Beginning her career in the field of aging in 1999 as a social worker/case manager, Aubert held many positions with Valley Area Agency on Aging (VAAA) before being promoted to President/CEO in 2018. The VAAA “provides answers, action and advocacy on care for the elderly and disabled adults of Genesee, Lapeer and Shiawassee Counties by enhancing lives, empowering choice, sustaining independence and supporting caregivers and families.”
A Flint native, Aubert not only loves working with the aging population, but helping the elderly also has personal meaning to her as she was raised by her grandparents. She graciously agreed to share a few other personal details with MCM readers.
1. What was your very first job?
When I was 16, I worked at Hardee’s inside the Genesee Valley Mall.
2. Who is your hero?
My grandmother took me in as a young child and literally saved my life. She is my hero and I am the person I am today because of her. She taught me old school values, manners and how to behave like a lady. She also instilled strength, courage, independence and wisdom. She taught me there is a time to lead and a time to follow – both are needed to attain goals. She set a fire in me to learn from my elders and is the reason I have a passion for seniors. She has transitioned on but not a day goes by that I don’t think of her, or something she said or taught me.
3. What three words describe you best?
Empathetic, Passionate, Prepared
4. Would you rather cook or order in?
ORDER IN! Anyone who is reading this and knows me is laughing right now. My husband, Terrell, is the chef in the family; I am the cleaner and organizer.
5. What’s the next place on your travel Bucket List and why?
Terrell and I love to travel – it’s one of our hobbies. We have a Facebook page called “Through Our Eyes” that spotlights affordable travel and allows people to share travel tips, stories and pictures. It was my dream to visit Egypt, which we did in 2019; now, we just go where the wind takes us. My husband wants to take our children and grandchildren to Kenya, so I would say that is next on the Bucket List.
6. What is your most prized possession and why?
My home – it is where my family gathers. The style is a reflection of me. It is where those who are in my heart come to laugh, cry and celebrate with me. It is my sanctuary and place of peace.
7. What’s one work-related thing you want to accomplish in the next year?
While keeping my team and the people we serve safe through the pandemic, I want to focus on our metrics. For the last 3.5 years, VAAA has been in the Top 3 statewide regarding quality. The VAAA team is amazing, and we all are always eager to learn and excel in service delivery. Focusing on metrics will help to spotlight and continue providing high-quality services and programs.
Photo courtesy of Rynell Walker Photography
