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Priscilla Hernandez Omicron Alpha - St. Mary's University
Chief Deputy, Bexar County Clerk, Lucy Adame-Clark
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?
I knew I wanted to be a public servant, but I always thought it would be for the City of San Antonio like my parents. Instead, I ended up working for Bexar County in an entry level position in the County Clerk’s Office. The more I learned about the types of services the office provided to the community, the more I wanted to learn. I was promoted three times within the office within the span of five years, and it really pushed me to go back for my Master of Public Administration so that I could apply what I learned in the program to the office. I recently reached 10 years of service with the Bexar County Clerk’s Office.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?
My current boss, Bexar County Clerk Lucy Adame-Clark, has been a mentor for me in my professional career. She has been an active community leader even before she took office in 2019. Seeing her give back to the community outside of work really made me want to give back to the community as well. She’s been an individual who has always shared her knowledge with me and the rest of our staff. She especially empowers her staff to continue furthering their education and training.
What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?
I am a runner and like to run all distances, including half marathons. One year I was running a half marathon race and wanted to stop. I saw a person holding a sign that said ”Remember Your Why,” and it was the motivation that I needed to get me through the race. Ever since then, I ”remember my why” in everything that I commit myself to.
What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?
“Outliers” by Malcom Gladwell was recommended to me by one of my mentors at a time that I was experiencing imposter syndrome when applying for a promotion. This book really taught me to look at things in a different perspective and realize that I was just as worthy as anyone else to apply for that promotion.
How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?
I stay connected with my professional network by continuing to be involved in the community in leadership roles. I’m serving on my first board of directors as the Junior League of San Antonio Assistant to the President for the 2024-2025 league year. I am also a New Leaders Council 2022 Fellow, graduate of the Latina Leadership Institute Cohort 6 and currently in Leadership San Antonio – Class 48.
How have friendships helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
In my professional career, it has helped to have supportive friends along the way. Friends who understand my role in County Government and how work will always be a priority for me. I’ve had many friends and mentors who have given me advice along the way and who have guided me. One particular sister that has been there every step of the way has been one of my Delta Zeta little sisters, Natalie Trinidad. Ever since graduating, we talk at least once a week, and she has always been there for me. Every time a promotional opportunity was available in which I doubted applying, she always gave me her advice and support.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Running races, golfing and traveling are my favorite things to do outside of work.