Administrative Professionals Week, originally called National Secretaries Week, is always observed the last full week in April.  Celebrated worldwide, Administrative Professionals Day will be on April 26, 2006, and the week's observance will run from April 23-29. 

Administrative Professionals Week began in 1952 as an effort to acknowledge support staff professionals for their day-to-day work efforts.  In DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam I wish to recognize these key individuals for their dedication and commitment to excellence.  According to the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), the theme for the 2006 observance, "Creating Excellence," speaks volumes about what I observe and hear in my office, the district offices, and throughout our 45 schools. 

I am always impressed by the level of professionalism demonstrated by our Administrative Assistants each and everyday.  In my travels and meetings with commanders, parents, and senior administrators I always receive numerous compliments about our support staff personnel.  In fact, the number one question asked within our schools by this group of individuals is, “How can I help you?” 

The people working in administrative support roles provide the first impression visitors receive when they enter our schools and offices .  Administrative professionals fulfill many critical roles – they are public relations officers, logistics coordinators, information specialists, heath care providers, and above all good listeners.  Most importantly, they fulfill each request with class and a smile.  They do all this along-side their never-ending administrative duties.

The contributions of Administrative Assistants represent a critical part of our mission allowing us to continue providing every student with a world-class education.  Their sincere dedication and tireless efforts are at the heart of our achievement of performance-driven, efficient management systems. The work they do is immeasurable – they are true ambassadors within our schools and throughout the communities we serve.

It is with deep gratitude that I extend to all administrative assistants a sincere thank you for the outstanding services you provide our students, parents, and administrators.

Please join me in honoring and celebrating our DoDDS Pacific administrative professionals on April 26 and throughout the week.

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam