34 CROSSROADS SCHOOL FOR ARTS & SCIENCES
RETIRING EMPLOYEES
Zerita Coleman
It’s probably fair to say that nobody has held more jobs at Crossroads than Zerita Coleman. In her 25 years at the School, she has held no fewer than 20 positions! She began in 1995 as a part-time crossing guard on the 21st Street Campus, but word soon got around that she was willing and able to handle a variety of roles. Zerita quickly established herself as the go-to person for all divisions and departments of the School. Since then, Zerita has served as a clerical assistant, Upper School registrar, Elementary School Hang Out assistant, Middle/Upper School library clerk, ACT/ SAT proctor, volleyball box office staffer, Upper School substitute receptionist, test center coordinator—and the list goes on! While she’s loved every position she’s held, her favorite was that of sixth grade assistant teacher for five years. Not only did she adore working with the children, but she was thrilled to have the responsibility of teach-
Angel Dela O
ing Black history to her sixth grade students. Zerita loved her work, but as she says, “It’s the people who make Crossroads what it is. Crossroads allows each person to be themselves.” The embrace of every person, regardless of status or title in the School, creates a community that Zerita cherishes. She says, “Whatever was going on, I loved being a part of it.” And so she was—fully! In fact, the thing that Zerita is most proud of is shining a light into the lives of others, explaining, “If I can add to your life, you are adding to mine and making it better.” In retirement, Zerita plans to continue the baking that she has enjoyed while at home during the pandemic, including strawberry cheesecake and pound cake from scratch. She’s retiring, but far from finished making and maintaining connections. She looks forward to seeing everyone the next time she comes to the Alley for a visit.
We have Norton Campus Security Supervisor Guillermo Lopez to thank for bringing Angel Dela O to Crossroads 14 years ago. Having worked as a bakery machine operator for 29 years, Angel decided he needed a change. His cousin “Memo” told him about an opening as a part-time security guard at Crossroads, and the rest is history. Angel was stationed at the Norton Campus gate for five years. In 2007, he became a full-time employee. In 2011, he moved to the 21st Street campus, rotating through many different locations to ensure that the campus was secure and our community was safe. From the start, Angel felt welcomed at the School by his colleagues, supervisors and families. While he was initially intimidated by some of the famous faces among the parent body, he was pleased to discover that they were all genuinely nice, down-to-earth folks. He also appreciated the friendliness and thoughtfulness of the students.
When Angel was on a break, you always knew where to find him: indulging his sweet tooth at the Middle School, where there were snacks for the adults. Angel doesn’t have any specific plans for his next chapter, but he looks forward to seeing what will show up in his life. One thing is certain: He’s ready to sit down. After 29 years of standing in the bakery and 14 years of standing in security, his feet are telling him it’s time to stop. He’s happy to spend more time with his wife, Lupe, and enjoy visits from their four adult children. One of his goals is to attend Crossroads events like the Alley Party as a guest and not a worker. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Crossroads, Angel. Thank you for your years of service and your dedication to the safety and well-being of our School community.
