Greater Jackson Business Publisher recently talked with Lorraine Fagan, a woman who had been with the SAME company since the age of 18. In this era of constant turnover, Ms. Fagan has been a fixture with Singleton Architects, one of the Metro’s premier architecture firms. She brings to her job professionalism, cheerfulness, efficiency…and, of course, staying power! We hope you enjoy her amazing story in this exclusive Q&A.

GJB: Lorraine, how long have you worked for Larry Singleton and Singleton Architects? And how old were you when you started?

Fagan: I’ve been working with Larry since April, 1984. At the time, the firm was the partnership of Craig, Simmons, Singleton Architects. It just so happened that my first day of work was also my 18th birthday. When I came in for my job interview, the partners didn’t ask any specifics about my age or education, assuming I’d just graduated from college. So when I told them on my first day of work that I was 18 years old that day, they were a little taken aback, to say the least.

GJB: Do you realize how rare it is to be in your position, with the same company, for so long? To what do you attribute your lengthy tenure?

Fagan: Actually, I do realize how unique it is to stay with one employer for such a long time, especially in this day and age. I think the most important factor in my sticking around for so long is that Larry and the past partners have always…and I mean always…treated me with the utmost respect and appreciation. Our office staff has changed many times over the years, but this has always been a fun and interesting place to work. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to work along side some of the nicest and most talented people in this business. Since day one, I’ve felt that we are more like a family than simply co-workers.

GJB: What was your “official” title when you first started? What is it now?

Fagan: I believe my job title back when I started was “Administrative Assistant..” I remember thinking how important it sounded! But, pretty much I just made coffee, answered the phone, and typed specs on an enormous and cantankerous IBM Selectric typewriter. My job title for about the last 22-23 years has been “Office Manager”, but I still prefer to use the comfortable, though much maligned term “Secretary.” It’s what I am, and I think I’m pretty good at it, so I find no shame in that title.

GJB: Being with an architecture firm for so long have you picked up any knowledge of the profession? Could you ever see yourself as an architect?!

Fagan: I’m sure I’ve picked up some technical knowledge here and there over the years. I suppose that’s unavoidable. But, I probably only know enough to be dangerous, as they say. I couldn’t see myself being an Architect, no. I admire what they do immensely, but I simply don’t have the creative vision that seems so inherent in Architects and Designers. I’m all about the paperwork.

GJB: Honestly—when you first came to work for the firm, how long did you think you would stay? What were your goals then—and what are they now?

Fagan: When I interviewed for the job, I intended for it to BE my job. I didn’t look at it as a stepping stone on the way to bigger and better things. I was looking for a steady job doing secretarial work for nice people. Which is exactly what I got. I enjoyed it then, and I enjoy it now. My goal is to continue doing that until it’s time to quit. Larry and I made an agreement years ago that “when one of us goes, we both go”; so, we plan to just stick together until we’re finished. After that….who knows?

GJB: Since you’ve been with Singleton for so long, does it feel like a family to you? In what ways?

Fagan: Oh, absolutely. These people are my other family. We spend a tremendous amount of time together, so we know a lot about one another. We all know each other’s spouses and families, and we do try to keep up with what’s going on with everyone. I’m a talker, so these poor guys probably know much more than they ever wanted to know about me and my family. We like to do office birthday lunches as often as possible, and, of course, we all get together with our spouses for a Christmas dinner every year.

GJB: Why do you think more women are not in your position? There is so much turnover these days and not much loyalty: Why do you think that is and why HAVE you stayed so loyal?

Fagan: I think many people…usually women, in my particular line of work…leave jobs because they are looking to improve their circumstances. That typically means more money, better benefits, or a less stressful working environment. I’m already satisfied with those aspects of my job, so I haven’t had to look elsewhere. Other women are possibly looking for promotion or more responsibility, which is perfectly understandable. I’m content with my status and responsibilities here, and feel that I make an important contribution to this business, so I haven’t felt the need to look elsewhere. I was taught from a very young age that being faithful and responsible is not an option, so I tend to look very carefully at my motives for considering any kind of change. Larry Singleton has been incredibly generous and kind to me for the past nearly 26 years, and so few people are able to say that about their boss. I feel blessed.

GJB: Finally…are you going to RETIRE at Singleton Architects?!

Fagan: That’s a good question! My husband and I have graduated one child from college, but still have one to go! Our son graduated from MSU last Spring, and our daughter will be starting college this Fall. So, I’m sure I’ll be a working mom for a few more years yet. But, hopefully, I’ll be here with this great group of guys until I’m ready to take a rest!