Susan Norby refers to her MPHA co-workers as her second family. And she really means it.

Susan has worked in the agency’s Human Resources department for three decades, working alongside some employees the entire time. She has supported her co-workers through health crises, major life changes, and career advancements. And, as a four-time cancer survivor, those same co-workers have seen Susan through some of her harder days, too.

“It’s not just a job to me. It means a lot more to me than just a paycheck,” said Susan Norby, MPHA’s Human Resources Manager. “I really love this place. It’s been a big part of my life.”

When Susan left the private sector for a secretarial role in MPHA’s Human Resources department in 1993, she was happy to find a more diverse workforce at the agency.

“It didn’t take me long to figure out I didn’t want to go back to a for-profit company,” said Susan. “It is so important the work we do. Even though I don’t regularly interact with tenants or participants, I go home at night and know we—as an agency—are putting a roof over people’s heads and providing them a safe place to call home.”

Susan has led new team member orientation, participated in numerous union negotiations, even run the department for 14 years—all the while supporting team members. And through it all, she has let empathy lead her work.

“It’s always been my goal to have someone leave my office feeling better than when they came in,” said Susan.

Susan has enjoyed getting to know team members over the years.

“I’ve had some great mentors here and learned so much. I have really grown, not only in my HR knowledge but grown as a person. And, I would not have stuck around if I didn’t really enjoy what I do and who I work with,” said Susan.

Despite her retirement from working with MPHA coming up in April, she is sure that won’t be the end of her interactions with the agency as she will continue to support the work through volunteering at events. Susan is invested in seeing MPHA, and its staff, continue to innovate and achieve new milestones.

“I want to see the HR department and the agency continue to thrive.”