Honoring Rosemarie Hipolito's Retirement

This month, we bid a fond farewell to our longtime colleague and friend, Rosemarie Hipolito. As Crossroads President & CEO, Michelle M. Wilcox, reflects, “I have been so lucky to have worked side-by-side with Rosemarie for more than 30 years! I'm thrilled for her to be embarking on her next chapter and wish her good health and happiness. She is so deserving of it! We have relied on Rosemarie to remember so much of our history and the many people we have seen come through our doors over the years. Crossroads will not be the same without her!”

We sat down with Rosemarie, retiring Senior Executive Assistant, before she rides off into the sunset...

As you approach retirement at the end of the month, please reflect on your role and responsibilities at Crossroads over the years.

Thirty-one years ago, while I was a stay-at-home mom, finishing my degree, my husband got into a bad accident on his job site. This prompted me to go back to work through a temp agency. My first assignment was at Crossroads in a secretarial role supporting six directors. In addition, I filled in at the front desk, assisting clients. When my one-year temp contract was up, the Crossroads CEO at the time, Marion Avarista, hired me. During my tenure as the Executive Assistant, I’ve worked with four different CEOs and my role has given me the opportunity to work closely with our board and staff.

What has kept you at Crossroads for all these years?

Many things! Crossroads has a great mission, compassionate staff and grateful clients. Once, while I was covering our front desk, a young child came to me with his mom because he had blisters on his feet. I went and found powder for him and the next day he came back and offered me his popsicle. These types of interactions are what has kept me believing that the work we do is very important.

What inspires you to go to work each day?

I love my job and the team at Crossroads. We have a great staff and it’s a very pleasant place to work. After talking and talking about it, I finally had to make myself retire. My son recently asked, “How are you going to handle retirement since you’ve been helping people for so long?” I do think I’ll find ways to keep helping and I also look forward to traveling and learning new things. I may even take a pottery class.

How do you feel Crossroads impacts our community...those in need?

If you come to the Crossroads’ door, we’re going to help. We do what we do very well, and our door is always open. If we can’t help you, we can point you in the right direction.

What is your favorite spot in Rhode Island?

I love going to East Beach in Westerly. Another favorite destination is to ride my motorcycle to Narragansett and sit on the beach wall.

Any farewell words as you begin your next chapter?

I will really miss this place. It is in my heart and soul.