Vickie Sword is someone who loves life and takes tremendous pride in living it to the fullest! The mother of two has lived in Salem for almost two decades. This week’s Q&A participant is the Salem Parks & Recreation Department Program Supervisor.
What’s the history between you and the City of Salem?
I moved here because of a job transfer. My son and I were very homesick at first but after a couple of years my son met his wife and we got settled in. My daughter moved here afterwards, and after almost 20 years I can’t imagine living anywhere else. Not just because it’s Salem, but because it’s where my children and grandchildren are living. I also have a wonderful man in my life who happens to be from Salem so I suppose I’m staying J
Talk about your education background. Where did you go to school?
I had some college but when I was offered a promotion it was with the stipulation that I acquire my bachelor’s degree. Needless to say, I went to the Roanoke Higher Education Center and got my bachelors in business management.
What is your proudest accomplishment to date?
I could say that it’s my advancement in my career or the fact that at an older age I got my bachelor’s degree, but the truth is, it’s my grown children and their families. They have done well with no major problems and they’re happy. I feel like I’m a big part of that. I also have three wonderful grandchildren and one on the way. Life is good!
How did you become a Program Supervisor for the Salem Parks & Rec Department?
I started in 2001 in HR, After that I moved to the Salem Civic Center as the booking coordinator. During that time I was asked to take a job at parks and rec and clean up the front office files and remodel the office. I was then promoted to recreation program supervisor and now I run the Salem Senior Center, am in charge of summer youth camps and community activities for all ages.
What are some things you like to do in Salem?
I love Salem After Five. I love the greenway. I love to go to the antique and gift shops. I love Salem football. I love to watch my grandsons play youth sports for Salem.
Are there any books you’ve read that you would recommend to others?
Anything that Nicholas Sparks writes. It’s amazing to me that he started at such a young age writing romance novels.
Who are some people that inspire you?
My daughter, Faith, inspires me. She’s so smart and strong, not to mention beautiful. My son, Jarod, who is the most kind person I know. He and his wife, Christina, are the most laid back people I know. They just love life and live it the way they want. Easy going probably describes them best. My older sister, Patty, is probably the smartest person I know and I’ve always looked up to her.
What motivates you?
My desire to be a better person. My desire to be a better Christian for Jesus. My pastor, who is so deep that I love to listen to him teach, as much as, preach.
What does an average week look like for you?
I go to Riverside Evangelical Methodist Church on Sunday, and work Monday through Friday at the Salem Senior Center going. I try to make sure I see each of grandkids at least once or twice during the week and sometimes on weekends. Right now, I’m taking another class, so I study in the evenings when I can. Date night is Friday. “Ask the Pastor” night at church is Wednesday. In between, I just enjoy life doing different things.
If you could go back and give an 18-year-old Vickie some advice, what would you say?
Use that music scholarship and get that college degree now. However, if that happened I may not have my children or grandchildren, so I’m not sure I would have changed a thing. Life is good.
-Compiled by Shawn Nowlin