More Than A Job: Dee’s 33-Year Journey
June 26, 2026
When Dee joined Sun Van in 1993, she thought it would be a temporary job. More than three decades later, she’s retiring after 33 years of service with Sun Van, leaving a legacy of compassion, dedication and genuine care.
Today, Dee serves as an Administrative Operations Supervisor, overseeing scheduling, payroll, shift bids, vacation bids, and time-off request for more than 200 operators. It’s a role that requires precision and patience, ensuring all operators are paid correctly and have the support they need every day.
But this wasn’t the start of her career at Sun Van.
Dee started as a part-time operator after being encouraged by her best friend to apply. She was hired on the spot. Even though she was only working a few hours each day and earning about five or six dollars an hour, she chose to stay. That decision changed the course of her life.
After about a year as an operator, she became an Operations Supervisor, the first Hispanic woman to hold that title. According to Dee, they wanted someone who was relatable to the other women drivers. This was one of the many proud moments for her.
A short time later, she was assigned to Dispatch, but quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit for her. Rather than losing a valuable employee leadership recognized her strengths and created the Administrative Operations Supervisor position specifically for her. More than 32 years later, she’s still serving in that role.
If you ask Dee why she stayed for so long, her answer is simple: “I’m a people person, and I like to help people.”
That mindset shaped her entire career. Having watched both her brother and mom rely on Sun Van, she understood the importance of paratransit for the community. Just as importantly, she never forgot what it was like to be a driver.
Whether helping someone resolve a payroll issue, answering scheduling questions or simply listening after a difficult day, Dee treated everyone with empathy and respect. One special thing she does is always making sure drivers have had a meal and some water. If they couldn’t afford a meal for that day, she’d share whatever she had in her office.
Although Dee rarely took time off, she doesn’t regret the commitment she gave to her work.
“I enjoy coming to work,” she says with a smile. “Otherwise I wouldn’t be here.”
Now as retirement approaches, she’s training the next generation to carry on her work while also preparing herself for her new route after many early mornings. Her new routine will consists of spending time with her grandkids and catching up on projects she’s been meaning to start.
When asked what advice she’d give someone considering a career at Sun Van, her answer is: “If you like helping people, this is a good place to be.”
She also encourages future employees to remember where they are from, treat others with kindness, and always lead with respect.
After 33 years, Dee leaves behind more than an impressive career. She leaves a lasting example of what it means to serve the paratransit community behind-the-scenes with heart.
Just like Dee, a career with Sun Van isn’t simply about the job you do; it’s about the difference you make. Every day is an opportunity to support your coworkers, serve the community, and build a career that leaves a lasting impact on the lives of others.
If you’re ready to build a career that truly matters, we’d love to have you aboard. To view our open positions visit Suntran.com/opportunities.