Next month, Tricia Downs will be celebrating 6 years of service at The Franciscan School. As the Database & Admissions Coordinator, Mrs. Downs is a key figure in the journey for new families. “It's a privilege to be one of the first points of contact for families as they begin their journey with our school community,” she shares.
Before joining TFS, Mrs. Downs worked at St. Francis of Assisi as a Database and Website Coordinator. Previously, she worked as a Data Analyst. Mrs. Downs attended Davidson College, where she gained invaluable experiences, formed lifelong friendships, and immersed herself in Southern culture for the first time.
There are two main parts to Mrs. Downs’ role at TFS. First, she welcomes new families to TFS through the admissions process. Second, she ensures that the database and family portal are not only functional but also helpful to both faculty and families. Mrs. Downs shares that both of these roles are equally rewarding and meaningful.
Given these roles, no two days are the same. Her job involves managing various aspects of the database, including admissions, enrollment, scheduling, grade books, report cards, student/staff accounts, the student/family portal, and more. This can look like fielding calls, troubleshooting, and problem-solving. As a part-time staff member, Mrs. Downs works to prioritize and manage her time efficiently.
Mrs. Downs deeply values her work and the colleagues she shares it with. Outside of school, her greatest joy comes from family. She and her husband are blessed with three wonderful daughters, a great son-in-law, and, as of last November, an exceptional grandson who has quickly become the light of her life. She has also spent the last 14 years volunteering at St. Francis of Assisi.
Mrs. Downs finds it very meaningful to work in a faith-filled community alongside so many talented people. “At TFS, we believe in the God-given potential of every child. Every day, we work together to help students reach that potential. I’m happy to support this mission and contribute with the gifts I’ve been given.”