Janet Sample serves as Membership Coordinator for the APA and has worked for the association in a wide range of capacities since 1981. She has two children and lots of four-legged grandchildren (dogs, cats, and horses).
What do you do at the APA?
I assist our members, and often the general public, with inquiries ranging from A–Z. Even after all this time, I can still be surprised by what I find in my inbox! I also manage our dues revenue by way of budgeting, billing, and processing; produce statistical and demographic data on the membership; produce the bi-annual published membership lists; produce the mailing lists for our print publications and email announcements; gather information for our memorial minutes section; and oh, let’s see, what else…
What is your favorite part of the job?
I have many favorite parts, but the one that stands out most is the incredible team of people that I work with in the national office every day. The capabilities, special talents, and unique gifts that each person brings to the table are pretty darn impressive. In addition to their work ethic, they’re really nice people to know. I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I enjoy with a bunch of people I admire and respect.
What are your goals and aspirations outside work?
I’ve been working full time consecutively for forty-three years, so my next goal is to purchase a nice comfy hammock and a really good book.
If you were a brick in the wall, which brick would you be?
I’d be the one that’s simple and sturdy, enjoying my purpose, located near the foundation, but high enough up so the sun could shine on me every day.
Where would you go in a time machine?
Back to 1845–1935. I would feel most comfortable there.
What three items would you take to a desert island other than food and water?
A machete, the Bible, and a box of pencils.
What’s your top tip, advice, or message for APA members reading this?
I’m not a philosopher, so I haven’t any advice to give. But I would like to thank our members and let them know that we are mindful of the care, participation, and loyalty they have invested into this organization—from its creation to the well-known and prestigious society that it is today. Their determination and effort to sustain this group is most evident when reading through old documents and early Proceedings issues. Pretty amazing.
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This section of the APA Blog is designed to get to know our colleagues a little better. We’re including profiles of APA members and staff that spotlight what captures their interest not only inside the office, but also outside of it. We’d love for you to be a part of it, so please contact us via the interview nomination form here.
Skye C. Cleary PhD MBA is a philosopher and author of How to Be Authentic: Simone de Beauvoir and the Quest for Fulfillment (2022), Existentialism and Romantic Love (2015) and co-editor of How to Live a Good Life (2020). She was a MacDowell Fellow (2021), awarded the 2021 Stanford Calderwood Fellowship, and won a New Philosopher magazine Writers’ Award (2017). She teaches at Columbia University and the City College of New York and is former Editor-in-Chief of the APA Blog.
