Name, title, company, QCC degree and year of graduation.
My name is Hazel D. Berry, and I am a resident of Worcester. I proudly graduated from Quinsigamond Community College in 1993 with an Associate of Science. Later, in 2005, I earned a Bachelor of Arts, "Magna Cum Laude," from Curry College and joined the Alexander Graham Bell Honor Society.
I served as a Worcester Police Officer from 1980 until my retirement in 2016. Retirement is not always easy, but after years of building relationships with colleagues and others, I have come to value those who supported me. When you are passionate about your career or interests, you truly perform at your best.
How did QCC impact your journey?
Quinsigamond Community College helped me believe in myself and gain the independence that led to substantial lifetime earnings. I enjoyed great job security and fostered personal growth through critical thinking, which helped build my self-confidence and self-esteem. This experience truly allowed me to become more independent.
What are you currently doing?
I work as a Campus Security Officer at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, located in vibrant downtown Worcester. MCPHS offers a variety of programs, including nursing, physician assistant, dental hygiene, physical therapy, occupational therapy, pharmacy, sonography, optometry, and acupuncture. It is fulfilling to see our medical students actively serving in the community.
Throughout my journey, I have been honored with several awards, including the Diocese of Worcester Ecumenical Award in 2002 and the Lieutenant Loman Rutherford Award in 2008, which recognize outstanding service and community support. In 2009, I received the City of Worcester Women of Consequence Award, and in 2014, I received the Katherine Forbes Erskine Award for my contributions to social services and government.
In addition to my work, I have served as a board member for the YWCA of Central Massachusetts and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). I currently serve on The Daybreak Standing Committee.
I also participate in a walking group for people with vision impairments called Talk-Fit. We enjoy exploring various parks, playgrounds, art shows, libraries, and other exciting locations around the city every Saturday morning.
Through it all, I keep my priorities straight: God and family come first in my life. I attribute who I am to my Higher Power, and my children and family shape my very being.
What advice would you give to current students and fellow alumni?
I will say always take time for yourself. You are important. I would also say prioritize all things that are needed for your success, always attend classes, build relationships with the professors, utilize the campus resources, focus on time management, and find ways to create good study habits to keep up with your scheduling, whether it's work, family, or other personal needs. Know your support system and use it to navigate. Finding a network is a small step to achieving long-term goals.
How can we connect with you and support you if needed?
I love providing support and giving back. I'm available most afternoons and prefer one-on-one or small group settings.