10 Trudeau Truths with Program Manager Doddie McShane
You know them as the educators, caregivers and leaders who work to keep everything running smoothly so that our clients at the Trudeau Memorial Center can have the best experience possible. But what are they like when they’re off the clock?
Here’s a chance to get a more personal look at the people who make up the team at Trudeau… 10 questions at a time.
Meet Doddie McShane, Program Manager and 43-year cornerstone at J. Arthur Trudeau Memorial Center! Inspired by Paul Sherlock, Doddie finds joy in the progress of both clients and staff over her remarkable tenure. She cherishes Christmas performances and chorus tryouts, and Sundays with her family. When not at the office, Doddie enjoys competitive card games with friends, gardening, and fishing. Her mini doodle Charlie keeps her company while she eagerly awaits visits from her daughter who lives in London. This cantaloupe-loving, behind-the-scenes employee proves that quiet dedication and long-term commitment can make a tremendous impact!
Read on to learn more about Doddie in this edition of 10 Trudeau Truths!
10 Trudeau Truths with Doddie McShane
1. What inspired you to pursue a career in human services?
Paul Sherlock
2. What do you find most rewarding about your job?
Progress/growth for the people supported AND the staff supporting them.
3. Can you describe a memorable moment or success story from your time working at Trudeau?
I have many. Christmas performances and our tryouts for chorus.
4. What’s something about people with disabilities (or working with them) that you wish other people knew or better understood?
Communication is necessary. “First seek to understand then to be understood” – Stephen Covey. I would apply the same principal to the staff that support the individuals.
5. What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend?
For years I have a group of friends that play cards together on Friday evenings. We take turns at each other’s houses. We don’t play for fun – we play to win. During covid lock down we switched to bocce at various school fields and were harassed by the police from time to time. I LOVE gardening and growing things, live theater and music. I’m a big philharmonic fan and I like freshwater fishing. Sunday is mandatory family day.
6. Favorite book, movie, and/or TV show.
The Power of Positive Thinking Favorite movie? Favorite TV show: Shark Tank
7. Do you have any pets?
I have a mini doodle named Charlie.
8. What’s your favorite food?
Cantaloupe
9. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
London, my daughter Angela is working there until February 2025, she’s been there for 2 years. Though she has come home a few times throughout the year. She will be home for a week July 1st. I still miss her dearly.
10. What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
That I do not like the limelight or fanfare. I prefer to quietly work behind the scenes.
Photo: Doddie McShane, Trudeau Program Manager, with son Ryan, his wife Erika, son Patrick, daughter Angela, dog Charlie, and granddaughter Taylor.
