Jeff Ransom: The Heartbeat of The Hickman for 35 Years
December 20, 2024
Jeff Ransom celebrated 35 years at The Hickman in September, a milestone that reflects his dedication and the unique perspective his long tenure has granted him. Jeff has seen his role evolve throughout his journey, while The Hickman’s resident-focused culture has remained steadfast.
There’s no doubt about it – Jeff is a jack of all trades regarding his role at The Hickman. After serving in the military for six years as a correctional officer in Texas and Germany, he relocated to West Chester with his wife. “I was walking by The Hickman one day, decided to apply to work here, and the rest is history,” he says. Jeff began as overnight security, though he now shares how he’s “had a hand in almost every department at one time or another,” from working the day shift at the reception desk to working in accounts payable/receivable. At one time, he was the face behind The Hickman’s newsletter, Directions, designing and typesetting it, and The Hickman’s in-house newsletter. At another, he was even involved in planning The Hickman’s annual giving event. “The question I got a lot was, ‘Hey Jeff, can you do this?’ and the answer was always, ‘Yes!’”
These days, Jeff still wears many hats as he serves as Security Supervisor. Aside from ensuring the safety and security of residents and staff at The Hickman, he is the Information and Technology liaison, heads the IT help desk, manages the telephone and call bell systems, maintains data security, and oversees the concierge team—the friendly faces who greet you as you arrive at The Hickman.
35 years is a dedicated commitment to a place of employment. Perhaps that’s because, for Jeff, it’s always felt like more than just a place to work. “One of my first interactions here was with a resident who greeted me warmly and shared that she was happy I’m here.” From then on, the residents have been—and continue to be—Jeff’s favorite thing about working at The Hickman. It’s also the primary concern of The Hickman leadership, which Jeff points out has stayed the same regardless of any leadership changes over the 35 years he’s worked here. Herein lies the unique perspective that only Jeff, having been the longest-employed staff at The Hickman, can offer. “No matter who our director has been at any point in time, the mission of The Hickman has stayed the same,” Jeff explains. “Each person in leadership brings even more to the mission and makes it better. It’s always been a great place to work, but being in a place for so long and seeing the core mission stay constant … that’s huge.”
Jeff loves ensuring the residents feel safe and seeing family members rest assured they made the right decision for their loved ones. We at The Hickman, both residents and fellow staff, are grateful for his many years of service making The Hickman feel like home.
