As you pass by the 700s, you may catch a glimpse of Athletics Department secretary Marion McGuinness working in her office on the constantly changing athletic schedule. For the past 23 years, she has been the face behind student athletes’ schedules. She arranges buses, contacts officials, coordinates with coaches and more to help the Athletic Department run smoothly. But at the end of the year, she is officially leaving the district and retiring.
McGuinness remains organized by staying a week ahead of schedule. Because schedules can change so quickly, she starts her day by checking if anything has changed in any of the programs. On top of daily planning, she also addresses the many purchases of equipment and other various items. While this may seem hectic to the average person, McGuinness has mastered the ever-changing environment.
“When things are really moving, I enjoy that,” she said.
McGuinness appreciates being in an environment with young people and says it has been refreshing for her.
“It’s a great place, and it makes me want to get out of bed in the morning,” McGuinness said. “It’s the whole building, everybody that’s in the building, every department, from students and even up to administration.”
With one grandchild to love and more on the way, McGuinness said she’s excited to be involved with their lives after retirement. She is also looking forward to spending time gardening, swimming and going down to the shore.
“I’m hoping to get back to swimming,” McGuiness said. “I was a swimmer when I was in high school, and I am excited to revisit that.”
McGuinness said she hopes that students realize how lucky they are to be at West Essex with such an amazing group of people there to support them. In addition to that, she hopes students understand that they should not stress over the little things in life.
