recipients were Angie Rajczyk (CA), Christina Ramos (NJ), and Michelle Hawkins (WA).
Angie has been a fixture in her northern California territory for over eleven years and is well respected among the various group leaders, fellow business partners, and her colleagues. Brian Goodman noted “Angie is a versatile leader that, has a calm and effective way of accomplishing her goals. These qualities have been the drive behind her success.”
Since her hire date nearly five years ago, Christina has generated remarkable production results in her New Jersey and Delaware territory. She is extremely hardworking and passionate about her job responsibilities and relationships. Christina’s manager, Amy Grosso, shared, “Christina’s commitment to high-quality work shines through each day. The access and opportunities that she has secured is impressive and motivating.”
With seven years of experience in her Washington territory, understanding advocacy and how leveraging relationships affects field access, retention, business growth, and her overall marketing plan is Michelle’s key to success as an advocate. Brian Goodman, Michelle’s previous manager stated, Michelle, is one of our very best. She knows exactly what she is doing and is a fantastic Partner Relations Advocate.”
As we finished a second year of uncertainty, the efforts of these individuals stood out as they continued to adapt to an ever-changing environment. Congratulations to all the 2021 Partner Relations award recipients!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
This month we celebrate the successful career of Lisa Almeida, AVP- Key Account Manager of territories- National (UMP), California (CTA & ACSA), Arizona, Nevada, Utah NEA Affiliates, and Administrators. Lisa started with California Casualty back in February of 1993 and will retire in April.
We recently had the pleasure to sit down with Lisa and discuss her life and her career at California Casualty. Here’s what she told us:
“I was born in Redondo Beach, California. If you listen carefully to the Beach Boys’ “Surfin USA”, you’ll hear a brief shout out to my hometown. I grew up in many beachy areas of Southern California until I got married and moved to Miami. During my time in Florida, I finished college at Miami Dade, started a family, and began my permanent 37+ year career in the insurance world. That’s when I moved back to SoCal and started working for California Casualty in 1993.”
California Casualty was actually a client of Lisa’s when she worked for American Bankers Insurance Group. That is where she met Linda Anderson and Mary Wilson (both retired from California Casualty Agency Services). She loved working with the California Casualty and the Agency Services team so much she was encouraged to apply for a Field role with the company. “Honestly, it was not only their support of the company that inspired me to apply,” says Lisa, “but it seemed that everyone that worked for CalCas had just an extraordinary amount of tenure. And, being in the insurance industry, I heard nothing but praise for the company’s sterling reputation and excellent customer service.”
Throughout her career with California Casualty Lisa has held many positions, but it’s her love for Group Marketing/Partner Relations that has kept her in the department her entire tenure.
“I started as a Field Representativeive (now Field Marketing Manager) and within a year I was promoted to Senior FMM. After that, I was fortunate enough to earn an Associate Account Manager role, then Team Supervisor followed by about 10 years as West Region Manager. For about the last six years, I’ve been the Key Account Manager for the California Teachers Association. I will say that this position has been my absolute favorite. Not only have I had the privilege of working with some of the most influential and inspiring educators in the state, but I’ve also learned more about the operations of California Casualty than in any other role that I’ve had during my 29 years.”
When asked about her most memorable accomplishments she said, “Oh gosh, back in the day, I did achieve Presidents/Pinnacle Club status multiple times and that is always an honor.
Most importantly, I think working as the California Teachers Association (CTA) Account Manager has been quite an achievement, especially when you look back historically at how few of us there have been in the role since 1951. It’s humbling to be a part of such a distinguished group of individuals. Also, as the spokesperson on behalf of California Casualty for the California School Recognition Program, it has been such a privilege to work with the Department of Education and CTA in that unique capacity. The opportunity to represent this wonderful company and speak in front of thousands of educators throughout the state was just amazing!
Additionally, our partnership with United MileagePlus has been rewarding, and having the opportunity to act as the National Manager for that group for the last few years was a true learning experience.”
Looking back on her career and all of her achievements she says what she will miss most is the friendships she has made, both inside and outside of the company. She says, “I have been so fortunate to have gotten to know so many truly talented, generous, and kind individuals and it saddens me sometimes that I won’t get to see them as often. Still, they all leave me with some beautiful and fun memories…and thank goodness for Facebook.”
And her colleagues will certainly miss her! Lisa’s friends Brian Goodman, AVP-Partner Relations, Debbie Harris, Vice President Field Relations, and her direct report Inez Morales, Senior Field Marketing Manager, had a few parting words they wanted to say to, and on behalf of, Lisa.
“I’ve worked with Lisa for all 27 of my years here at California Casualty. I met her after just a couple of weeks on the job at a Group Marketing (now Partner Relations) department meeting in San Ramon, CA. That was December 1995. As a 30-year-old newbie just getting started with my California Casualty Field Marketing career, it didn’t take long before I knew this was the Field Territory Manager that I should emulate. Thank goodness I was smart enough to realize that right at the beginning! Eventually, Lisa became my boss. She offered me wise guidance countless times in my career, sometimes without even knowing it. Now, many years later, I consider Lisa a friend. I wish Lisa a sincere congratulations on her esteemed career and the new journey that is ahead. -Brian”
“Over her 29-year career, Lisa has established numerous successful partnerships and life-long friendships with group partners and CalCas employees from coast to coast. Wherever we go, she runs into someone who knows her and feels compelled to give her a hug. Lisa’s caring nature, professionalism, work ethic, and humor is alluring, as well as inspiring. I feel honored to have had the chance to work with Lisa for the past two decades and wish her the best in her retirement. -Debbie”
“I met Lisa 14 years ago at the Colorado Service Center during my new employee orientation. I remember it well because I had the worst altitude sickness ever. Lisa immediately asked, are you okay? Her voice was soft and comforting and instantly made me feel at ease. This is what makes Lisa so special. Her grace, words of encouragement, and guidance kept us sane while chasing goals. Lisa, you are a true professional who shows by example that excellence is something to aim for daily. It has been an honor and pleasure working with you. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! You will be truly missed!!! –Inez”
In retirement, Lisa plans to spend her days with her family and traveling. Only this time around, traveling for fun! She also plans to increase her ministry and attempt to get back into some of the activities (art, golf, gardening, etc.) that were pushed by the wayside due to all the travel that her positions have required over these many years.
Her parting advice to those also looking to have a long-lasting, successful career is to “Work hard. Play nice. Be grateful.”
Thank you for 29 great years, Lisa. We will all miss you and wish you the best. You’ll always be a part of the CalCas family!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
We have amazing employees at California Casualty. The NewEmployee Spotlight is a series aiming to highlight the talented individuals that are brand new to our team. Please help us give them a warm welcome!
Today we’re spotlighting New Underwriting Assistant, Alecia Mathis.
Let’s get to know, Alecia!
Where are you from?
Right here in Colorado Springs!
What is one interesting fact you want us to know about you?
I grew up in the Netherlands
If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Ice cream
What do you like to do on the weekends?
Watching Football
Netflix
Spending time with Family
What made you want to start your new career with California Casualty?
The longevity with current employees.
If you want to learn more about Alecia or are interested in a career at California Casualty, connect with her on LinkedIn! Or visit our careers page at https://www.calcas.com/careers
We have amazing employees at California Casualty. The NewEmployee Spotlight is a series aiming to highlight the talented individuals that are brand new to our team. Please help us give them a warm welcome!
Today we’re spotlighting New Customer Service Specialist, JaMar Phelps
Let’s get to know JaMar!
Where are you from?
I was born in Washington D.C. but grew up here in Colorado Springs
What is one interesting fact you want us to know about you?
I absolutely love BBQ!
If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Ribs
What do you like to do on the weekends?
BBQ (see above)
Spending time with family
Watching movies and sports
What made you want to start your new career with California Casualty?
Was looking for a change of pace and a new family to grow with after being with my previous employer
If you want to learn more about JaMar or are interested in a career at California Casualty, connect with him on LinkedIn! Or visit our careers page at https://www.calcas.com/careers
