Jessica Jane Richard
Year Graduated:
2019
General/Office Manager
Today's Humboldt County, LLC
Submitted:
Sep 16, 2021
Job description
I'm an Executive Assistant, Organizational and Ops Development, and Warehouse Administrative Management. I was hired by CEO and CFO to assist in the management of a newly licensed, vertically-integrated cannabis company. I oversee all startup operations, personnel management, and state cannabis compliance for 4+ state-issued licenses, ranging from nursery cultivation to transportation. In my role as general manager, I have worked to create and implement company-wide processes and to develop systems that allow for the successful and safe bulk processing/distribution of cannabis products. I have recruited, conducted interviews, and hired more than 50 qualified team members, and have conducted more than five termination interviews. I have conducted company-wide trainings on warehouse safety, OSHA requirements, and workplace harassment. I facilitate a company-wide staff review, gaining valuable insight on the development of an intentional company culture. Upon recruiting and hiring supervisors and specialists to meet the demand of our growing business, I now oversee a middle management
team of five individuals, in addition to attending to the needs of company executives directly.
Why did you choose this program?
I chose to study philosophy for its breadth, and for its apparently infinite and insatiable access to human wisdom. I have always been intrigued with a desire to learn more about philosophical discourse, and its foundation in humanity. I am inspired and challenged by the level of discipline that is required for one to truly exceed in this field of study. One may be drawn to the methodical analysis of thought, such as I have been. I have been given the framework of the progress of philosophical analysis throughout history, and have learned to study so much more concisely through my education with the HSU Philosophy faculty.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
The philosophy program at Humboldt State University reaffirmed and set into practice many logical processes which have helped me in all areas of my life, but most specifically when problem-solving, troubleshooting, and managing a large or complex project.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I have enjoyed so many aspects of working with this faculty, but especially enjoyed our philosophy socials, symposiums, and the yearly honor of our department hosting a keynote speaker at HSU (thank you, Mary Bockover!). I also truly enjoyed having the opportunity to work one on one in an individualized research course with mentor and professor Loren Cannon in my final terms at HSU.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
I would encourage you to be prepared to expand your mind in many depths, and in varied ways which require you to challenge yourself and pre-existing frameworks of thought you may have. I recommend that those who go into the study of philosophy at HSU be prepared to take the time of introspection that is required with reading course materials. I urge prospective students to get comfortable engaging in a discussion-based environment, where thoughtful participation is particularly helpful in the process of discourse (in my experience).
While the reading coursework can be intensive, the overall atmosphere of the philosophy program at HSU is relaxed and inclusive. A very well-rounded course load, best when paired with other students who are excited about what they are taking in through lecture and reading.
Other comments?
Could not ask for a better faculty to study under. Because of the small class sizes, and small campus atmosphere, the professors always were so friendly, approachable, accessible for the most part. I found it very easy to develop strong mentorships with each and every professor I had.